Easy Smokey Eye Tutorial (Beginner-Friendly Wedding Makeup Look)
This is the exact smokey eye look I wore to a safari-themed wedding in South Africa — and yes, it's the one that went viral on both TikTok and Instagram! After so many of you asked for a tutorial, I knew I had to recreate it.
What I love most about this look? It’s super easy, doesn’t require perfection, and only takes about 15 minutes. Think: smudgy, lived-in, and effortless. It works beautifully for weddings, date nights, or anytime you want to add a little drama to your look.
Start With the Eyes
Since there’s a bit of smudging involved, I always start with the eyes first.
Liner: I used the Victoria Beckham Satin Kajal Liner in Cocoa on my waterline, upper lash line, and inner rim. Don’t worry about being neat — we’ll smudge it all out.
Smudge: Use your fingers or a fluffy brush to blend out the liner for that sexy, lived-in effect.
Wing: I grabbed a tiny angled brush (Jones Road) to gently pull the liner out into a soft wing. Easy and subtle!
Mascara: Maybelline Sky High — it gives great definition, even to shorter lashes like mine.
Clean Up
Use Garnier Micellar Water and a pointed Q-tip to clean up any fallout or smudges around the eye. Don’t aim for perfection — this look is meant to feel a little undone.
Glowy Skin Prep
Before applying makeup, I prepped my skin with:
Saie Glowy Super Gel in Starglow for that lit-from-within finish.
Lightweight Base
Jones Road Tinted Moisturizer in Fair/Ivory — super natural and breathable
Tower 28 Concealer under the eyes and down the center of the face
Laura Mercier Translucent Powder to set and blur (especially in the T-zone)
Blush, Bronzer & Glow
Haus Labs Blush in Fire Moon for a warm, bronzy flush
Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Bronzer across the forehead and jawline
Jones Road Miracle Balm in Magic Hour dabbed on the apples of the cheeks and cheekbones for shimmer and dew
Lips
Topped with Merit Lip Gloss in Taupe for a glossy, taupe-pink finish
Brows
Benefit Precisely My Brow Pencil to fill in sparse areas
Anastasia Clear Brow Gel — or hairspray on a spoolie in a pinch — to lock everything in place
This smokey eye is cool, easy, and just the right amount of glam. It’s my go-to when I want to feel confident and elevated without spending hours in front of the mirror. I hope this step-by-step helps you recreate the look at home — whether for your next night out or a special event!
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