Here’s how to achieve the perfect smokey eye for Christmas party season

While it may seem like the epic summer of 2018 has only just come to an end, we're actually in the throes of deep mid-winter and Christmas is just around the corner. But while the nights are drawing in, and we're currently 532235 layers deep in warm, fluffy blankets, we're also preparing ourselves for the party season.

Yep, it's that time of year when the nights roll into one big blur of mince pie-munching party game-playing festive fun. It's also the time we get to go all out with our party wear and makeup looks as the Christmas party invites come trawling in. We're talking head-to-toe sequins, bold red lips and glam glitter accents - it's Christmas after all.

One simple, yet effective way to add a touch of Christmas sparkle is to give the classic smokey eye a party season update. So, here's how you can achieve that perfect Christmas look using products from Boots...

Step 1 - Create a flawless canvas

When it comes to mastering the perfect smokey eye, you'll want to ensure maximum wow factor - especially for the party season. One way to achieve this is to start by evening out the pigment around the eye area, creating a flawless canvas for the eyeshadow. Using Maybeline Eraser Eye Concealer from Boots under the eye and below the brow line evens out any discoloration. It's also a handy thing to have to cover up those dark circles the morning after the night before!

Step 2 - Layer up

The trick with mastering a smokey eye with staying power is too take the time to build up the eye shadow. Starting with a highlighting tone under the browbone, and a lighter transitioning coat. Then, depending on how smokey you want to go, start to layer the darker tones. Bring a mid-tone to the cut crease and then use a darker, charcoal colour along the top lash line. The wet n wild Colour Eyeshadow Quad in Walking On Egg Shells from Boots has everything you need and even shows you which shade to use where.

Step 3 - Go for glitter

Add a touch of Christmas glam with a little bit of glitter. Either as a simple accent in the cut-crease of the eye or, if you're feeling particularly festive, a final coat of sparkly eye-shadow to finish off the look. Luckily, the wet n wild Colour Eyeshadow Quad in Walking On Egg Shells has you covered again, with just the right amount of added sparkle for a Christmas nod. If you're feeling a bit extra, add a lick of Rimmel Wonder Swipe Eyeliner in Instafamous for an Instagram worthy shimmer.

Step 4 - Don't forget the lashes

To make the most of the smokey eye and amp up the glam for party season, you want your lashes to look as long and luscious as possible. Using Max Factor's False Lash Effect Mascara from Boots is a great way to give your lashes a full and festive look without the trouble of applying falsies.

Step 5 - Go bold with a red lip

You've heard the saying 'less is more', right? Well in our opinion, over the party season, it's all about 'more is more'. With this in mind, a Christmassy bold red lip is the perfect way to finish off your party season appropriate smokey eye. Yves Saint Laurent's Tatouage Couture Matte Lip Stain in colour No.7 is the long-lasting red lippy you'll need to see you through a long night of champagne sipping.

Get ready for the festive season by shopping these beauty products and more at Boots: