How to Master Smoky Eyes

Question: "How can I do a smoky eye without making a mess? When I do the look, I just wind up with smudged shadow."

Answer: Smoky lids look super-hot -- when they're done well. When they're not, the results range from raccoon eyes to "heroin chic" to why-has-she-been-crying-all-day? For foolproof flattery, use neutral, golden nude, or bronze tones, and leave black smoky shadow to the pros.

Pro Tip: Trish McEvoy, star makeup artist and creator of the eponymous cosmetics line, suggests this modern twist on a classic smoky eye:

• Using a wide shadow brush, start at the base of your lashes and sweep on bronze shadow, shading up to the crease.
• Then apply gold shimmer from the crease up the brow bone, creating a graduated color effect.
• Working with two shades will make for easier blending, eliminating the chance for excess shadow to fall beneath eyes and smudge.
• After your shadow's done, apply concealer for a smooth, clean finish.

Originally published in Fitness magazine, April 2006.