I started to experiment with different sorts of purples, violets and lilacs and different ways to make them look “smoky”. And you know what: it’s actually more wearable and flattering than I thought! Actually quite pretty.

Sculpting and creating dimension is key here. Otherwise one just ends up with a colourful eye and nothing smokey about it! You need 2 or 3 shades to make it work. Learning this technique of smokey eye makeup is essential.

Base: a light (but vibrant) lilac/ violet shade all the way up to the brow bone.

Dark eyepencil (preferably plum) all around the eye on the lashline

Darker eyeshadow (darker purple, plum, soft mocha brown, charcoal) to sculpt the lid and “smoke out” the eye pencil.

Then the usual: highlighter here and there and a touch of bronzer to give dimension and glow to the face. 

I used a plum eyepencil and inexpensive Avon eyeshadows in Purple Haze. The intensity of colours was just right and the look was elegant and romantic.

My husband liked this spring purple smokey eye and it mattered to me. For the obvious reason, but also because men famously dislike strong, colourful makeup. So there is something in this violet/ purple/plum combo that goes down well with men.

For visual inspiration check out this lovely close up from Michael Kors Spring Summer 2010 catwalk. These sublime purple eyes courtesy of makeup artist Dick Page almost single handedly created this trend. 

What is your secret formula for purple smokey eye?