Victoria Beckham's MUA says this is the secret to the perfect smokey eye every time

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I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that smokey eye make-up is probably the most searched for look when it comes to video tutorials and how-to guides.

That's why when I saw Wendy creating this exact look for Julien MacDonald SS19, I pounced.

If you didn't already know, Wendy is one of the world's most sought-after make-up artists and also happens to be Sienna Miller and Victoria Beckham's MUA (she was the mastermind behind VB's look at the royal wedding, don't you know).

So what does one of the greats have to say on the smokey eyes subject?

'Using the right products is a really important part of getting it right when attempting a smokey eye look at home, but also for me when I’m working backstage,' Wendy explains. 'You need products that are easy to use and blend effortlessly.

'I find the texture of Max Factor's Smokey Eye Drama kit really easy to apply and used Azure Allure to create that sexy, smokey eye look on models.'

The best tip Wendy has though is that if you've been applying your mascara once your eyeshadow is complete, think again.

'Start by applying your mascara first – that way, you can get right into the roots of the lashes and make a bit of a mess, then clean up using some Bioderma on a q-tip before applying the rest of your smokey eye,' Wendy advises.

'If you spend ages getting your eyeshadow right and then apply your mascara afterwards, you risk messing up all of your hard work!'

Keep reading for more of the essential make-up products a pro MUA can't live without in her backstage kit.

5 things Wendy always carries in her fashion week kit

Make-up remover

'I always have Bioderma and Lancôme Bi-Facial eye make-up remover to hand if I need to clean up a mistake, tidy up mascara, neaten a lip line – or just remove makeup, of course!'

Kiko Scrub Wipes

'These are amazing for removing any bits of dry skin from the lips to create a smooth, polished base before lips.'

Waterproof mascara

'Max Factor 2000 Calorie is a staple which won’t smudge, drop or make a mess so I always have this mascara in my backstage kit. Even if I’m creating an intense lash feel with another mascara, which I did on the top lashes this season using Max Factor False Lash Effect Mascara, 2000 Calorie is something I’d always use on the bottom lashes, where the mascara is more likely to drop and make a mess.'

Skincare

'I always start any make-up routine by cleansing with a cream cleanser, toning using a mist spray followed by Sarah Chapman’s Intense Hydrating Booster, moisturiser. And also always eye cream and lip balm.'

A great nude lipstick

'This season I used Colour Elixir Matte Bullet Lipstick in Nude 05 on the models backstage – it’s a staple colour and texture and doubles up as both a lipstick and cream blush.'