Backstage was abuzz with pre-show prep at designer LaureLuxe’s evening show, but we were able to snag AJ Crimson to get the scoop on this creation.
The Inspiration: “I saw the clothes and immediately thought of the movie 300. The look is a little dirty, grungy—but alluring.” (Um, dirty but alluring sounds like the perfect night-out eye to us!)
The How-to:
Start with moisturizer: AJ likes his girls’ skin glowing so he started with Embrolisse Lait-Creme Concentrate. The rich yet quick-absorbing cream is a cult-favorite among makeup artists. For an extra glowifying boost spritz skin with a little Caudalie Beauty Elixir. Even skin is a must so apply your fave AJ Crimson Creme Foundation before moving on to the eye.
The perfect backdrop for your smoky eye is Make Up For Ever Eyeshadow in #148, apply that over your entire lid starting at the lash line and up into the brows. Dust on your lower lid as well. Layer MUFE #84 on top, “It’s a green with a hint of shimmer—perfect for this smoky eye because it’s very earthy,” says AJ. Line your eyes with a black pencil, apply more liner to the lower lash line than upper to enhance the smoky effect. AJ’s secret to intensifying your smoke: Use your finger to dab a dark gray cream shadow around your lash line. To get that gilded highlight in the inner corners of the eye, AJ mixed Mehron Metallic Powder with a little clear OCC Lip Tar. Top off with your favorite black mascara.