How to Do Different Eyeliner Styles

Achieving the perfect eyeliner look can elevate any makeup style, but mastering different techniques can sometimes feel daunting. Whether you’re aiming for a classic wing, a bold cat eye, or a soft smudged effect, understanding the basics of eyeliner application is key.

This guide will walk you through how to do different eyeliner styles, offering tips and tricks to help you create flawless lines that complement your individual features and personal aesthetic.

Why Eyeliner is an Essential Part of Makeup

Eyeliner is a versatile and powerful tool in the world of makeup, capable of transforming the eyes and enhancing their natural beauty. It helps define the eyes, making them appear larger, brighter, and more expressive. Whether used subtly to create a soft, natural look or dramatically for a statement style, eyeliner adds depth and dimension to any makeup application.

Its ability to adapt to various techniques and occasions is what makes it an essential part of any makeup routine. Furthermore, eyeliner can frame the eyes to bring balance to the face, complementing other elements of a makeup look. From everyday wear to bold, artistic designs, the possibilities with eyeliner are endless, cementing its place as a staple in every makeup bag.

10 Methods How to Do Different Eyeliner Styles

1. Classic Winged Eyeliner

The winged eyeliner, also known as the “cat-eye,” is a timeless favorite that elongates the eyes and adds instant sophistication. To create this look, begin by drawing a thin line from the inner corner of your upper lash line toward the outer corner.

Once you’ve reached the outer edge, flick the liner upward following the angle of your lower lash line. Connect the tip of the flick back to your lash line, forming a small triangle, and fill it in. Precision is key, so using a felt-tip liquid eyeliner or a fine gel brush ensures a clean, sharp wing. Practice and patience are essential, especially when trying to achieve symmetry on both eyes.

2. Tightlining

Tightlining is a technique where eyeliner is applied directly to the upper waterline, making your lashes appear fuller without visible makeup. To do this, gently lift your upper eyelid and use a waterproof pencil eyeliner to fill in the space between the lashes on the waterline.

This method enhances your eye shape subtly and is ideal for natural, no-makeup makeup looks. Be sure to use a smudge-proof formula to avoid transferring the product onto your lower lash line. It’s a simple but powerful style that gives definition without drama.

3. Smudged Smokey Eyeliner

The smudged eyeliner look delivers a sultry, lived-in vibe that pairs perfectly with smokey eyes. Start by lining your upper and lower lash lines with a soft kohl or pencil eyeliner. Don’t worry about neatness—this look embraces imperfection. Using a smudge brush or a cotton swab, gently blend the liner outward to diffuse the edges. You can layer with a dark eyeshadow to intensify the effect and set the liner. This style works well for both daytime edge and dramatic evening glamour, depending on the intensity of the smudging.

4. Graphic Eyeliner

Graphic eyeliner is bold, artistic, and ideal for fashion-forward or editorial-inspired looks. This style breaks away from traditional lines and incorporates unique shapes, floating creases, double wings, or geometric patterns. Use a long-wear liquid or gel liner with a precise applicator. Start by outlining your desired shape lightly and then build on it with confident, sharp strokes. Because graphic eyeliner is meant to stand out, pair it with neutral eyeshadow or bare lids to keep the focus on the liner’s artistry.

5. Natural Lash-Line Definition

For a soft, everyday style, opt for lash-line definition that enhances your eyes subtly. Use a brown or dark gray pencil liner for a more natural appearance. Start at the outer two-thirds of your upper lash line and draw short, feathery strokes between your lashes, mimicking their growth pattern. Keep the line thin and close to the lashes. This method is great for beginners and works wonderfully for a no-fuss, polished look. It adds quiet dimension without looking overdone.

6. Double Winged Eyeliner

Double winged eyeliner is a playful and dramatic variation of the classic wing. Begin by creating a standard winged liner on your upper lid. Then, draw a second wing extending from the outer third of your lower lash line, mirroring the top wing. Ensure there’s a small gap between the two wings for a crisp look. You can fill the space with a contrasting color or leave it clean for a graphic finish. This style is particularly striking on almond and upturned eye shapes and pairs beautifully with bold lipstick.

