Nail the perennial party look in four simple steps
WORDS: STEPHANIE MAYLOR. PHOTOS: URBANLIP.COM/IAIN PHILPOTT, GETTY
1 Always prep the lids
You can use primer to create a smooth canvas and prevent creasing, or apply concealer across the lid and around the eye, which will also help to even out any discolouration on the eyelids. As a general rule, it’s best to stick to a maximum of three shadows and a liner. Start by applying a pale shade across the whole eye, up to the brow bone in bone, ivory or even something light and shimmery.
2 Map with eyeliner
Trace a black gel eyeliner or kohl pencil along the upper lash line, hugging the eyelashes as tightly as possible. Use a soft brush to buff it out slightly, creating a sooty, slightly hazy lash line.
3 Smoke it out
Over this line, layer a dark eyeshadow. Use it to shade in the socket and outer corner of the eye, creating a kind of backwards ‘C’ shape. Amplify the smoky effect by taking your eyeshadow under the lower lash line, stopping halfway across. Blending is key, so buff everything out with a fluffy eyeshadow brush to fuse it together.
For an extra bit of Christmas magic, dab a light sparkling eyeshadow in the very centre of your eyelid.
4 Add finishing touches
Once you’re happy, apply your finishing touches. For a sharp, cat-eye effect, go in with liquid liner, winging up and out. Otherwise, finish the look with a few coats of mascara. Concentrating your mascara on the outside of each eye will cre
