12 best kohl formulas to help you get Dimple Kapadia's soft smoky-eye look (2024)

Who doesn’t recognise the legendary Dimple Kapadia? Since her debut in Bobby (1973) over five decades ago, the actor’s career has been marked by iconic highs that have established her as both a style and beauty icon. Among her most defining features—besides that signature voluminous mane—is one that has remained a staple over the years, becoming a signature look for her and even her daughter, Twinkle Khanna: softly kohl-rimmed, smoky eyes. But it is nothing like the typical diffused eyeshadow look; instead, it’s a precisely blurred kajal effect that outlines Dimple Kapadia's eyes, giving them an intensity and depth that is immediately striking to anyone looking.

The technique

The understated but impactful eye makeup is created with black kohl as the star product. The black pigment rims the eyes softly and is delicately smudged over the natural lashline to give the wearer a defined but natural frame without appearing too heavy. When worn against minimal face makeup, this look allows for the eyes to be the focal point. If you'd like to replicate the look, here are 13 kohl pencils that will help you get there.

Chanel Le Crayon Khol in Noir

A richly pigmented kohl pencil that delivers drama and definition for the eyes. Its creamy formula glides on smoothly allowing for precise strokes or a blended smoky eye.

Forest Essentials Gulab Khaas Kajal in Charcoal Black

Crafted with Ayurvedic ingredients, this kajal stick comes in a deep charcoal black shade. The formula is infused with rose extracts that help soothe the eyes too, making it a good option even for those with sensitive eyes.

Bobbi Brown 24 Hour Waterproof Kajal Liner in Black

Turn up the drama with this long-lasting kajal liner. Designed for all-day wear, it is also waterproof and transfer-resistant. Given its unique tip, this kajal can be used to create subtle feline flicks and can also be smudged out for an edgy finish.

Dior DIORshow On Stage Crayon Waterproof Kohl Eyel in Black

Designed for a long-lasting effect, this kohl crayon offers a waterproof black colour that is creamy and blendable. The pencil also comes with a sharpener.

Benefit Cosmetics BADgal Bang! 24 Hour Eye Pencil in Black

The matte finish of this product makes it easy to use, long-lasting and smudge-proof. Given the waterproof formula, it is also ideal for creating bold, dramatic eyes and suits even sensitive eyes

Estee Lauder Double Wear 24H Waterproof Gel Eye Pencil in Onyx

As the shade name suggests, this creamy onyx-coloured gel pencil provides all-day wear without smudging. The super intense black shade glides on smoothly, creating bold and defined lines. Enriched with Jojoba oil, this product features a coloured liner on one end and a smudger on the other - making it easy to create a perfect smokey eye.

Clinique High Impact Kajal in Blackened Black

This clinically tested kajal in the shade “blackened-black” provides deep, rich color in a single stroke. Designed for lasting wear, its smooth formula is ideal for sensitive eyes and contact lens users. Gliding on easily, it delivers intense definition, making it suitable for daily use and also to create dramatic effects.

Lancôme Le Crayon Khôl Eyeliner Pencil in Noir

A classic, creamy kohl pencil in deep noir, this product is ideal for creating intense or softly blended looks. Designed for lasting wear, this pencil offers precision and a comfortable feel with every use. It is suitable for all eye types and adds drama and depth to any eye look, perfect for achieving a sophisticated finish.

Too Faced Killer Kajal in Intense Black

If you're looking for a product that would potentially create edgy, intense and dramatic looks, the Too Faced “killer” kajal would be a no-brainer. This creamy pencil glides on smoothly, offering intense pigmentation and smudge-proof, long-lasting wear. Formulated with an intense black shade, this kajal is a must-have for your vanity.

Kiko Milano Color Kajal in Black

This kohl pencil is specifically designed for the inner eye. It allows you to create captivating and dramatic eye looks enabling precise strokes for a flawless finish. The richly pigmented and creamy formula of this Kiko Milano color kajal offers an intense colour payoff and glides effortlessly over your eyes.

Huda Beauty Creamy Kohl Longwear Eye Pencil in Very Vanta

Ideal for creating a variety of looks, from subtle to intense - this product is an ultra-black, creamy kohl pencil designed for high-pigment impact and long wear. Its soft texture glides effortlessly on the waterline or lash line and helps deliver a rich colour with minimal touch-ups. This could be your perfect tool to create smudge-free dramatic eye looks.

Lakme Absolute Ultimate Kohl in Black

This richly pigmented black kohl glides on smoothly, giving you bold, defined eyes with a creamy finish. Perfect for any look—from a subtle line to intense drama—it’s both waterproof and smudge-resistant for all-day wear. It’s the ideal choice to incorporate into your every-day makeup routine.

Also read:

Why kajal is a symbol of inclusivity and self-expression

How to do Diwali makeup for a maximalist, according to a celebrity makeup artist

10 celebrity-approved makeup techniques to highlight your brown eyes