“Go Ahead…Wing It!”

There’s no better way to get peep-show worthy peepers ;) than to do a winged eyeline (also known as a “cat eye”). You can never go wrong with black, but rich, sultry jewel tones like eggplant and teal can add a vibrant splash of color to this sexy look.

To do this, place your elbow on a hard surface and pull your eyelid taut with one hand. With the other hand, start to draw a line along your top lashline, working from the inner corner of your eye outwards. Keep the line as thin and as even as possible at first. Go over the line again, but now, as you move towards the outer corner of your eye, gradually start to thicken the line and create an upward curve. You can go out a little past where your lashline naturally ends, but be careful not to overdo it (unless you’re going for a dramatic, Cleopatra-esque look!). The most important thing to remember is to take it slow…and build, build, build! It’s much easier to add to the line to get the desired effect than to take away. ;)

It definitely takes some practice to nail this, but there are certain tools that you can start with to help you learn (think chopsticks connected with a rubber band or a bike with training wheels). See my tips below and I promise that, in no time, you’ll be an expert at winging it!

Beginner-level DKBeauties
Use a liquid liner that comes in pen or marker form. My favorites are Loreal Voluminous Mistake-Proof Marker (for black and brown) and Kat Von D Tattoo Liner (for fun colors). Because these are in marker form, they help your hand stay steady and make it easier to draw a straight line. One thing to be wary of though: you may go a little too thick at first with these. But hey, that’s what makeup remover is for, so be fearless!

Intermediate-level DKBeauties
Feel free venture to a liquid liner that comes in a small pot or tube (where the “wand”/dip-stick applicator screws in, much like a tube of mascara). My go-to, as I’ve mentioned before, is Loreal Lineur Intense Felt Tip Eyeliner, but MAC makes some good options as well (Superslick Liquid Eye Liner comes in a wide variety of whimsical colors). These applicators are a little less sturdy, but allow for a nice fluidity when drawing the eyeline. Before you know it, you’ll be a smoooooth operator. ;)

Advanced-level DKBeauties
Get your gel on. ;) Gel liner usually comes in a pot and you need your own, separate brush to apply the product (I recommend the combo of MAC’s Fluidline formula and #210 Precise Eye Liner Brush). I love gel liner because it has a sleek appearance, lasts all day without smudging, and really allows you to achieve a sharp, precise line. Be careful not to put too much product on the brush, though, because it can lead to clumping. A little goes a long way.

That’s a wrap for today, my loves! Enjoy the weekend!

Always,
D