Let's get smoky!

The evenings might be getting lighter, but this summer it's dark eyes that everyone’s going for!

Instead of the pastel shades we usually see this time of year, darker colours have been dominating Hollywood. The smoky eye-shadow effect is one that is usually popular in the winter months, but the sultry look has become the unlikely celebrity must have make-up trend for this season.

If done right smoky eyes can be extremely sexy, but if done wrong you’ll look more boozy bender than red carpet gorgeous. With celebrities such as Victoria Beckham and Mila Kunis being fans of the look, it’s about time you give it a try. Here’s how to make yours work.

1.       Smoky eyes don’t necessarily have to mean black. If you’re worried a grey or black shade is a bit too harsh, there are loads of other colours to choose from. It’s all about blending two colours together, so just make sure you have two shades of the same colour but one is slightly lighter. Plums, khakis, pinks and blues can all look beautiful as well, providing they are applied correctly.

2.       For those of you new to this look, dusting a taupe shade over the lids of your eye and simply outlining your eye with a black kohl pencil is an alternative to the classic smoky eye trend. The use of an eye pencil can completely transform the shape of your eye, creating a definition that’s not too overpowering.

3.       Smoky eyes simply do not work without thick, glossy lashes. This can work by smothering them in tons of mascara, but the easiest way of creating extra volume is by investing in a quality pair of fake eyelashes. It’s important to select a pair that is not too thick so that they still look natural. And stick to just one pair, ‘The only way is Essex’ look is not one to be copied.

4.       The lighter shade should be applied all the way up to the brow, but never do this with the dark. Keep it subtle by only dusting the shade in the outer corners of your eye and blending it with the light when they both meet to avoid it looking too blocky.

5.       If you’re really brave, lightly brush a soft grey shadow along the lower lashes. This will draw attention straight to your eyes, but only give it a go if you have a really steady hand.