The Modern Take on a Classic
The smoky eye has been a makeup mainstay for decades, but its classic form—using heavy blacks and greys—can sometimes feel harsh or reserved for only the most dramatic evening events. Kriti Sanon often showcases its modern evolution: the brown smoky eye.
This version uses a palette of chocolates, bronzes, and taupes to create a softer, warmer, and more approachable effect. The result is just as sultry and defined but with an added layer of understated elegance. It replaces the stark intensity of black with a rich depth that enhances the eyes without overpowering them. This simple switch from cool, dark tones to warm, earthy ones makes the look incredibly versatile and flattering.
Why Warm Neutrals Flatter Indian Skin
The secret to the brown smoky eye's widespread appeal, especially in India, lies in its use of warm neutral colours. Most Indian skin tones have warm, golden, or olive undertones. Shades like terracotta, copper, bronze, and rich browns harmonise beautifully with this natural warmth. Unlike cool-toned greys or silvers that can sometimes appear ashy or create a stark contrast, warm browns blend seamlessly, creating a radiant and cohesive look. These colours don't just sit on the skin; they enhance its natural glow, making the eyes look brighter and more expressive. Whether your complexion is fair, medium, or deep, a palette of warm neutrals is a foolproof choice for adding definition and richness.
The Ultimate All-Occasion Look
Few makeup looks can transition as effortlessly from day to night as the brown smoky eye. For a daytime professional setting, a light wash of a matte taupe or soft brown in the crease provides subtle definition. This can be achieved in minutes and offers a polished, put-together appearance. For an evening affair, the look can be intensified by layering deeper chocolate or espresso shades in the outer corner and along the lash line. Adding a touch of shimmer—like a pop of bronze or gold on the centre of the lid—instantly elevates the look to festive-ready glamour. This versatility makes it the ultimate workhorse in any makeup routine, adaptable for everything from a brunch date to a wedding reception.
How to Achieve the Look
Recreating Kriti Sanon’s signature look is simpler than it appears and doesn't require professional skills. Start by applying an eyeshadow primer to ensure the colours stay vibrant and don't crease. Begin with a medium-toned matte brown, like a warm terracotta, and blend it into the crease with a fluffy brush as a transition shade. Next, take a slightly deeper brown and apply it to the outer third of your eyelid, gently blending it into the crease to build depth. For added drama, use a flat brush to pat a dark chocolate brown shade near the lash line. The key is to blend thoroughly at each step to avoid harsh lines. Finish with a touch of a shimmery champagne or gold on the inner corner of the eye and a generous coat of mascara to complete the defined, sultry effect.
