Winged eyeliner is a timeless makeup look that can elevate any eye makeup style, giving it a bold and dramatic flair. Whether you’re aiming for a subtle flick or a bold cat-eye, mastering the art of the winged liner can be a game-changer in your makeup routine. It can be a little tricky at first, but with a little practice and the right technique, anyone can achieve a perfect winged eyeliner. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you nail that flawless wing every time.

1. Gather Your Tools

Before you begin, make sure you have everything you need. The tools and products you use can make a significant difference in the outcome of your winged eyeliner.

• Eyeliner: Liquid, gel, or pencil eyeliner works, but liquid eyeliner is usually the easiest to achieve a sharp, defined wing.
• Angled Brush: If you’re using gel eyeliner, an angled brush will help you create clean, sharp lines.
• Tape (optional): For beginners, using a piece of tape as a guide can help create a clean wing.
• Cotton Swabs: These are helpful for correcting mistakes or cleaning up any smudges.

2. Prep Your Lids

Start with clean and dry eyelids. To ensure your eyeliner stays in place all day, it’s a good idea to apply an eyeshadow primer. This will help smooth out your eyelids, prevent creasing, and create a better base for your eyeliner. If you don’t have a primer, you can use a small amount of foundation or concealer to prep the lids.

3. Create a Guide (Optional)

If you’re new to winged eyeliner, using tape can act as a guide to help you create that sharp, clean wing. Place a small piece of tape at the outer corner of your eye, angling it towards the end of your eyebrow. This will give you a straight edge to follow for the perfect wing.

Alternatively, you can skip the tape and use your lower lash line as a natural guide. Imagine a line extending from the outer corner of your eye towards the end of your eyebrow, and that’s the direction your wing should go.

4. Draw the Outline of the Wing

Begin by drawing the outer wing. Start at the outer corner of your eye and draw a small line following the natural angle of your lower lash line. This will form the tail of your wing. Keep the line thin at first; you can always build it up later if you want a bolder look.

Make sure the angle of the wing matches the shape of your eye and face. If you’re unsure, try to make it as symmetrical as possible by referencing the opposite eye.

5. Connect the Wing to Your Upper Lash Line

Now that you’ve got the basic shape of the wing, it’s time to connect it to your upper lash line. Start from the inner corner of your eye and draw a thin line along your lash line, gradually thickening it as you go towards the outer corner. Once you reach the point where the wing starts, connect the outer corner of the wing to the lash line with a smooth, clean line.

If you prefer a more natural look, you can keep the line thin and subtle, or if you’re going for a more dramatic cat-eye, feel free to thicken the line for more impact.

6. Fill in the Wing

Once you have the outline of your wing and the lash line connected, fill in the winged area with eyeliner. Take your time and fill in any gaps to ensure the eyeliner is opaque and smooth. If you’re using gel eyeliner with a brush, gently press the brush to fill in the wing without creating harsh lines.

Be careful not to let the product smudge outside of the lines. If you’re using liquid eyeliner, use small strokes to fill in the shape.

7. Perfect the Shape

Now that the wing is filled in, check both eyes to ensure the wings are even and symmetrical. If one wing is higher or lower than the other, use a cotton swab to clean up the edges or make adjustments. You can also use makeup remover to gently clean up any mistakes and reshape the wing to your liking.

If you want your wing to be more dramatic, you can extend the line slightly, but be sure to match the length of both wings.

8. Add Mascara

Once you’ve perfected your winged eyeliner, apply a few coats of mascara to your upper lashes to add volume and definition. Mascara will help your eyes stand out and complete the look.

If you want a more defined eye, you can also apply a little eyeliner to your lower lash line or waterline. Just be sure to keep it subtle to avoid overwhelming the winged eyeliner on the top.

9. Set Your Makeup

To ensure your eyeliner stays in place all day, use a setting spray. This will help lock in your makeup and prevent smudging or fading. If you have oily skin, you might also want to set your eyeliner with a light dusting of translucent powder.

Tips for Perfect Winged Eyeliner:

• Use Small Strokes: Don’t try to draw the wing in one go. Using small strokes will give you more control and a cleaner, more precise look.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Winged eyeliner can be tricky at first, but don’t get discouraged. The more you practice, the better you’ll get.
• Try Different Shapes: Experiment with different wing shapes and sizes. A subtle, elongated wing can work for everyday wear, while a dramatic cat-eye is perfect for evening looks.
• Use a Primer: Eyeliner can smudge throughout the day, especially if you have oily eyelids. Using a primer or setting spray will help your eyeliner last longer.
• Go for Waterproof: If you’re worried about your eyeliner smudging or fading, opt for waterproof formulas that will stay intact no matter what.

Conclusion

Winged eyeliner is a classic and striking look that can enhance any makeup style, whether you’re going for a subtle cat-eye or a bold, dramatic wing. With the right technique and a little practice, you can master the art of winged eyeliner and make it your signature look. Just remember to be patient and take your time—before long, you’ll be able to create perfect wings with ease. Happy lining!