The Best Mascara Ever: Product News, Reviews, and Application Techniques

If you want star lashes for every occasion, there are certain tools that you simply can't live without. You need an eyelash curler, great eyeliner, and maybe even a lash/brow brush and comb tool.

Here are some of the best tools for putting your best face forward.

As you can see above, I created an extremely subtle smoky effect, however, even if you zoom out, it's still noticable. What is isn't is in-your-face, which was never the original intent of the smoky eye look. However, high fashion and fad culture has created an entire new segment of eye makeup that is full of black and gray eye shadows that are overused and often abused.

While your smoky eye doesn't have to be as subtle as mine, you can create a subtle, classy smoky eye look with just your mascara and an eyeliner pencil! No shadow required.

Subtle Smoky Eye DOs

* DO use a soft, kohl eyeliner pencil or eye crayon with a medium sized point.

* DO line your top lid from around the center or the eye outwards to the edge, and the bottom corner ONLY.

* DO line your eyes BEFORE you apply your mascara.

* DO concentrate your mascara application at the base of your lashes and the outer corners. The idea is to create thickness and volume, not length.

* DO add more liner in the outer corner of the eye - this is the epicenter of the entire effect.

* DO use an eyeshadow applicator or smudging tool to gently smudge the liner.

Subtle Smoky Eye DON'Ts

*DON'T outline your entire eye unless you want to look like a racoon addicted to heroin.

* DON'T use black eyeshadow instead of an eyeliner pencil to cover more area, again, unless you want to look like a nocturnal dope fiend.

* DON'T try to go for long lashes with this look - you will look like a prostitute being attacked by spiders.

* DON'T wear deep colored lipstick or gloss with this look. You will probably look like a clown; a sad clown who has been crying.

* DON'T forget that less is more!

Now, you're ready to create a classy yet alluring look for evening that will knock 'em dead without knocking them out!

Here are some liners that will help you get there:

Like the name implies, creme (or cream) mascara is a creamy formula that is not quite like standard caking mascara formulas. It's not as thick and it doesn't harden as stiff as regular mascara, so it conditions more and gives a softer look. The downside is that is smears more easily and is not the best formula for sculpting lashes to a high impact look.

I prefer creme mascara because I absolutely have to have a natural look when I get dolled up. Even with formal wear, I only want to look polished and pretty; not glamorous.

Here are some great creme mascara formulas that will make you look marvelous.