What Is a Smoky Eye, Anyway?

Ads love to throw this phrase around like we’re all supposed to magically know what they’re talking about. But what’s the difference between a “smoky eye” and regular blended eyeshadow? Well, traditional eyeshadow styles usually have the darkest shade in the crease, with lighter shades on the lid and brow bone. A smoky eye has a smudgy gradient effect, with the darkest shade around the lash line. There are variations, of course, but that’s the gist.