Kriti Sanon has cemented her status as a true style icon, turning heads with her elegant fashion and flawless makeup. One of her most requested and signature looks is the soft, brown smoky eye—a universally flattering and versatile choice.
The Allure of the Brown Smoky Eye
Few makeup looks
are as timeless as the smoky eye, but the classic black version can sometimes feel too intense for every occasion. Enter its softer, more approachable cousin: the brown smoky eye. This look, frequently sported by Kriti Sanon, has become a go-to for its incredible versatility. Brown and bronze tones are particularly flattering on Indian skin, adding warmth and depth without overwhelming the eyes. It’s a look that transitions seamlessly from a daytime event to a glamorous evening out, pairing just as well with a simple kurta as it does with a chic cocktail dress. The key is in the blend, creating a gradient of neutral shades that defines and enhances the eyes beautifully.
Your Essential Makeup Toolkit
Before you begin, gathering the right products will make the process smooth and effortless. You don't need a professional artist's entire kit; just a few key items will do the trick. First, an eyeshadow primer is crucial for ensuring your look stays put without creasing. Next, you'll need an eyeshadow palette featuring a range of neutral browns. Look for one with at least three shades: a light beige or taupe for your base, a medium warm brown for the crease, and a deep chocolate or espresso brown for smoking it out. A creamy, smudge-able kohl pencil in brown or black is essential for defining the lash line. Finally, have your favourite mascara and a few blending brushes ready to go.
Step 1: Prep the Lids
The secret to a long-lasting smoky eye is a well-prepped base. Start by applying a thin layer of eyeshadow primer all over your eyelid, from the lash line up to the brow bone. This not only prevents the shadow from creasing but also makes the colours appear more vibrant. Let the primer set for a minute. If you have discolouration on your lids, you can also apply a light layer of concealer and set it with a translucent powder to create a perfectly even canvas for your eyeshadow.
Step 2: Build Your Base
Using a fluffy eyeshadow brush, sweep the lightest neutral shade from your palette all over your eyelid. This initial layer helps the other shadows blend more seamlessly. Think of it as the foundation for your eye look. Choose a shade close to your natural skin tone or slightly lighter, like a soft beige or a pale taupe. This step ensures there are no harsh lines and provides a smooth gradient as you layer on darker colours.
Step 3: Define the Crease
Next, take the medium brown shade on a smaller, tapered blending brush. Apply this colour into the crease of your eyelid, using windshield-wiper motions to build up the intensity. This step adds dimension and depth to your eyes, creating the illusion of a more defined socket. For hooded eyes, apply this shade slightly above your natural crease so it remains visible when your eyes are open. Keep blending until the transition between the base and crease colour is soft and seamless.
Step 4: Smoke and Smudge
Now for the 'smoky' part. Pick up the darkest brown shadow with a dense, flat brush and press it onto the outer third of your eyelid, keeping the colour concentrated near the lash line. Then, take your creamy kohl pencil and line your upper lash line. Before it sets, use a smudger brush or even your finger to gently smudge the liner and the dark shadow together. This technique is what creates that hazy, smoked-out effect Kriti Sanon is known for. For added intensity, you can also apply the darkest shadow along your lower lash line and smudge it out.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
No eye look is complete without beautifully framed lashes. Curl your eyelashes and apply two generous coats of your favourite mascara to both the top and bottom lashes. This will open up your eyes and complete the look. For an extra touch of glamour, add a small dab of a shimmery champagne or gold highlighter to the inner corners of your eyes and just below the arch of your eyebrows. This subtle highlight brightens the entire eye area and adds a professional polish.
