Siren Song

In scouring the glossies and the most recent Sephora catalogue, one thing is clear. This fall, makeup is all about new takes on the classic smokey eye, adding more drama and bright colors into the otherwise dreary fall backdrop. Although a black-and-grey smokey eye is my preferred Friday night look, I thought it could be fun to try to recreate some of these looks at a lower price. These looks are fun and flirty, but definitely not for the faint of heart and certainly not for every day. Here's my take on the "mermaid" smokey eye (not to be confused with the "fish eye" or the "stink eye").

Choose two shades of green that work with your skin tone and complement each other. To steal from Stacey London - they don't have to "match", they just have to "go"! In Style recommends one shade from Cle de Peau and one from Bobbi Brown, but since this trend will surely ebb and flow like the tide, I suggest starting with something less expensive and like ULTA's house brand eye shadows in Envy (emerald) and Luna (teal). Or, if you're looking for something that will stand the test of time and trend, try Stila's Eye Shadow Duo in Kaijiki.

First, here is where I differ from In Style - I recommend lining your upper lash line and the the outer 2/3 of your lower lid with a darker green eye pencil like Elizabeth Arden's Smokey Eyes pencil in Pine. To me, a smokey eye is all about definition and blending, and I think the look really loses something without the inclusion of an eye liner to kick things off.

Next up, apply the emerald color on the lids and line the outer 2/3 of the lower lash line. Then sweep the turquoise shade from lash line into the creases on your eye lid, blending well into the green at the crease. Bringing the shimmery teal around your whole eye and into the inner corners will add light to an otherwise dark shadow, bringing all the focus to your eyes. Finish off with two coats of mascara - maybe even try a navy one, if you're feeling daring - and let your inner Siren sing!