Whether you’re heading out for a glamorous night on the town or simply want to add a touch of sophistication to your everyday look, winged eyeliner is a makeup technique that never goes out of style. The perfectly executed wing can instantly elevate your makeup game, making your eyes appear more defined and captivating. However, achieving that flawless, symmetrical flick can be quite challenging, often resulting in frustration and smudged lines. If you’re tired of not getting it right, fear not! Follow these steps to create the perfect winged eyeliner and master this iconic look in no time.
1. Start With a Clean Canvas
Before diving into the world of winged eyeliner, it’s crucial to begin with a clean and hydrated eye area. Make sure you’ve removed any remnants of old makeup and thoroughly moisturized your lids to ensure a smooth application. By doing so, you’re providing an ideal base for your eyeliner to glide effortlessly across the skin.
2. Find the Right Tool
Choosing the correct eyeliner product can greatly impact the outcome of your winged look. Some popular options include gel, liquid, and pen eyeliners. Gel and liquid formulas generally offer more control, while pens are ideal for beginners due to their ease of use. Experiment with different types to find your preferred tool, but remember that practice makes perfect, regardless of the product you choose.
3. Invest in Quality Brushes
While some eyeliners come with built-in applicators, investing in a set of high-quality brushes can make a significant difference when it comes to achieving precision. A fine-pointed angled brush or a thin-tipped eyeliner brush allows for better control and maneuverability, helping you create sharp, clean lines.
4. Find Your Angle
Begin by visualizing the desired angle of your winged eyeliner. Using your eye’s natural contours as a guide, determine whether a slight or dramatic flick suits you best. Remember that matching the wings on both eyes can be challenging, so don’t be discouraged if they’re not identical at first. Practice makes perfect, and with time, you’ll develop a steadier hand.
5. Map Out Your Wing
Creating a roadmap for your winged eyeliner can vastly improve your accuracy. Using a neutral eyeshadow or a light pencil eyeliner, mark the three main points of your wing: the length, angle, and thickness. The length of your wing should align with the tail of your eyebrow, the angle should follow the upward slope of your lower lash line, and the thickness should complement your eye shape.
6. Start From the Outside
Begin by drawing a thin line from the outer corner of your eye towards the marked length of your wing. Use small, steady strokes to gradually build up the thickness of the line. This technique allows you to have better control over the thickness and prevents harsh, uneven lines.
7. Connect to the Inner Corner
Carefully draw a line from the outer corner towards the inner corner, ensuring it smoothly connects to your upper lash line. This step may require a bit more precision, so take your time and go slowly. If your line isn’t perfectly smooth, don’t worry. Minor imperfections can be easily corrected with a cotton swab dipped in makeup remover.
8. Fill in the Gaps
After connecting your wing to the inner corner, check for any areas that may need filling. Gently fill them in by adding more eyeliner, while maintaining a consistent line thickness. Be patient and avoid rushing through this step, as it greatly contributes to the overall finished look.
9. Clean Up Excess
To ensure sharp, crisp lines, take a clean, angled brush dipped in concealer or foundation and trace along the edges of your winged eyeliner. This step helps clean up any smudges or uneven edges, refining your look.
10. Practice, Practice, Practice
Creating the perfect winged eyeliner requires practice, patience, and perseverance. Don’t be discouraged by initial attempts that may not meet your expectations. Remember, even makeup artists had to start somewhere. Practicing regularly will help you improve your technique and develop your own signature winged eyeliner look.
By following these steps and dedicating time to practice, you’ll gradually become a winged eyeliner pro. Remember, the key to mastering this technique is practice, confidence, and a steady hand. With patience and persistence, you’ll conquer the art of winged eyeliner, ensuring flawless, captivating eyes wherever you go.
