The Latest Trend: Black Eyes, Lips, Nails

Sonam Kapoor in smoky eyes and black nails

Once believed to be the exclusive domain of goth or rock lovers, black has become one of the hottest beauty trends these days. From smoldering kohl-rimmed eyes to sultry black nails or even sheer black gloss on the lips for the more adventurous, this hue can look deliciously edgy. “Black is a classic, very similar to red in many ways. It requires a certain level of daring to be worn well. The hard-rock image of men in black lipstick and nails might have dissuaded women from experimenting with this look but all that is changing. If used well, black can be playful or classic and can easily be worn at all ages. Younger users can be bolder while others could try creating sophistication with black, using the hue in moderation and blending with other shades,” says Deepa Bhatia, product manager, Lancôme India.

When using black, the most important thing is to focus on one feature at a time and not overdo it to avoid looking garish. “Also, you can only carry off as much black as your personality allows”, believes Cory Walia. Finally, this shade is best left for the evening. As Charmaine Rao, make-up artist for Yves Saint Laurent puts it “black is glamorous after the sun sets.”

• Nailing It
  “If you’re using black on your nails, make sure your nails are cut properly. Worn on nails that are too long, it could look tacky. Too short nails could end up looking messy. So ensure that your nails are clean and neat,” says Xavier Bertrand, Chanel retail manager. Finally, top black nail polish with a transparent top coat makes the nails look glossy and finished, advises Charmaine Rao.
  
  
• Lip Service
  “Not very wearable, this trend is more suited for fashion make-up but if you’re daring enough to try it, wear nude lipstick with black gloss. Alternatively, you can use dark plum shades that look more subtle,” suggests Meeta Awatramani, training manager, Clarins India. “If you’re wearing black on lips, eyes and nails should be neutral. Use pinkish-beige shades on eyes with neutral colors and a French manicure on nails. Hair tied back in a chignon with a classic cocktail dress works well,” says Charmaine Rao.
  
  
• Eye Do
  The smoky eyes look is classic and eternally in fashion. Start with less, then intensify color gradually. Under-eye circles must be concealed perfectly first. Finish off the look with mascara to open up the eyes and intensify the effect. Awatramani’s pick is Clarins Instant Light Eye Perfecting Base. When using black on the eyes, always create a barrier of loose powder under the eyes to avoid spillage of color from ruining your foundation. Subtle and smooth shading with metallics—gold and silver—layered over the black looks ultra glam, Cory Walia says.

Make-Up Artist Picks:

• Clarins Waterproof Eye Pencil in Black
• Estee Lauder Double Wear Zero-Smudge Liquid Eyeliner in Black
• Make Up For Ever Aqua Black Waterproof Cream Eye Shadow
  
• L'oreal Bare Naturale Gentle Mineral Eyeliner in Defining Onyx
• YSL Eyeshadow Duo in #17 Ivory Beige and Deep Black
• Chanel Nail Color in Black Satin
• YSL Pure Gloss in 49 Pure Black
• Chanel Quadra Eye Shadow in Smoky Eyes
• Lancome Color Fever Gloss in Piha Black
• Lancome Le Vernis in Piha Black