Back To Basics Beauty Series: How to Perfect the Winged Eyeliner Look
Hey everyone, I'm Meg Ann Lee and this is our last makeup related post in my Back-to-Basics Beauty series. If you have been reading along with me, you know we have 5 previous posts answering your basic beauty questions. This week we are tackling a big one, how to draw the perfect eyeliner. Doing a winged eyeliner is one of the main techniques I still get asked to do as a makeup artist because it can instantly elevate your makeup look to SLAY. This week, I am sharing the tools I love, the technique I use and how you can recreate it at home. Whether you're a makeup rookie or someone looking to refine their skills, here's how to master the iconic winged liner.
Have the Right Tools
Before diving into the technique, having the right tools is essential. Here are some of the most popular eyeliner products on the market that are worth adding to your makeup bag:
- Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner: This pen-like liner has a precise tip and stays put all day.
- KVD Beauty Tattoo Liner: Known for its precision and long-lasting formula, this one is a fan favorite.
- Maybelline Hyper Easy Liquid Liner: A drugstore favorite, it glides on smoothly and is beginner-friendly.
- NYX Epic Ink Liner: Offers a perfect balance of affordability and precision, with a flexible
If you're a makeup artist reading this, you would not use these on clients. Why? You can't effectively sanitize the applicators client to client. On clients you MUST use a liner brush that you can sanitize. The amount of newbie MUAs I see using unsanitary techniques is wild. Do your research when looking for a service provider and check out my blog post HERE about what your makeup artist wished your knew!
Here are a few of my favorite brushes in my pro makeup kit to use on clients:
Strategic Step by Step Techniques for a Flawless Wing
1.Prep Your Eye Area: The key to a smooth and long-lasting wing is to start with a clean, prepped eyelid. First, apply a lightweight eye primer or a bit of concealer to neutralize any oil on the lids. This will create a smooth surface and ensure your liner doesn't smudge throughout the day.
2.Start with the Right Products: Whether you prefer a liquid, gel, or pencil eyeliner, the key is to use a formula that glides smoothly and stays in place. A pen-style liquid liner is the easiest to control for most beginners.
3.Find the Right Angle: A successful wing is all about the angle. This can change based on your eye shape and your desired look. Imagine an invisible line extending from your lower lash line up toward the tail of your brow. This helps you create a line that lifts the eye, rather than pulling it down.If you're nervous about free handing, you can use a small piece of tape as a guide by placing it at the angle of your desired wing.
4.Map Out Your Wing: Draw a small line from the outer corner of your eye, extending towards the end of your eyebrow .This is the angle you'll want to follow to create the most flattering wing for your eye shape. Then, connect that line to your lash line, forming a small triangle. The triangle is KEY. This outline ensures symmetry and helps with filling in the rest of the liner.
5. Work in Layers: Instead of trying to draw the entire wing in one swoop, build the shape gradually. Start thin and add thickness as needed. This gives you more control over the final look and allows for easier adjustments if needed.
6. Refine the Line : Go back over your lash line to smooth and sharpen any areas as needed. A Q-tip dipped in makeup remover can be your best friend for cleaning up any mistakes or sharpening the edge of the wing.
7. Finishing Touches: After your wing is in place, you can finish with a few coats of mascara to open up your eyes, or add a pair of lashes for extra drama. You can also gently smudge a bit of shadow on your lower lash line to balance out the look.
Adjustments for Eye Shape
Different eye shapes may need slightly different techniques and if I can give you ONE tip it is: Create the outline while the eye is open.
- Hooded Eyes: Focus on making the wing visible even when your eyes are open. Start your wing slightly lower and extend it out more horizontally rather than upward.
- Round Eyes: Create a more elongated wing to help balance out the natural roundness of your eye.
- Almond Eyes: These eyes suit almost any winged liner style, so have fun experimenting with different angles and thicknesses.
Practice Makes Perfect
Winged eyeliner is a makeup technique that may take a little practice, but with patience, you'll master it in no time. Start with shorter wings if you're just getting started, and don't be afraid to make mistakes- theres always makeup remover! With time, you'll get a feel for your eye shape and the techniques that work best for you.
Ready to try your hand at the perfect wing? Grab one of those tried-and-true liners linked above and go for it! <3
Check out my other makeup related blog posts below:
