Get Gorgeous: Raccoon Eyes

The smoky eye is in the rearview mirror -- these days, stars are upping the drama with the raccoon eye. Gwyneth Paltrow, Claire Danes, and Ashley Olsen have all been spotted wearing the bold nighttime trend, which actually harks back to the mod style of the '60s. Here's how to get the look without the help of a personal makeup artist.

Before you start, brush a generous coating of powder under your eyes to catch any stray shadow or liner that may land on your cheeks. Think tame raccoon, not wild beast.

Because you will be applying color to the waterline, or inside of your eyelid, you're going to need a waterproof eyeliner. Sephora's Keep Kohl! Waterproof Liner is a sexy dark brown shade that's guaranteed to stay put. Lancome's Le Stylo in Noir or Minuit (dark blue) will also work like a charm.

The aim is to circle the eye with a strong line -- and then leave it. Resist the urge to smudge. That's what distinguishes the raccoon from the smoky eye.

Finally, sweep charcoal or brown shadow over your lids and into the crease. Use a tissue to remove excess powder from under your eyes, and leave the rest of your face as bare as you can, with maybe just a dab of pale lip gloss. Now you're all set for a fabulous night out -- preferably one that doesn't involve raiding trash cans.

What do you think will be the next animal-inspired makeup trend?