Last updated: March 2026
What Is Smokey Eye?
A smokey eye is a classic eyeshadow technique that uses blended dark shades around the eyes to create a dramatic, smoldering, and diffused effect.
The smokey eye is one of the most universally recognized makeup looks, rooted in old Hollywood glamour and 1920s flapper culture. The technique involves applying darker eyeshadow shades—traditionally blacks, grays, or deep browns—to the lid and blending them outward and upward through the crease for a gradient effect with no harsh lines. Modern smokey eyes have evolved far beyond black; burgundy, navy, olive, plum, and bronze variations are widely popular. The key to a successful smokey eye is blending—colors should melt into each other seamlessly. It's a staple for evening events, editorial shoots, and any occasion calling for drama.
Tips
- Always start with a transition shade in the crease before building with darker colors—this prevents harsh lines.
- Use a pencil brush or smudge brush to smoke out liner along the lash line for a cohesive, lived-in effect.
- Apply eyeshadow primer before starting so dark pigments blend smoothly and don't become patchy.
- Balance a dark smokey eye with a nude or subtle lip to avoid an overly heavy look.
See it in action
Tutorials that use or demonstrate this technique:
Smokey Eye Makeup Tutorial
20 min
Burgundy Smokey Eye Tutorial
25 min
Date Night Makeup Look
15 min
Prom Makeup Tutorial
35 min
Old Hollywood Glam Makeup Tutorial
25 min
90s Grunge Makeup Tutorial
20 min