
Different Eyeliner Styles and How to Do Them
Eyeliner is a versatile makeup tool that can transform your look in countless ways. Whether you prefer a subtle enhancement or a bold statement, mastering different eyeliner styles can elevate your makeup game. Here are some popular eyeliner styles and eye liner tips on how to achieve them.
1. Classic Winged Eyeliner
The classic winged eyeliner, also known as the cat-eye, is a timeless look that suits any occasion. Here’s how to do it:
Steps:
- Prepare Your Eyes: Start with a clean eyelid. Apply a primer to ensure your eyeliner lasts longer and doesn’t smudge.
- Draw a Line: Using a liquid or gel eyeliner, draw a line from the inner corner of your upper eyelid to the outer corner. Keep the line as close to your lash line as possible.
- Create the Wing: At the outer corner, extend the line upwards towards the end of your eyebrow. The length and angle of the wing depend on your preference.
- Connect the Lines: Draw a line from the tip of the wing back to the middle of your lash line, creating a triangular shape.
- Fill It In: Fill in the triangle and ensure the lines are smooth and even.
Eye Liner Tips:
- Use tape or a credit card as a guide to get a sharp wing.
- Start with a thin line and build up the thickness gradually.
2. Smokey Eyeliner
The smokey eyeliner look is perfect for a sultry, dramatic effect. It works well for evening events and adds depth to your eyes.
Steps:
- Prime Your Eyelids: Apply an eyeshadow primer to prevent creasing.
- Apply Eyeshadow: Use a dark eyeshadow along your upper lash line. Blend it outwards to create a smokey effect.
- Line Your Eyes: Use a pencil eyeliner to line your upper and lower lash lines. Smudge the lines with a smudger or a cotton swab for a soft, diffused look.
- Blend: Blend the eyeliner and eyeshadow together to eliminate harsh lines.
Eye Liner Tips:
- Choose a pencil eyeliner that’s easy to smudge.
- Blend with a light hand to avoid over-smudging.
3. Tightlining
Tightlining, also known as invisible eyeliner, enhances your lashes and defines your eyes subtly. It’s perfect for a natural look.
Steps:
- Lift Your Eyelid: Gently lift your upper eyelid to expose the waterline.
- Apply Eyeliner: Use a waterproof pencil eyeliner to line the upper waterline. Make sure to apply the liner in small strokes to avoid irritation.
Eye Liner Tips:
- Use a waterproof formula to prevent smudging.
- Tightline before applying mascara for a seamless look.
4. Graphic Eyeliner
Graphic eyeliner is a bold, artistic style that makes a statement. It’s great for creative makeup looks and fashion-forward events.
Steps:
- Plan Your Design: Decide on the shape and style you want to create. Popular choices include geometric shapes, floating eyeliner, and double wings.
- Use a Fine Tip: Use a liquid eyeliner with a fine tip for precision. Draw your design slowly and carefully.
- Clean Up: Use a cotton swab dipped in makeup remover to clean up any mistakes and sharpen the lines.
Eye Liner Tips:
- Practice your design on the back of your hand before applying it to your eyes.
- Use contrasting colors for a more striking effect.
5. Reverse Eyeliner
Reverse eyeliner focuses on the lower lash line instead of the upper, creating a unique and edgy look.
Steps:
- Prime Your Lower Lid: Apply primer to your lower lid to prevent smudging.
- Line Your Lower Lash Line: Use a pencil or gel eyeliner to line your lower lash line. Extend the line slightly beyond the outer corner for a winged effect.
- Smudge: Use a smudger or a small brush to soften the line and create a smokey effect.
Eye Liner Tips:
- Pair with minimal upper eyelid makeup to let the lower liner stand out.
- Use a waterproof formula to prevent smudging.
Conclusion
Eyeliner is a powerful tool that can enhance your eyes in various ways. Whether you’re going for a classic wing, a dramatic smokey look, or a bold graphic design, mastering these styles will give you the confidence to experiment and express yourself. Remember to practice and use these eye liner tips to perfect your technique. With time and patience, you’ll be able to achieve any eyeliner style with ease.