Guest Author - Blake Rave
There’s an old saying, “where there’s smoke, there’s fire” and sometimes you really want to light a fire! I’m not talking about that pile of laundry at home or the stack of papers on your desk, but once in awhile it’s nice to draw positive attention to yourself and to really be noticed. This smoldering eyeshadow look will certainly spark some interest.
This technique adds depth and dimension to the eyes and creates a fuller looking lash line.
1. Prep the Eyes (Optional but recommended)
Using an eyeshadow base or primer will help create a smooth, even canvas. This can also help to prevent fading, creasing and allow your eyeshadow to stay on longer. Think about building a house, the foundation always gets laid first. By taking this step, you are on your way to creating a more polished, sophisticated look.
*Application Method: Press the flat side of your brush into the product of your choice. There should be a visible layer of product on the bristles. Next, press the brush onto the outer corner of the eyelid. Smooth the primer across the lid to inner corner of the eye using short strokes or a pumping motion. Continue by blending up to the crease and to the brow bone. A thin line can also be created underneath the bottom lash line if desired. Repeat on the opposite eye.
2. Shade the Eyes
Do this with varying tones of eyeshadow. This look traditionally calls for both a dark color and a light color, but of course, there are always variations and exceptions. For instance, when working with black eyeshadow, I typically like to first apply a color that is somewhat nude in that area where the black will go. By applying a color that is darker than the natural skin tone and lighter than black, we create depth and dimension. This also proves to be useful as an “outline” for the area where you want your black to go. Very dark colors can be hard to blend away or erase when a mistake is made.
*Application Method: Press your shadow brush into the eyeshadow and then press the shadow onto the eyelid. Lightly tap or shake the brush before applying and keep the brush in contact with the eyelid as much as possible to avoid shadow sprinkles under the eye. Apply the light color to the inside corner of the eye and the dark color to the outside corner, then blend the two colors together For best results, use a separate brush for each color.
When applying the darker color, start on the outside corner and blend up and in a circular motion, creating a half-moon shape that goes above and beyond the crease of the eye. The darker color can then be used in the crease of the eye and underneath the eye on the lower lash line.
3. Line the Eyes
Using a soft pencil eyeliner in the color of your choice, cover the lower “wet” line. Both the top and the bottom lash lines can be lined over with a pencil, liquid or gel as well or they can be left with the eyeshadow alone. Use an angle brush or similar tool to blend and smudge under the eye.
*Application Method: Hold the bottom lid down and apply pencil to area between the lashes and the eyeball - this is the wet line. Do not use powder on this area. With a smudging or blending tool, soften the color under the eye with short strokes working from outside to inside and back out.
4. Finish the Look
Follow your inspiration. A dramatic eye doesn‘t necessarily need a lot to go with it. Consider the occasion and your attire when making your finishing touches.
Draw attention. Be adventurous. Experiment with different color variations. A smoky eye is the perfect way to heat things up, so remember: where there’s smoke, there’s fire!
