I love a trend that feels like it’s been around forever—and somehow still looks brand new. That’s exactly what’s happening right now with the brown-and-plum smokey eye. Old Hollywood glamour, softened. Less drama queen, more leading lady who drinks her coffee black and knows where she’s going.
This look has depth, warmth, and a little mystery. It’s sultry without being heavy, polished without being precious. And best of all? You don’t need a 25-pan palette or a makeup degree to pull it off.
Here’s how I do it—using only Cheekbone Beauty favourites I keep reaching for.
Step 1: Start with Plum (Your Secret Weapon)
Plum is the unsung hero of a smokey eye. It gives you richness without harshness, and it flatters every eye colour. I use our plum eyeshadow pencil as the base, sweeping it across the lid and slightly into the crease.
Don’t overthink it. This is not the time for perfection—smudge it with your finger or a fluffy brush. The warmth of your skin actually helps the pigment melt in. Makeup wisdom as old as time.
Step 2: Ground It with Brown
Next, I reach for Cedar Brown eyeliner. You can skip this step, sometimes I do and just use plum. This shade is everything: deep, earthy, and softer than black (because we’re grown now).
I line the upper lash line and gently smudge it outward. Think definition, not sharp lines. Cedar Brown gives structure to the look and keeps the plum from floating away into “why did I do this at midnight?” territory.
Step 3: Add a Touch of Hollywood Glow
This is where the magic happens, if you want it to. A little Brown Topaz shimmer pressed onto the centre of the lid brings light back in. Keyword: little. We’re going for candlelight glow, not disco ball.
Brown Topaz catches the light just enough to feel glamorous—like studio lighting from the 1940s, but portable.
Step 4: Lashes, Always
Finish with Uprise Mascara. One coat for daytime polish, two if you’re feeling bold. This mascara lifts, defines, and holds its own against a smokey eye without overpowering it.
Good lashes are like good posture—quietly powerful.
Why This Look Works
Brown and plum together are timeless. They’ve been worn on red carpets, film sets, and everyday lives for decades. Trends come and go, but this combination stays because it works.
It’s forgiving. It’s wearable. It’s confident.
And maybe that’s why Hollywood keeps coming back to it, because confidence never goes out of style.
But remember with our brand all your products are natural and safe for sensitive eyes.
If you try this look, tag us. I love seeing how you make it your own. 💄✨