The sexiest and no fail way to achieve evening glam is with a classic smoky eye (beauties Jennifer Lopez and Katharine McPhee can attest to this). Standard smoldering eye looks consist of pewter or black shadow, smudgy eyeliner, and tons of mascara. The effect is high drama - so don't be afraid to play! Here are 5 simple steps and products to achieve that sultry, sex kitten look.
#1 Primer: Urban Decay Primer Potion
The unsexiest thing is mascara and liner running down your face, so prevent such catastrophes with a heavy duty primer. I'm a huge fan of Urban Decay's, which gives a smooth application and extends the life of eyeshadows. Use primer sparingly (one swipe is enough) to ensure fresh, sultry eyes all day (and night).
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#2 Shadow: Tarte Peep Show Smokey Eye Palette
Traditional smoky eyes are done in hues of black and pewter, but you can also go colorful with rich purples, greens, or bronzes. Tarte's palette is great for beginners - it has everything you need to achieve the look in one sleek palette. To begin, sweep a medium color on the lid, then use a darker shade on your crease (I like black). Lastly, highlight browbones with a light shimmery nude. The essential to a smoky eye is to blend, blend, blend - so use a clean brush to obstruct any harsh lines.
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#3 Eyeliner: Benefit Cosmetics BADgal
Get as close to the lashline as possible, gently dotting with a soft black eyeliner. BADgal is perfect for this - it leaves a nice dramatic line that is also smudgeable. After you're done lining the top, you may want to draw a thin line on your lower lashes for a smokier effect. After, use a Q Tip or smudge brush to soften the look. As a personal preference I also line both the top and bottom of my waterline (inside of lashes) for extra definition. Where In The Hive: bookmark/210119
#4 Eyelash Curler: Shu Uemura Curler
Prep eyes for mascara with an eyelash curler. My ultimate fave is Shu Uemura's, which works for a variety of eye shapes and gives lashes that perfect curl. As a trick, I blast mine under a hair dryer for a few seconds (use a finger to heat test) before using. Think of it as a curling iron for lashes - the effect is fabulous!
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#5 Volumizing Mascara: DiorShow Mascara
Now that lashes are nicely curled, the last step is a volumizing mascara. I recommend DiorShow for a smoldering "faux" effect. Apply two thin coats on top and one on the bottom (optional) for a dramatic, sultry look. Finish off with a bronze or pale blush, nude lips, and voila! You're ready to hit the town!
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