A black smokey eye is universally appealing and probably the first thing to pop in our mind when thinking of a sultry eye look. But what if we tell you there is a softer and subtler version of the smokey look that is equally stunning and glamorous? For instance, how about going for a brown smokey eye makeup? Whether you are looking for a subtle daytime style or an evening drama, a brown smokey eye look can fit into any occasion without going overboard. Stay tuned to learn how to create the perfect brown smokey eyes.

How to Create a Brown Smokey Eye?

Smokey eyes can be messy no matter what base colour you choose – black, blue or brown. Hence, it is advised to start with your eye makeup first instead of face makeup. So, start taking notes as we are about to share a quick guide on brown smokey eye for beginners:

Step 1: Prep Your Eyelids  

Prepping your eyelids is crucial for lasting eyeshadow makeup. Apply eyeshadow primer or concealer, and blend with your fingers for a smooth canvas.  

Step 2: Set the Base with Light Brown Shade  

Take out your favorite nude eyeshadow palette from your vanity, pick a light brown eyeshadow, and apply it to the entire eyelid from the lash line up to the brow bone.

Step 3: Deepen the Crease with Medium Brown Shade  

For subtle brown smokey eye makeup look, blend medium brown eyeshadow into the crease using a fluffy brush. This will create a soft shadow.  

Step 4: Intensify the Outer Corner with Dark Brown Shade

Playing with different shades of brown is indeed fun. Now, apply dark brown eyeshadow in the outer corner of your eye and blend inwards in a "V" shape. Your brown smokey eye makeup look is almost ready. Now blend, blend, and blend! And, make sure there’s a seamless gradient of color on your lid (from light dark hues to dark brown).  

Step 5: Smudge the Lower Lash Line

How to create a brown smokey eye, you ask? For a stunning smoked out effect, smudge the dark brown eyeshadow with a small brush along your lower lash line to make a link to the outer corner.

Step 6: Highlight & Shine  

Dial up the drama and elevate your brown smokey eyes look by loading a shimmery champagne or gold eyeshadow or highlighter on your brow bone and inner corner of your eye.   

Step 7: Line and Define  

For more definition, line your upper lash line with a brown or black smokey gel eyeliner. Create winged eyeliner for extra drama.    

Step 8: Finish with Mascara  

Complete your brown smokey eye makeup look with two coats of volumizing mascara. Wiggle the mascara wand on your top and bottom lashes to coat each lash.  

Face Makeup to Complement a Brown Smokey Eye

Whether you are creating a smokey eye for brown eyes or black eyes or blue eyes, your face makeup should be top-notch to amp up the entire look. Here’s a step-wise guide on how to achieve the perfect base makeup for brown smokey eyes:

Step 1: Ace the Base  

Start your face makeup by applying a primer, cover the blemishes with concealer, and follow with a foundation that perfectly matches your skin tone.  

Step 2: Subtle contour  

For sculpted look, gently contour your cheekbones and jawline.

Step 3: Warm Blush  

For naturally flushed look, apply a warm-colored blush on the apples of your cheeks.

Lip Makeup for Brown Smokey Eyes

The right lip shade can make or break any look! Here are some lip makeup options that you can choose to match your brown smokey eye makeup look:

Nude Lips  

Nude shade lipsticks for brown smokey eyes are match-made in heaven. Go for peach or pink undertones to match with the warmth of brown eyeshadow.

Bold Lips  

Are you a drama girl? If yes, experiment with a bold berry or red lipstick.

Glossy Finish  

Big fan of glossy lips? Swipe a lip gloss for a plumping finish and some glamour.

Tips for Brown Smoky Eyes Makeup

Here are some tips for a perfect smokey eye for brown eyes:

Blend, Blend, Blend!  

Blending is key to achieving perfect smokey eyes. Blend well the various eyeshadow shades for a seamless transition and a professional finish.

Build Intensity Gradually  

Start your brown smokey eye makeup with lighter shades and gradually increase the intensity to prevent stiff lines.

Use the Right Brushes  

Invest in quality eye makeup brushes to get the desired results.

And it’s done! With this guide on brown smokey eye for beginners, you can now master the brown smokey eye look. Keep practicing and don't hesitate to test out various browns and blend techniques to find what suits you best.

Need assistance with eyeshadow or lip shades? Navigate through the Maybelline Virtual Try-on tool that lets you virtually experiment with different face makeup, eye makeup, and lip makeup products without any commitment. Additionally, you can also utilize the Maybelline Foundation Finder tool to find the perfect shade match of your foundation.