One product that genuinely does three things: a sharp line, a smudged-out smokey diffusion, or an eyeshadow base, depending on how you use it. The built-in sharpener and smudger make it self-contained enough to travel with nothing else. Vitamin E and jojoba oil keep it comfortable on the waterline, and the creamy payoff means you're not pressing down hard to get colour.

If you’re a complete beginner, this multi-tasking crayon will be a godsend. Not only does it do the job of an eyeshadow, eyeliner and kohl with ease, but it also comes in different colours. This Blackout variant is ideal for a classic black smokey eye, but you can also opt for a dark brown shade from the range if you prefer something less intense. Apply it along your upper lash line and blend it upwards and outwards with a brush before it sets. You can also smudge a little bit of product along your lower lash line for added drama. It really doesn’t get easier than this.

For a perfectly hued smokey eye, getting the base right is more important than you’d think. You’ve got to build up the colour gradually by layering well, and this nude palette allows you to do just that. Start by applying a lighter shade across your lids, then blend a medium brown into the crease and add a darker brown to the outer corners. You can leave it at that for a more understated finish, or layer a gel eyeliner or kajal along your lash lines and smudge it out for a more intense smokey eye.

Smokey eyes and blending go hand in hand. Blend your kohl right and you’re well on your way. This one from Ruby’s Organics comes with a built-in smudger to make your life easier. Its intensely pigmented black formula has a matte finish and glides on smoothly, thanks to a blend of almond, castor and jojoba oils. Apply it along your upper lash line and use the smudger to blend the colour upwards and outwards, and then repeat the process along your lower lash line. And voila! Your smokey eyes are good to go.

Jazz up your smokey eye with this shimmery eyeshadow palette from Sheglam. Perfect for a night out or a festive occasion, this eight-shade palette combines earthy browns and neutral tones with a fair dose of glitter. Start with a lighter shade as your base, blend a deeper brown into the crease of your lid and the outer corners and, finally, dab one of the shimmery shades onto the centre of your lids for some added sparkle.

Another great way to add depth and definition to a smokey eye, especially when you’re working with an eyeshadow palette, is with a gel eyeliner. Unlike liquid liners that create sharp lines, gel formulas have a creamier texture that allows you to blend the colour into your eyeshadow. This one from L’Oréal Paris delivers intense black pigment and comes with a built-in applicator to help you soften the edges. Apply it close to your upper and lower lash lines, blending it into your eyeshadow.