Winged eyeliner, or the "cat-eyeliner," is a classic and versatile makeup technique that has been popularized by many beauty icons throughout history. The basic eye-catching style involves extending the waterproof eyeliner beyond the outer corners of your eyes, creating a "wing" that can vary in length, thickness, and angle depending on the desired look.
The beauty of the winged eyeliner makeup look is that it can be as sultry, eye-catching, poppy, and as soft & casual as you want. A little flick of liner can add glamour and grace, a long swipe is a great companion for a day out in the town, and a dramatic wing can be the perfect finishing touch to that bold ensemble for your party! And while all this may make nailing the ideal winged eyeliner a child's play, perfecting it can also lead to a big mess. From multiple attempts to literally look like a ghost and eventually giving up & opting for a simple eyeliner instead. Phew! We know the pain. Here is all you need to know about winged eyeliner and a step-by-step winged eyeliner guide for your ease.
Understanding Winged Eyeliner
Winged eyeliner has a rich history dating back to ancient civilizations. In Ancient Egypt, both men and women used kohl kajal to line their eyes, not only for aesthetic purposes but also to protect the eyes from the harsh sun and ward off infections. This early form of winged eyeliner was often dramatic and extended well beyond the outer corners of the eyes.
In contemporary times, winged eyeliner has become a versatile and essential part of modern beauty routines. How to apply winged eyeliner depends on the look you desire – from subtle and sophisticated to bold and dramatic, making it a staple in both everyday makeup routines and special occasion looks.
Tools Needed for Perfect Winged Eyeliner
Eyeliner - Choose The Best Type
1. Liquid Eyeliner
Liquid eyeliner is ideal for creating sharp, precise lines. It typically comes with a brush or felt-tip applicator. Liquid eyeliner pens are great for achieving a bold and dramatic winged look.
Felt-Tip Liquid Eyeliner: This is beginner-friendly due to its pen-like design, which offers more control.
Brush Tip Liquid Eyeliner: This type allows for a more fluid and flexible application, suitable for creating very fine lines.
2. Gel Eyeliner
Gel eyeliner comes in a small pot and is applied with an angled makeup brush. It offers more control and precision and is perfect for creating both subtle and bold eye makeup looks. It’s also known for its long-lasting formula.
3. Pencil Eyeliner
Pencil eyeliners are easy to use and versatile. You can use it to smudge for a softer look or sharpen for a more defined line. It is a good choice if you are a beginner or prefer a more natural look. Waterproof formula ensures longevity and prevents smudging, especially in humid conditions or for long wear.
Makeup Primer
A makeup primer is vital for creating a smooth base for your eyeliner. It helps the eyeliner adhere better and prevents it from smudging or fading throughout the day. Eye primer also evens out the skin tone on your eyelids, ensuring that the long-wear gel eyeliner goes on smoothly.
Cotton Swabs and Makeup Remover
When following your step-by-step winged eyeliner guide, mistakes are bound to happen. Having cotton swabs and makeup remover on hand can help you correct them without starting over. Use a cotton tip dipped in makeup cleaner or remover to clean up any uneven lines or to sharpen the edges of your wing.
Tape
A small piece of tape can be used as a guide to ensure your wings are even and sharp. Place the tape at an angle from your lower lash line and take it towards the end of your eyebrow before applying your eyeliner.
Angled Brush
A must-have for applying gel eyeliner. The angled shape helps create clean, sharp lines and precise wings.
Setting Powder or Eyeshadow
You can use a translucent setting powder or a matching eyeshadow to set your winged eyeliner and ensure it stays put all day. Gently dust it over the waterproof eyeliner with a small brush to lock it in place.
Step-by-Step Winged Eyeliner Guide
Creating the perfect winged eyeliner look involves several precise steps. Each stage of the process builds upon the last to ensure your wing is sharp, symmetrical, and flattering. Here’s how to apply winged eyeliner like a pro in simple steps.
Step 1: Cleanse and Prep
Begin by cleaning your eyelids to remove any oil, dirt, or makeup residue. This ensures a clean surface for your eyeliner. Use a gentle, oil-free cleanser and pat your eyelids dry with a soft towel. Apply face makeup primer to create a smooth base and help the eyeliner last longer.
Step 2: Do the Base Makeup
Complete your base makeup before applying winged eyeliner. This includes an HD foundation and concealer around the eye area. Proper base makeup helps to cover dark circles and blemishes, providing a clean canvas for your eyeliner. Set your eye base with a light dust of translucent face powder to absorb any excess oil and create a smooth surface for the eyeliner.
