Taking it back to beauty 101, a smokey eye paired with a nude lip is one of the most timeless makeup combinations. But while the look is a classic, it probably wouldn’t spring to mind as an ageless choice. But, at 79, Glenn Close proves otherwise, showing exactly how mature women can wear it with confidence.
It's all about the right placement, clever blending, and one simple finishing touch to lift the whole look.
Appearing at the London fan screening of the new Hunger Games prequel, Sunrise on the Reaping, Glenn brought her beauty A-game. The actress is stepping back into her villain era for the film, so a dark, alluring look is certainly a fitting choice.
Even against her impressively sculpted, cornucopia-shaped hairstyle, Glenn’s eyes shone. Soft, shimmering shades of taupe and ash were dusted across her lids, with a touch swept along the lower lashline too. A sweep of eyeliner along the upper lashes added definition, while a generous lashing of mascara created an eye-opening effect.
Completing the old-school formula was a satin nude lip, working in perfect harmony with the soft, peachy blush on her cheeks.
Why is Glenn's smokey eye so flattering?
‘Glenn’s look is incredibly elegant and timeless,’ says Sascha Jackson, Stila's lead artist for the UK, who recently launched a collection in collaboration with the film. ‘The smokey eye adds definition and glamour, while the nude lip keeps everything balanced and sophisticated.’
For Sascha, the pairing works so well because of its balance. ‘The smokey eye adds depth and drama, while the more neutral lip keeps everything soft and understated. It’s also incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit any age, eye shape or complexion.’
How can I stop a smokey eye looking ageing?
When it comes to mature makeup, the smokey eye is often unfairly ruled out as ageing. Glenn’s look, however, dispels the myth. According to Sascha, it’s all about adapting your technique to flatter and lift mature eyes.
‘The key is blending and softer textures,’ she says. ‘Gently-diffused colour creates definition without looking too heavy. Generally, I love browns, taupes, and soft greys.’
She continues, ‘I always like to start with a wash of neutral eyeshadow, Stila’s Single Eyeshadow in Fauna is the perfect neutral taupe. Then you want to keep your deeper shades close to the lash line and outer corners, blending softly to create a lifting effect.’
Eyeliner is key to adding definition and making the eyes really pop. For mature skin, Sascha recommends working with a creamy formula, like Stila’s Smudge & Set Gel liner. ‘Start close to the lash line and gently blend upwards,’ she explains. ‘You can increase the depth and intensity as you wish.’
Stila Stay All Day® Smudge & Set Waterproof Gel Eye Liner
The one final touch that makes all the difference
For the finishing touch, some sparkle will make the eyes shine. ‘I always recommend a little touch of subtle shimmer as this will stop everything looking too flat,' advises Sascha. Keep it the shimmer texture ultra-fine and it will add an instant brightness and lift.
'However, you want to avoid anything with chunky glitter particles or frosted finishes, as these can emphasise texture,’ she notes. A favourite from her kit is the Stila Liqua-Play Liquid Eyeshadow in Kitten Shimmer.
The look isn’t quite complete without the soft, nude lip. ‘The key is finding a nude that complements your natural lip colour and skin undertone,’ says Sascha. ‘A nude that’s too pale can wash you out. I always look for peachy or rosy undertones as this will help bring a touch of warmth to the look, just as Glenn’s has.’
Even in her 70s, Glenn proves a smokey eye lands on top.
