I couldn’t be more excited to share the secrets of one of our most iconic makeup looks: the French Girl Smokey Eye. There’s just something effortlessly captivating about the sultry and smoldering allure of this timeless eye makeup that has enchanted women worldwide.
Whether you’re sipping café on the Seine or strolling through Central Park, this classic technique will add a touch of Parisian chic to your everyday makeup routine. Are you ready to unleash your inner French femme fatale? Alors, let me share my advice on how to do the French Girl Smokey Eye makeup look!
How to Do a Basic Black Smokey Eye
This timeless and alluring makeup look is perfect for adding a touch of Parisian chic to any occasion. Follow these simple steps to achieve the effortlessly glamorous French Girl Smokey Eye:
Step 1: Prime the Canvas
Start by applying an eye primer all over your eyelids to ensure that your eyeshadow stays put throughout the day (or night!). This step is essential for creating a smooth base and preventing creasing.
Step 2: Lay the Base
Using a matte black eyeshadow or a creamy black eyeliner, cover your entire eyelid. You want to build the intensity gradually, so start with a light layer and then gradually deepen the color as needed.
Step 3: Define the Crease
Using a soft, medium-toned brown eyeshadow, define your crease by blending it back and forth in a windshield wiper motion. This step adds depth to the eyes and creates a seamless transition between the black and the rest of your eye makeup.
Step 4: Smudge and Smoke
Now comes the signature smoky effect! Take a smudging brush or a cotton swab and gently smudge the black eyeshadow or eyeliner along your lower lash line. This will give your eyes that smoldering, lived-in look that French girls are so famous for.
Step 5: Highlight the Inner Corner
To add a touch of brightness to your smokey eye, apply a shimmery champagne or light gold eyeshadow to the inner corners of your eyes. This trick will make your eyes appear more awake and add a hint of glamour to the overall look.
Step 6: Line and Lash
Line your upper lash line with a black eyeliner, creating a subtle wing at the outer corners if desired. For an extra pop, add a coat or two of volumizing mascara to your lashes, or you can even apply some false lashes to amp up the drama!
Step 7: Perfect the Complexion
Since the French Girl Smokey Eye is the star of the show, keep the rest of your makeup soft and natural. Opt for a light foundation, a touch of blush, and a nude or rosy lip color.
Here French model Cindy Bruna explains how to do the French girl smokey eye makeup look:
French makeup artist Violette explains the French girl approach to the smokey eye look: “We’re very lazy! We’ll just use one product, put it all over, and blend it with our finger.”
Violette also has a great tutorial on how to do a more modern smokey eye look:
Voilà! You’ve now mastered the art of the Basic French Girl Black Smokey Eye makeup. Embrace the allure of this classic look and exude that effortless Parisian charm wherever you go.
Whether it’s a casual day out or a special evening event, this makeup style will always be a go-to option for adding a touch of French elegance to your ensemble. À la beauté française!