Step 3: Create a Wing
Look straight ahead in the mirror and visualize the angle of your wing. The ideal angle follows the natural line of your lower lash line, extending towards the end of your eyebrow. Start by drawing a small dot or dash at the point where you want your wing to end. This marks the tip of your winged eyeliner and serves as a reference for the next steps.
Step 4: Connect the Dots
Draw a thin and straight line from the outer corner of the eye to the dot or dash you created. This forms the bottom edge of your wing. Next, draw a line from the tip of the wing back to the middle of your upper lash line, creating a triangular shape. This step defines the wing and gives it structure.
Step 5: Fill in the Wing
Fill in the triangular shape with your chosen eyeliner. Ensure the area is fully covered and the wing is opaque. Use smooth, controlled strokes to maintain precision. Once the wing is filled in, thicken the line along your upper lash line to match the intensity of the wing, creating a cohesive look.
Step 6: Refine and Perfect Your Winged Eyeliner
Check both your eyes to ensure the wings appear symmetrical. Use a cotton swab dipped in micellar water or makeup remover to clean up mistakes and sharpen the edges of your wing. This step ensures your wing looks crisp and professional. Set your waterproof eyeliner with matching eyeshadow or translucent powder to make sure it lasts all day without smudging.
Tips for How to Wing Your Eyeliner
Practice! Practice! Practice
The key to mastering winged eyeliner is consistent practice. Set aside some time each day to work on your technique. Start by drawing lines on the back of your hand to get a feel for the eyeliner’s texture and how it flows. When you feel more confident, move on to practicing your eyes. Don’t be discouraged by initial mistakes – every attempt helps you improve your skills and gain steadiness in your hand.
Use Tape for Guidance
Tape is a great tool for beginners who wish to learn how to apply winged eyeliner. It ensures the wings are sharp and symmetrical. Take a small piece of tape and place it at a 45-degree angle from the outer corner of your eye, or depending on the wing look, take it towards the end of your eyebrow. This will act as a guide for your wings. Once you’ve applied your liquid or gel eyeliner and are satisfied with the shape, gently remove the tape slowly to reveal a clean, crisp line. This method is particularly helpful for those with unsteady hands or those who struggle with creating even wings on both eyes.
Experiment with Different Looks
Winged eyeliner is incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different styles to find what suits you best. Try varying the length, thickness, and angle of your wing to see how it changes the overall look. You can also play with different colors – black is classic, but colored eyeliners can add a fun and unique twist. Additionally, experiment with double wings, graphic lines, or adding glitter for special occasions. Exploring different looks helps you discover new techniques and keeps your makeup routine exciting.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying Winged Eyeliner
Uneven Lengths of Wings
One of the most frequent challenges is achieving symmetrical winged eyeliner, which has uneven lengths and can make your eyes look mismatched and throw off the entire look. To avoid this, start by marking the desired endpoints of your wings with small dots on both eyes. Make sure the dots are at the same angle and distance from the outer corner of your eyes. Use these dots as a guide to draw the wings. Take a step back and check for symmetry before filling in the lines. Using tape can also help guide your lines and maintain even lengths.
Smudging and Fading
Smudging and fading can ruin the crisp, clean lines of your winged eyeliner. This often happens due to oily eyelids, poor-quality products, or not setting your makeup properly. To prevent smudging, start with a good eye or face primer to create a smooth base and help the eyeliner adhere better. Choose a long-lasting, waterproof eyeliner to withstand all-day wear.
Thick Lines
Thick lines can overwhelm your eyes and make the look appear heavy and unrefined. If you are a beginner, you can often struggle with this when trying to correct mistakes, leading to progressively thicker lines. To maintain control, start with a thin and dotted line close to your lash line and gradually build up the thickness if needed. Use small, controlled strokes rather than trying to draw one continuous line. If your line becomes too thick, use a cotton swab dipped in makeup remover to thin it out and sharpen the edges.
Winged eyeliner isn't just a makeup technique. A perfect step-by-step winged eyeliner guide can help you transform your look and enhance your natural beauty with a touch of sophistication. Whether you prefer a classic, subtle wing or a bold, dramatic statement, mastering winged eyeliner skill allows you to express your unique style and personality effortlessly. Daily Life Forever52 offers a range of high-quality waterproof eyeliner products designed to make application seamless and precise. From easy-to-use liquid eyeliners to versatile gel formulas, Daily Life Forever52 ensures that achieving the perfect winged eyeliner is no longer a task. Experiment and create stunning eye looks with confidence while discovering the power of winged eyeliner looks.
