One look that never gets old is the sultry, sexy smoky-eyed look. From red carpet to dinner functions, it has proven to be a popular option for the ladies.

While best achieved by having a professional make-up artist answering your every beck and call, we can teach you how to create the look without passing off as a panda at the end of the night.

Step One: Apply a layer of foundation and translucent powder to the eyelid to keep the eye make-up in place. This is very important - if your dark smoky eye make-up bleeds, you’re less likely to look sexy and more likely to look skanky. So powder your lids generously.

Step Two: Take a neutral eye shadow, depending on your skin tone, and cover your entire eyelid, right from the lashes all the way to the brow bone.

Step Three: Use an eyeliner pencil in black, dark brown or charcoal grey. Apply it along the upper and lower lash lines. Then smudge it gently with the rubber-tipped applicator located at the back of most eye liners that can be found in the market today.

Try not to use your fingers for this task. Alternatively for a more lasting effect, use liquid liner along the top lid and just draw out the ends with a pencil liner and smudge. The bottom lash line can be done all the way or just half towards the outside of your eye to make it look less severe.

Step Four: Dark grey eye shadow or dark brown works best if you have dark coloured eyes. Brush the colour into the crease of your eyelids but do not go above the crease line that is created when the eye is open. However, this is flexible and you have to try out what works best on you. You could brush above the crease angling outwards in a slightly lighter colour as well if you want to be adventurous. If you are not an expert in the realms of make-up though, we advise you to stick to the safe way and not brush above the crease line.

Step Five: Curl your eyelashes and apply liberal coats of mascara but remember, clumping
is a no-no so comb your lashes through after application. For a more dramatic effect, use false eyelashes
that are readily available at most cosmetic counters. You could even ask the sales assistant for help in applying but avoid super dramatic false eyelashes as they would look fake. Unless that is the look you are going for, of course.

There you have it. Smokey eyes in five simple steps without looking like someone gave you a black eye. This ensures a sultry finish without looking overtly severe. Try to use waterproof eye make-up as much as possible especially if you are out for a long night of partying!