How to Create a Sheer Smoky Eye

The sheer smoky eye, also known as the “lived-in” smoky eye, is one of the latest eye makeup trends to surface in the beauty scene. While we love a classic smoky eye, it tends to be too bold for daily wear. Luckily, this sheer smoky eye makeup look provides the definition we know and love while being totally fit for everyday wear. Learn how to create it in this step-by-step eye makeup tutorial.

HOW TO CREATE A SHEER SMOKY EYE

Wondering how to create this wearable smoky eye? Look no further! Read below for the details.

Step #1: Prime your eye

Just as with any eye makeup look, it’s important to start by applying an eye shadow primer. A makeup primer prepares the skin for your makeup application by creating a smooth surface and boosting your makeup’s lifespan.

Step #2: Grab your liner

Unlike other eye makeup looks, you want to start by applying an eyeliner along your upper lash line. Opt for one with a super-blendable formula that can easily be smudged for this lived-in look. Try the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Never Fail Eyeliner, which has a crème formula and a built-in smudger. After applying the eyeliner, gently smudge is out towards the middle of your eyelid to create a soft, faded look and get rid of any harsh lines.

Step #3: Apply your eye shadow

Use a soft, warm brown eye shadow that’s only a shade or two darker than your skin to coat your eyelid. Try the L’Oréal Paris Colour Riche Monos Eye Shadow in Matte it Up. Apply it to your lid, blending it with the smudged liner to create a smudged out, sheer look. Apply this same eye shadow along your lower lash line, making sure to gently drag it out to get the sheer effect you want.

Step #4: Lengthen your lashes

Finish the eye makeup look by coating your lashes in your favorite mascara. To keep with the theme of this sheer, more natural-looking smoky eye, opt for a brown mascara rather than a black. Apply a few coats of the L’Oréal Paris Voluminous Lash Paradise Washable Mascara in Black Brown.

HOW TO FINISH THE LOOK

Want to learn how to complete your sheer smoky eye makeup look? Here’s how:

Step #1: Prime your face

Just like your eyes, you want to prime your face before applying any face makeup to ensure you achieve a flawless application. Use the L’Oréal Paris True Match™ Lumi Glotion Natural Glow Enhancer for a natural, all-over glow.

Step #2: Use a sheer foundation

To keep with the lived-in style of the eye makeup look, ditch your full coverage foundation and use one with sheer coverage instead. This will leave you with a more natural-looking complexion. Use a cushion foundation for fresh, luminous coverage.

Step #3: Add a natural flush

Add some color to the apples of your cheeks by applying a blush color that mimics your natural flush. Try the L’Oréal Paris Paradise Enchanted Fruit-Scented Blush Makeup in Just Curious for a subtle pop of peach.

Step #4: …And a natural glow

To enhance your luminous skin even more, use a highlighter to add some natural-looking radiance to your complexion. Apply the L'Oréal Paris True Match™ Lumi Glow Amour Glow Boosting Drops to your cheekbones, cupid’s bow, below the arch of your eyebrows, and the center of your chin.

Step #5: Line your waterline

To open and brighten the look of your eyes, apply a nude eyeliner to your waterline. Try the L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Last Waterproof Pencil Eyeliner in Nude.

Step #6: Grab your gloss

Finish the makeup look by coating your lips with a clear or neutral-colored lip gloss like the L’Oréal Paris Infallible 8 HR Le Gloss in Petal.

Interested in another sheer eye makeup look you can try? Head over to our article, How to Rock a Glossy Eye Makeup Look.