7. Inner Corner Accent Liner

Adding eyeliner to the inner corners of your eyes is a unique way to create intrigue and depth. Use a fine brush or pointed liquid liner to draw a small triangle or line from the inner tear duct extending slightly inward or downward. This avant-garde technique works especially well with bold eye makeup or metallic finishes. It gives a mysterious, editorial edge to your overall look and can help emphasize close-set or wide-set eyes when done with balance in mind.

8. Reverse Eyeliner

Reverse eyeliner flips the script by applying the liner primarily to the lower lash line instead of the upper. Start by lining the lower lash line with a gel or pencil liner and then smudge it for a smoky effect or keep it sharp for boldness. Pairing it with neutral upper lids creates a striking contrast. This edgy style accentuates the lower portion of your eyes and works well with both light and dark liner shades, especially if you want to draw attention downward or experiment with alternative styles.

9. Feline Flick with Extended Inner Corner

A twist on the cat-eye, the feline flick incorporates both a dramatic wing and an elongated inner corner. Begin with your usual winged liner on the outer eye. Then, use the tip of your liner pen to draw a sharp point extending slightly toward the bridge of your nose from the inner corner of your eye. This creates an exotic, almond-like shape and adds intensity to your gaze. It’s a favorite among makeup artists for runway and photo shoots due to its captivating effect.

10. Colored Eyeliner Styles

Colored eyeliner can instantly brighten your eyes and elevate your entire makeup look. Whether you choose electric blue, emerald green, or neon pink, the application technique remains similar to classic or winged liner styles.

Use a gel or liquid colored liner along the upper lash line or create a bold graphic look using vibrant shades. Colored eyeliner works well on its own or in combination with neutral tones for a pop of color. It’s especially flattering when chosen to contrast or complement your eye color, making your eyes stand out even more.

Maintenance and Upkeep

To ensure your colored eyeliner stays vibrant and flawless throughout the day, proper maintenance and upkeep are key. Start by prepping your eyelids with a good-quality primer to prevent smudging and enhance the pigmentation of your liner. Opt for waterproof or long-lasting formulas to keep your liner intact, especially in humid or long-wear situations.

If touch-ups are needed, carry a small angled brush or a cotton swab dipped in makeup remover to clean up any smudges or uneven edges. At the end of the day, use a gentle eye makeup remover to take off the product without tugging at the delicate skin around your eyes, maintaining overall skin health and ensuring a clean palette for future applications.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Uneven Application: If your liner appears uneven, use a cotton swab dipped in makeup remover to gently correct any mistakes. For a smoother application, stabilize your hand by resting your elbow on a flat surface. 
• Smudging: To minimize smudging, set your eyeliner with a matching eyeshadow by gently pressing the shadow on top of the liner using a small, flat brush. Avoid touching your eyes throughout the day to reduce transfer. 
• Fading: For long-lasting wear, always start with an eye primer or a light layer of concealer on your lids. Opt for waterproof or gel-based formulas as these tend to stay put for extended periods. 
• Difficulty Creating a Wing: Use a piece of tape or a credit card as a guide to achieve a sharp and precise wing. Alternatively, you can sketch your wing with a pencil liner first and go over it with liquid or gel eyeliner for a clean finish. 

By addressing these common issues, you can achieve a flawless eyeliner look that lasts throughout the day.

Conclusion

Eyeliner is one of the most versatile tools in your makeup kit. With the right products, tools, and techniques, you can achieve a wide array of styles to suit any occasion, mood, or creative impulse. Whether you prefer subtle definition or dramatic flair, these ten eyeliner methods provide a comprehensive guide to expressing your individuality through your eyes.

Practice each technique with patience and adjust according to your eye shape and personal taste. With time, you’ll master the art of eyeliner and unlock countless ways to enhance your natural beauty. Now that you know how to do different eyeliner styles, try it yourself today and feel good about completing such a big DIY job!