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When it comes to gorgeous makeup,  it doesn’t always have to be trendy, or edgy. Take Kate Beckinsale’s simple, and yet striking slate smoky eyes at a MOCA party in Los Angeles.

To get this classic eye just right, celebrity artist beth bender suggests prepping the lids with a creamy eye primer before adding any color. Then begin by layering on a gray shadow with a soft brush and rimming the eyes with black waterproof liner. “The primer holds the makeup in place so you can decide how smudgy you want your eyes to get.” For added drama add a platinum shimmer to the inner eye area and blend into slate shadow.

A smoky eyeliner stencil is great for anyone who has trouble with placement, and fits any eye shape. Simply hold in place over the eyelid while filling in with color. Reload the brush with shadow and sweep into crease, and underneath the eye using the bottom liner shape with the same stencil.

benefit’s BADgal Waterproof eyeliner in black is perfect for rimming the eyes. It stays put, smudges easily, and looks great. Place your finger at the outer corner of your eye and gently lift the skin up and out slightly. Holding the pencil as close to the upper lash line as possible, draw short strokes from the outer lashes inward, creating a thick line and tapering as you get closer to the inner eye.

To finish this gorgeous holiday look, blend everything into a soft haze by sweeping your brush over any edges of color. Clean up any stray shadow with an eye makeup remover, or eye cream, and don’t forget your concealer. A must have for the perfect smoky eyes.