The Smokey Eye Comeback: Mastering the Moody-Glam Look for Spring-Summer 2025

The return of the smokey eye was not something we'd anticipated, especially not as a trend forecast for spring-summer 2025. Alas, the beauty gods have spoken, and make-up artists backstage at the most recent fashion weeks have been snapped applying the moody-glam look to their models. Folks, the time has come to dust off those Bobbi Brown shadow sticks and MAC paint pots of lore.

Unlock the Secrets to Achieving the Perfect Smokey Eye

Rediscovering the Art of Smokey Eye Makeup

With almost a decade since the last smokey eye craze, many of us may have forgotten the nuances of blending dark to light eyeshadows. However, the resurgence of this iconic look presents an opportunity to remaster the technique and embrace the sultry, smoldering gaze it bestows. Makeup artist Hollie Ellis, from the renowned Bobbi Brown brand, shares her expert insights on navigating the smokey eye's comeback and achieving flawless results.

The Signature Smokey Eye: A Timeless Technique

According to Ellis, the smokey eye needn't be overly complicated. With the right products and a few key steps, you can recreate the moody-glam look with ease. One of her top recommendations is the Bobbi Brown long-wear shadow stick, which boasts a creamy formula and a range of versatile shades. "They're not only easier to blend and create endless eye makeup looks [with] but also help the makeup to last up to 24 hours," she explains.

Mastering the Smokey Eye in 5 Simple Steps

Ellis shares her step-by-step guide to achieving the perfect smokey eye:1. Begin with a neutral shade and apply it all over the eyelid and up to the brow bone. This serves as a clean slate, eliminating any redness.2. Sweep and press a medium shade onto the eyelid, diffusing the edges just above the crease. This step adds warmth and structure to the eyes.3. Apply a deeper shade along the lash line, using pressing and stippling motions to define the eyes.4. For extra smokiness, apply a darker eyeliner shade into the upper and lower waterline. This enhances the appearance of the whites of the eyes.5. Finish with multiple coats of mascara to give length and volume, completing the sultry, smoldering look.

The One-Product Smokey Eye: A Quick and Easy Solution

While the five-step process is straightforward, Ellis reveals a simplified approach for those short on time. "I love a one-product swipe and go smokey eye," she shares. The key is to apply a creamy eyeshadow formula generously along the lash line. "It's completely up to you how dark you want to go, but with cream formulas you can always apply softly at first and add more depth if needed," she explains. Simply use your fingertips to blend and buff the product upwards towards the eyelid space, then finish with a generous application of mascara.

Tailoring the Smokey Eye to Different Eye Colors

Adapting the smokey eye to complement various eye colors is all about choosing complementary shades. For blue eyes, Ellis recommends warm brown tones to make them pop even more. For brown eyes, she suggests blue or plum tones to make them stand out. The Bobbi Brown two-in-one kohl cream liner is a premium pick, but for a more budget-friendly option, the Kiko Milano eyeliner and khôl duo in a brown eye-friendly aquamarine shade is a great alternative.Whether you're a seasoned smokey eye enthusiast or a newcomer to the trend, these expert tips from Hollie Ellis will have you mastering the moody-glam look in no time. Embrace the resurgence of this timeless technique and let your eyes take center stage this spring-summer 2025.