As the festive season approaches, Kriti Sanon's elegant style offers endless inspiration. Her signature brown smoky eye is the perfect look for Diwali—softer than black, incredibly versatile, and stunning on Indian skin tones.
Why Brown Is the New Festive Classic
The classic black smoky eye
can sometimes feel too intense for family gatherings. A brown smoky eye, however, offers the same depth and drama but with a softer, warmer finish. It’s a universally flattering choice that enhances the natural warmth in Indian complexions, making it a sophisticated option for Diwali pujas, parties, and dinners. This look pairs beautifully with both traditional wear, like sarees and lehengas, and contemporary festive outfits, proving its versatility. The earthy tones of brown, bronze, and copper complement the rich jewel tones often seen in festive attire.
Step 1: Prep the Perfect Canvas
For any eyeshadow look to last through a long night of festivities, preparation is key. Start by applying an eyeshadow primer to your eyelids. This creates a smooth, neutral base, prevents creasing, and helps the eyeshadow colours appear more vibrant. If you don’t have a primer, a thin layer of concealer set with a light dusting of translucent powder works just as well. This step ensures your eye makeup stays flawless from the first diya to the final firework.
Step 2: Build Your Base Colour
Using a fluffy blending brush, sweep a light, matte brown or warm beige eyeshadow shade across your entire eyelid and up into the crease. This transition shade will act as a base and help you blend the darker colours more seamlessly later. The goal here is to create a soft wash of colour that eliminates any harsh lines from the start. Think of it as creating a gentle gradient that will guide the rest of your application.
Step 3: Create Depth and Dimension
Now, take a medium-toned matte brown eyeshadow on a slightly denser brush. Focus this colour on the outer corner of your eye, creating a 'V' shape, and blend it into the crease. For more intensity, as often seen in Kriti Sanon's looks, apply an even deeper chocolate or espresso brown shade very close to the lash line and concentrate it on the outer third of the eye. The key is to build the colour gradually. Layering the shades from light to dark creates a multi-dimensional effect rather than a flat, one-note look.
Step 4: The Art of Blending
Blending is the most crucial step for a perfect smoky eye. Take your clean, fluffy brush from the beginning and use small, circular motions to soften the edges between the different shades of brown. There should be no visible start or end point; just a smooth transition from dark to light. To deepen the look further, you can smudge a dark brown kajal or gel liner along the upper lash line before it sets, then blend it out with a pencil brush for an even smokier effect. Do the same on the lower lash line, using the leftover shadow on your brush for a softer, more balanced look.
Step 5: Add a Touch of Festive Shimmer
To elevate the look for Diwali, add a touch of shimmer. Pat a metallic copper, bronze, or champagne gold eyeshadow onto the centre of your eyelid with your fingertip. This catches the light beautifully and makes your eyes pop. You can also add a tiny amount of a light, shimmery shade to the inner corners of your eyes to make them appear brighter and more awake. This is a signature trick used by many makeup artists, including those who work with celebrities like Kriti Sanon, to add that final touch of glamour.
Step 6: Define and Complete the Look
No eye look is complete without defined lashes. Curl your eyelashes and apply two to three generous coats of a volumizing mascara to both the top and bottom lashes. For an extra festive touch, consider adding a pair of natural-looking false eyelashes. To balance the warm, smoky eyes, keep the rest of your makeup polished but understated. Opt for a warm blush on the cheeks and a nude, peach, or soft brown lipstick. A glossy finish on the lips can add a fresh, modern feel that complements the rich eye makeup perfectly.
