Contrary to popular opinion, smoky eyes are not limited to dramatic looks or nighttime makeup. A subtle smoky eye look can be incredibly alluring and works well for work or other daytime events. More importantly, whether you’re carrying off smoky eyes for a classy dinner or dusk-till-dawn party, you should get your smoky eye look done right.

Just because it’s a smudgy, blended look doesn’t mean you don’t need some skill in creating this sexy look! Here are five smoky eye makeup tips to help you get beautifully sultry, smoky eyes.

Tip 1: Daytime smoky eyes – shades of light

As far as eye makeup tips go, this has got to be the simplest. Instead of using dark shades, use light ones for a daytime smoky eye look. Daytime smoky eyes are fantastic for bringing out smaller eyes, rather than closing them in with bold lines.

• Shade up to the brow bone with a translucent, pearl pastel shadow
• Use a slightly darker shade to add depth to the crease of your lids and  gradient near the lash line
• Line your eyes with a dark, earth-toned pearl liner for a soft-focus look

Etude House Line Nuance Duo – matching colors of pearly eyeshadow and smoky eyeliner in one pencil.

Tip 2: Getting kohl

Unless you’re permanently going for the Taylor Momsen look at a Halloween party, learn how to get smoky eyes with Kohl properly – it’s not as easy to handle as it seems. Just like charcoal, Kohl smudges well but is virtually impossible to rub away. For beginners, smudge Kohl gently with a piece of tissue paper instead of a smudging brush. This will give a more even look, prevent further accidental smudging, and reduce the possibility of odd lines on your eyelids.

Make Up For Ever Kohl Pencil – smudges beautifully without being rough on your skin.

Tip 3: Draw the line

With these makeup tips I have to emphasize, once again, that smoky eyes are NOT always bold/dramatic/overdone. I personally recommend using a soft pencil or crayon eyeliner that creates a more, well, smoky line. You can draw a thicker line if you like.

Tip 4: Blend, blend, blend

The sexiest smoky eyes are always smooth and well-blended to produce a beautiful gradient, be it for a daytime or nighttime look. Don’t just layer on the different colors of eyeshadow and eyeliner – apply a tad more eyeshadow for blending and use your ring finger instead of a blending brush for a softer look.

Tip 5: Don’t forget the eyelashes

Luscious lashes are just as important as your eyeliner and eyeshadow when it comes to creating a smoky eye look. You’ll want to add maximum volume and curl to your eyelashes to make them stand out. Instead of the usual black mascara, try a color matching your eyeliner or darkest eyeshadow shade.

The top-rated Yves Saint Laurent Mascara Volume Effet Faux Cils comes a variety of colors for your picking!

Now that you’ve got your essential smoky eye makeup tips, don’t forget to complete your mesmerizing smoky eyes with the right makeup! Since your eyes are the main feature, your lips and cheeks should take a backseat, complementing your beautiful smoky eyes and drawing attention to them.

Do you have any smoky eye makeup tips of your own? Do share them below :)