Smoky eye

So many beauty crimes have been committed in pursuit of the smoky eye. Big, scary black rings, gloopy thick eyeliner, too much of everything -  and yet still it’s the party look most of us go for.

I asked Louise Mills, makeup director for The Body Shop, for her expert tips to help us get it right this season.

A smoky eye generally means concentrating darker colours along the lash line and outer corner of the eye, “smoking” it up and out towards the outer crease of the eye and smudging beneath the eyes as well.

It’s important to pair light colours with rich, dark tones and make sure you shape it to suit your eyes. Take your time when creating this look. Don’t go too dark – a smoky eye doesn’t have to be black and heavy. Remember, blending is a must to achieve this style.

To make it easy, The Body Shop has put out a limited edition 4-Step Smoky Eyes Palette in Golden Brown with everything you need to get the look.

First, apply the Warm White shade as a base colour all over the eyelid and up to the crease of the eye. This is important, as you want your colour to hold all night long. It will also help with blending.

Then apply Chocolate Brown, working it into your lashes and upwards, concentrating on the outer corner of your eyes. Avoid applying heavy colour on the inner corner of your eyes, as this will make them appear smaller.

Sweep the same colour along the lower lash line. Use a brush to blend well, making sure there are no harsh lines.

At this stage you can continue adding the same colour and blend until it’s dark enough for your liking, or use an even darker shade – Dark Brown is perfect. Softly define the crease of the eye, once again concentrating on the outer part of the eye.

Line the upper lash line with the Brown Eye Definer and smudge it in. To really open up the eyes, curl your lashes and then load them with mascara.

Get some variety by adding colour. Smoky eyes don’t always have to be made using brown, greys or blacks. Try using dark greens, purples or deep blues, or be bold and use a bright blue mascara instead of the usual black.

Silvers and golds are great for party time. Dust some shimmer over the top for extra dazzle.

Team smoky eyes with nude lips, as you don’t want to look overdone. If you’re worried about your eye shadow getting messy, apply your foundation after you do your eyes so you don’t have to fix any smudges.

• Australis The Big Smoke IntensifEye Wet/Dry Eyeshadow.
• Bobbi Brown Dual Ended Eyeliner in Caviar and Gold.
• Australis Eye Pencils in Blackest Black and Silver Service
• Revlon CustomEyes Shadow and Liner in Smoky Sexy
• Maybelline New York Expert Wear Eye Shadow in Charcoal Smoke.
• Maybelline New York The Falsies Volum’ Express Black Drama Mascara
• Bobbi Brown Onyx and Silver Eye Paint Palette