How to Recreate the Iconic 90s Smokey Eye (Laura Mercier Style)

If you were obsessed with the grunge-y glamour of the late 90s—think Spice Girls, supermodels, and that perfectly smudged liner—then you already know the power of a good smokey eye. It’s sultry, a little undone, and forever iconic. And the best part? With the right Laura Mercier essentials, you can nail the look in minutes (no filter required).

Whether you’re channeling your inner ‘90s It-girl or just want a statement eye for a night out, here’s your step-by-step guide to building a classic smokey eye with a modern twist.

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Step 1: Build a Soft, Blurred Base

Start with a wash of neutral shadow to give your smokey eye a smooth canvas. Reach for Caviar Stick Eye Shadow in Au Naturel and glide it across your lids, blending up toward the brow bone. This creates that signature hazy, lived-in look without any harsh lines.

Step 2: Smoke Out the Crease

To bring in the drama, layer a deeper shade like Caviar Stick Eye Shadow in Cocoa on the outer corners and crease. Blend it outward with a fluffy brush—don’t worry if it looks a little messy, that’s the beauty of a 90s smokey eye. The goal is sultry, not super precise.

Step 3: Line, Smudge, Repeat

No smokey eye is complete without liner. Use Laura Mercier Caviar Tightline Eyeliner in Espresso Brown to trace your upper lash line, then smudge it out with a small brush for that soft, smoked effect. Drag a little along your lower lash line too—this gives the eyes that perfectly imperfect, slept-in vibe.

Step 4: Add Dimension With a Touch of Shine

The 90s were all about playing with light and shadow. Press a hint of Caviar Stick Eye Shadpw in Moonlight (a shimmery taupe) onto the center of your lids for a subtle pop that keeps the smokey eye from looking too flat.

Step 5: Seal It With Mascara

Finish with a few coats of Laura Mercier Caviar Extravagant Mascara to make your lashes bold and fluttery. For extra drama, layer on a second coat at the outer corners to enhance that pulled-out, almond-shaped effect.

Pro Tip: Pair With a Nude Lip

The key to keeping this look balanced? Let your eyes steal the show. Swipe on Laura Mercier Caviar Smoothing Matte Lipstick in Chantilly Lace or Lip Glacé in 110 Macaron for the perfect 90s-inspired nude pout.

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Why We’ll Always Love the 90s Smokey Eye

It’s timeless, universally flattering, and just the right amount of edgy. Whether you’re dressing it up for date night or keeping it lowkey with jeans and a tee, this look will always serve main-character energy.

So, grab your Caviar Sticks, smudge away, and prepare to give serious 90s supermodel glam.