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Prepare eye area

Smokey eyes are a classic evening look that suit everyone and is easy to apply when you know how. We've asked make-up guru Mailin Haddow to give us a step-by-step guide on how to achieve the perfect smokey eyes for the festive season.

Our top tip is to do your eyes first before you do anything else so leave your foundation until after you've done your eyes. 

Start by preparing the eye area using an eye primer or an eye base on the lids as this will make your eye shadow last longer and not crease. Use concealer around the eye to even out skin tone and lightly dust transluscent powder to finish.

Apply eye liner to top lash line

Using a black pencil or liquid eye liner, apply along the top lash line as close to the roots as possible from one end to the other.

Don't worry if you have to do it in sections, just try and keep it as even and as straight as possible.

Apply eye liner to bottom lash line

Now apply the eye liner to the bottom lash line and inner waterline again from one end to the other. 

Apply light eye shadow

Apply a mid colour eye shadow using a firm flat-headed brush. Blend the shadow all over the eye lid and in to the socket line.

Gently sweep a small amount of the shadow to the lower eyes, under the lash line.

Apply dark eye shadow

Using a fat, soft headed brush this time, apply a darker eye shadow to the outer corner of the top lid. Blend thoroughly to create an even tone and to intensify the shade giving it a 'smokey' look.

Shimmer eye shadow

To highlight the inner corner of the eyes, apply a very light shimmering eye shadow and gently blend it.

Also apply it to the brow bone to further open up the eye.

Apply mascara

Apply at least 2-3 coats of mascara to both the top and bottom lashes.

Move the wand from root to tip coating each lash and making them appear thicker and longer.

Finished look

Your smokey eyes are now complete and as we recommended continue now with the rest of your make-up. If any eye shadow has landed on your cheeks, simply dust away with a large brush.

Keep your lips neutral so the focus remains on your eyes and you don't look too made-up. Finish with a slick of gloss and you're ready for your night out!

See our guide to achieving the perfect basehere.