An Ode to Eyeliner

I have just started wearing eyeliner at the age of 45. Don’t get me wrong, I always own an eyeliner or two but would rarely end up using them. I just didn’t think it looked good on me. My eyes are small, and sometimes eyeliner can make small eyes appear even smaller. Therefore for decade I used the classic eyeshadow technique of dark color in the crease, lighter color on the lid with some mascara. As time changes new knowledge is gained. Browsing around Amazon I have made some amazing discoveries. Also Instagram videos have shed much light on makeup techniques for me.

While browsing on Amazon, I happened upon an eyeliner stamp. I have always liked the cat eye look. I have been a fan of 50’s and Rockabilly style for many years, but I never thought that eyeliner looked good on me. I have since learned that the key is in type of product used and the proper technique for your eye shape.

I ordered the stamp and tried it, and it worked out pretty good. I looked good with a cat eye after all. The best attempt I had at eyeliner thus far. However, it was frequently hard for me to get the slant even but as I did it more I felt more confident and wanted to try different types of wings. I have an upturn to my eyes and they are also a bit hooded.

Liquid eyeliners have come a long way and are easier to use. The felt eyeliner is much easier to use than the dip liquid eyeliners. I was still having problems with getting the wing even and the right slant so I ordered these eyeshadow and eyeliner stencils. I did not end up sticking these on my face because I wear concealer and did not want to peel it right off, but I just used it as a guide. This worked wonders for me, along with felt eyeliner realization. I love this Loreal felt eyeliner. It has great longevity and doe not smear throughout the day.

One thing I have learned is that you become better and better over time. Now I can even do a cat or fox eyeliner with no guide and with regular eyeliner as well. I also learned that on me, I don’t like a lot of heavy eyeshadow with the liner so just a bone or other light, matte color over the lid and crease is all I do if I am wanting to wear eyeliner.

Cat Eyeliner: Cat eyeliner, also known as winged eyeliner, is a classic and timeless makeup technique. It involves drawing a winged line on the upper lash line that extends outward from the outer corner of the eye. The wing can be subtle and soft or bold and dramatic, depending on the desired effect. The key characteristic of cat eyeliner is the upward and outward extension of the wing, which is meant to mimic the elongated, almond-shaped eyes of a cat.

Fox Eyeliner: Fox eyeliner is a relatively newer trend and is inspired by the appearance of a fox’s eye, hence the name. This style focuses on creating a winged eyeliner look that is more elongated and horizontal compared to the classic cat eyeliner. Instead of a wing that extends upwards and outwards, the fox eyeliner wing is drawn in a more horizontal direction, following the natural curve of the lower lash line. This results in a wing that appears wider and more elongated, giving the eyes a foxy, lifted appearance.

It really helps to go along with your eye shape rather than trying to force something that may not be as flattering. This only led to frustration for me, but now I can incorporate new trends to go along with what suits me. Here are some eyeliner techniques for various eye shapes:

1. Almond Eyes: Almond eyes are considered the ideal eye shape as they are well-proportioned and symmetrical. For this eye shape, you have the freedom to experiment with various eyeliner styles. A classic technique is to line the upper lash line with a thin to medium line, gradually thickening it towards the outer corner. You can also extend the eyeliner slightly past the outer corner for a subtle winged effect.
2. Round Eyes: Round eyes have a more prominent curve on the top and bottom, making them appear larger. To elongate the eyes, use a slightly thicker line on the upper lash line and extend it slightly past the outer corner to create a subtle wing. Avoid lining the entire lower lash line, as this can make the eyes appear even rounder. Instead, focus on the outer half of the lower lash line for a more lifted look.
3. Monolid Eyes: Monolid eyes don’t have a visible crease, so the eyeliner technique should aim to add depth and dimension. Tightlining the upper waterline can make the lashes appear fuller without overwhelming the lid space. For a more defined look, use a thin line on the upper lash line and extend it slightly upward and outward at the outer corner. This can create the illusion of a lifted eye shape.
4. Hooded Eyes: Hooded eyes have a fold of skin that partially covers the eyelid, making the lid space less visible. To define hooded eyes, use a thin line on the upper lash line, staying close to the lashes. Avoid thick or heavy eyeliner, as it can make the eyes look smaller. A small flick or subtle wing at the outer corner can also help lift the eyes and create the illusion of a larger lid space.
5. Upturned Eyes: Upturned eyes have a natural lift at the outer corners. To balance this shape, apply eyeliner to the upper lash line, starting from the inner corner and gradually thickening it towards the outer corner. You can create a slight wing at the outer corner to further enhance the upward lift. Keep the lower lash line minimal to maintain the focus on the upper lid.
6. Downturned Eyes: Downturned eyes have a slight droop at the outer corners. The goal is to lift and elongate the eyes. Apply eyeliner along the upper lash line, extending it slightly upwards at the outer corner. Avoid extending the line downward, as it can accentuate the droop. Keep the lower lash line soft and thin to prevent further pulling the eyes downward.

This post contains affiliate links. I may receive a commission if you click on a link and make a purchase. For more information please refer to my Disclaimer Statement (link in footer).