ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN DE MODE | BEAUTY
Article Published on: 05TH DEC 2024 | www.demodemagazine.com
The winged eyeliner, also known as the cat-eye, is a timeless beauty look that has been a favorite for decades. Whether you’re aiming for a subtle flick or a dramatic wing, mastering this makeup technique can instantly elevate your look. However, achieving the perfect wing can be a challenge, even for experienced makeup lovers. The good news is that with the right tips, tools, and techniques, you can perfect the art of winged eyeliner, making it a seamless part of your beauty routine.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about winged eyeliner, including different styles, tools to use, step-by-step instructions, and expert tips for a flawless application.
1. Choosing the Right Eyeliner Formula
Before diving into techniques, it’s important to understand the different types of eyeliners and how each one affects the final result. There are three main formulas to choose from:
Liquid Eyeliner: Liquid eyeliner is the most common choice for winged eyeliner because it offers precision and a bold, sharp line. It usually comes in a pen with a felt tip or a brush applicator. While liquid liners can be tricky to use at first, they provide the cleanest lines and the best-defined wings.
Gel Eyeliner: Gel eyeliner comes in a pot and is applied with an angled brush. It gives you more control over the thickness of your line and is great for creating softer wings or building up drama gradually. Gel liners tend to stay in place longer, making them ideal for all-day wear.
Pencil Eyeliner: Pencil eyeliners are easier to use, especially for beginners, but they don’t create as sharp a wing as liquid or gel liners. However, they’re perfect for smudging and creating a more subtle or smoky look.
Photo by Taylor Heery | Source: www.unsplash.com
2. Prep Your Eyelids
Just like with any other aspect of makeup, preparation is key. Start with a clean, dry base to ensure your eyeliner goes on smoothly and lasts all day. Follow these steps to prep your eyelids:
Apply Primer: Use an eyeshadow primer or a concealer to create a smooth surface and prevent your eyeliner from smudging or transferring. This step is especially important if you have oily eyelids or plan to wear your winged eyeliner for an extended period.
Set with Powder: After applying primer, lightly dust translucent powder or a neutral eyeshadow over your eyelid. This helps to further mattify the area and lock the base in place.
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Achieving the Perfect Wing
Now that you have the right formula and prepped eyelids, it’s time to create the perfect wing. Follow these step-by-step instructions for flawless application:
Step 1: Start with the Flick
Begin by drawing the “flick” or wing at the outer corner of your eye. The key to getting this right is to follow the natural angle of your lower lash line. Imagine a line extending from your lower lash line toward the tail of your eyebrow.
Lightly draw a thin line upward, stopping at the point where you want your wing to end. Start small – you can always make the wing longer or thicker later.
Step 2: Connect the Flick to Your Lash Line
Once you have your flick, connect it back to your upper lash line. Draw a diagonal line from the tip of the flick toward the middle of your upper lash line, creating a triangle shape.
Fill in the triangle to create a smooth, solid wing.
Step 3: Line Your Upper Lash Line
Next, draw a thin line along your upper lash line, starting from the inner corner of your eye and working outward. Keep the line as close to your lashes as possible for a more natural look. If you prefer a more dramatic look, gradually thicken the line as you move toward the outer corner.
Make sure to connect the lash line to the wing for a seamless transition.
Step 4: Perfect the Wing
Use a small, pointed cotton swab or an angled brush dipped in makeup remover to clean up any mistakes or sharpen the edges of your wing. This step can make all the difference in achieving a crisp, precise look.
Step 5: Finish with Mascara
Once your winged eyeliner is complete, finish off the look with a coat (or two) of mascara to open up your eyes and define your lashes. For even more drama, consider adding false lashes.
Photo by Jamie Fenn | Source: www.unsplash.com
4. Winged Eyeliner for Different Eye Shapes
Everyone’s eyes are unique, and what works for one person might not work for another. To ensure you’re getting the best winged eyeliner for your eye shape, keep the following tips in mind:
Hooded Eyes: For hooded eyes, the skin above the crease often covers part of the eyelid, which can make the wing disappear. To combat this, draw your wing slightly above the crease, creating a thicker wing to ensure it’s visible when your eyes are open. Keep the flick angled higher to prevent it from looking droopy.
Almond Eyes: Almond-shaped eyes are well-suited for most eyeliner styles. You can experiment with different wing lengths and thicknesses. A medium-sized wing that follows the natural shape of your eye will accentuate your almond eyes beautifully.
Round Eyes: If you have round eyes and want to elongate their appearance, focus on creating a more horizontal wing. Extend the flick outward rather than upward to create the illusion of a longer, more almond-like shape.
Monolid Eyes: For monolid eyes, where there’s little to no visible crease, you can create a thicker liner that stands out. A bold wing with a sharp, elongated flick works well to define and shape the eye.
Downturned Eyes: For downturned eyes, focus on lifting the outer corners. Keep your wing at an upward angle to lift the eye, and avoid dragging the eyeliner downward, as this can accentuate the downturned shape.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Achieving the perfect winged eyeliner takes practice, and there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:
Starting with a Too-Thick Line: It’s always easier to build up the thickness of your liner than to thin it out. Start with a thin line and gradually thicken it to avoid overdoing it.
Skipping Primer: If you have oily eyelids, your eyeliner can smudge or transfer throughout the day. Using a primer prevents this and helps your eyeliner stay in place.
Uneven Wings: Getting both wings to match can be tricky. To help, try drawing the flicks on both eyes first before filling them in. This way, you can make adjustments to the angle or length before committing to the full look.
Not Cleaning Up Mistakes: Even professionals make mistakes when applying eyeliner. Don’t be afraid to use a cotton swab or makeup remover to clean up and sharpen your lines.
6. Pro Tips and Tricks for Perfecting Winged Eyeliner
Use Tape as a Guide: For a foolproof application, place a small piece of tape at the outer corner of your eye, angled toward your eyebrow. Use the tape as a guide for your flick, then peel it off for a perfectly sharp wing.
Anchor Your Hand: Steadying your hand is key for precision. Rest your elbow on a table or countertop, and use your pinky finger to anchor your hand on your cheek as you apply the liner.
Use a Pencil for Beginners: If you’re new to winged eyeliner, start with a pencil liner to map out the shape. Once you’re comfortable, trace over it with liquid or gel liner for a more defined look.
Fix Mistakes with Concealer: If you don’t have makeup remover handy, a small amount of concealer on an angled brush can be used to clean up edges and sharpen your wing.
Practice Makes Perfect: The key to mastering winged eyeliner is practice. Don’t get discouraged if your wings aren’t perfect right away—over time, you’ll find the technique that works best for you.
Photo by Pesce Huang | Source: www.unsplash.com
Conclusion
Achieving the perfect winged eyeliner may seem daunting, but with practice and the right tools, it can become a quick and easy part of your makeup routine. Whether you prefer a subtle wing or a dramatic cat-eye, these tips and tricks will help you master the look and create a beautiful, flattering wing every time. Just remember to start small, take your time, and don’t be afraid to adjust and perfect your technique as you go.