Makeup Artists Weigh In on Dark Eyeliner for Midlife Stars

While dark eyeliner has long been a signature look for some celebrities, makeup artists are offering guidance on how to wear it effectively in midlife, suggesting that it can enhance features without being 'ageing'. Celebrities such as Claudia Winkleman, Jennifer Aniston, Amal Clooney, Victoria Beckham, Catherine Zeta-Jones, Sarah Jessica Parker, Julianne Moore, Demi Moore, and Jennifer Lopez are often seen sporting darker eye makeup.

According to Iryna Khomiakova, a makeup artist at BACKSTAGE Salon, smoky eye makeup can be particularly beautiful on middle-aged women when applied correctly. She notes that it can be ideal for evening events or even an everyday look if executed with confidence. However, the application technique is key to avoiding an ageing effect.

Claudia Winkleman, 54, is known for her signature smudged, kohl eyeliner look. While her style is recognized and admired, makeup expert Laura Kay suggests that Winkleman could achieve a more flattering effect by reducing the amount of eyeliner on the lower lash line and adding a touch of lightness to the inner corners of the eyes to make them appear more open.

Jennifer Aniston, 57, opts for a softer, well-blended smoky eye. Khomiakova explains that this approach enhances Aniston's features without making the makeup the focal point. Kay agrees, describing Aniston's look as natural and safe, with definition focused on the lashes and outer corners. She suggests Aniston could potentially go slightly smokier if desired.

Amal Clooney, 48, is praised for her subtle yet striking smoky eye. Kay believes Clooney has mastered this look, using makeup to enhance her natural beauty by framing her eyes with softly blended shadow and mascara along the upper lash line. Khomiakova notes that Clooney's high-contrast features and skin tone lend themselves well to this style.

Victoria Beckham, 52, consistently uses a dark, smoky eye as part of her personal and professional brand. Khomiakova suggests Beckham's skillfully applied makeup complements her efforts to maintain a youthful appearance and aligns with current trends. Kay, however, recommends softening the eyeliner slightly to further open up Beckham's eyes.

Catherine Zeta-Jones, 57, often employs dark eyeliner and a 'fox eye' style. Khomiakova posits that this heavy application, particularly with her deep-set and hooded eyelids, can make the actress appear older and resembles a 'vampire' look, potentially suited for specific character portrayals.

Sarah Jessica Parker is known for her smudged, lived-in smoky eye, but experts suggest the amount of dark liner underneath her eyes could make them appear smaller. Concentrating definition along the upper lashes and outer corners with softer shades is recommended.

Julianne Moore often uses darker eye looks paired with rosy cheeks and nude lips. Khomiakova finds Moore's technique draws attention to the eye color, creating a striking effect. Kay suggests that while Moore's blended shadow is lovely, a lighter eyeliner focused on the upper lash line could be more flattering.

Demi Moore's smouldering eye looks are a long-standing signature. Kay states that Moore has mastered the smoky eye by knowing her features, creating a glamorous look that enhances rather than ages her. Laura Miller, a beauty tester at Oriflame, notes that defined eyes suit Moore and that she balances darker eyeliner with luminous skin.

Jennifer Lopez's red carpet appearances frequently feature a sultry smoky eye. Khomiakova highlights that Lopez's look uses natural, warm shades with the lash line as the focal point, achieved with smudged winged liner and natural-looking false lashes. Kay suggests softening the lower lash line for a fresher finish.

Experts offer general advice for mastering dark eyeliner in midlife: avoid abandoning it altogether. Start with a fine line close to the upper lashes, gradually building and blending for a softer finish. Brown or charcoal shades can be alternatives to black. Lengthening mascara is recommended to open the eyes. The key is to feel confident and know what works for one's own features.

Rina Teslica, a beauty expert at Cult Beauty, advises keeping the application soft. Applying kohl pencil to the upper lash line and waterline, then smudging it before it sets, creates a softer edge. Layering a matte shadow over the kohl can lock in intensity. Balancing the rest of the face with glowing skin, soft blush, and a nude lip ensures the eyes remain the focus.