The smouldering, sultry, smokey eye look has been a staple in modern makeup for a while now. But it’s not for everyone. Some people’s skin tone just can’t carry that amount of dark pigment around the eyes. However, there are alternatives. 

Try rocking a smokey eye in colours other than black or grey. If you’re afraid there may be too much colour - keep the rest of the face very simple: a good coverage of foundation to hide imperfections; a simple nude lip; and barely-there blush. Finally add some shimmer in the form of a bronzer to keep it looking dewy.

Most of you will have tried the smokey eye but if you haven’t, you can find step-by-step instructions here. 

Blue

Great with blue or brown eyes, Keira Knightly's royal blue smokey eye is striking without looking gothic. Another variation on this is to try ice blues and silver.

Green

J-lo looks awesome with this taupey-green smokey eye, it compliments her olive skin beautifully. So if you have hazel peepers, don’t be afraid to give this look a go.

Gold

Scarlett Johansson has toned down the classic smokey eye by using a brown base, then opening up her eyes by dabbing gold eye shadow in the inner corners. This luxuriant and exotic twist helps pale skinned beauties wear this look without weighing down the whole face with too much kohl.

Purple

Rita Ora’s platinum blonde locks and emerald green dress are finished off by a continuation of the jewel-toned palette. Her violet smokey eye lifts her face and matches the intensity of the other colours in her outfit. 

Metallics

Emma Watson really takes it up a notch with this special-occasion-only glittery smokey eye. Loose eye dusts such as those available from Napoleon Perdis, can be made into cream eyeshadows with The Makeup Store’s Blend and Fix, $25. Stilla also produces Magnificent Metals Foil Finish Eye Shadows, which come with a primer that adheres the metallic shadow to the skin. Check out Chloe Morello’s video tutorial below for more instruction on colourful smokey eye looks: “Purple Smokey Wing with Party Sparkles”.

Let your imagination run wild with these colourful looks: silver; gold; ruby; emerald or sapphire. This dramatic look will have heads turning.

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