The Ultimate Guide to Eyeliner Styles: From Classic to Cat Eye

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On the JJ Barnes Blog, get ready to perfect your eye makeup with this ultimate guide to eyeliner styles.

Eyeliner is the magical wand of makeup, transforming your eyes into mesmerizing focal points.

In this guide, we’ll explore the enchanting world of eyeliner styles, from the classic elegance of the timeless line to the bold glamour of the cat eye.

Get ready to unlock tips and tricks that will elevate your eyeliner game and discover which styles best complement your unique eye shape and personality.

Whether you’re heading to a casual brunch or a glamorous night out, this guide will ensure you have the perfect eyeliner look for every occasion.

1. The Classic Line

The classic eyeliner look is a staple that never goes out of style.

This timeless approach involves a smooth, straight line along the upper lash line, enhancing the natural beauty of your eyes. Perfect for everyday wear, the classic line works well with any makeup style and is suitable for all occasions.

To achieve this look, start by choosing your preferred eyeliner type—pencil for a softer look, gel for a more defined line, or liquid for a bold finish.

1. Begin at the inner corner of your eye and gently draw a line to the outer corner, keeping it as close to the lash line as possible.
2. For a little extra flair, you can slightly thicken the line towards the outer corner.
3. Don’t forget to set it with a bit of translucent powder to ensure it lasts all day!

Unique insights: If you’re new to eyeliner, a pencil is often easier to control, especially when creating the classic line. Practicing on your hand first can help build confidence.

Tips: If you make a mistake, a cotton swab dipped in makeup remover can be a quick fix.

Affiliate products: Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Eyeliner, Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner, NYX Professional Makeup Retractable Eye Liner.

Product Recommendations:
• Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner
• NYX Professional Makeup Retractable Eye Liner

2. The Winged Look

Ah, the winged eyeliner! This style adds a touch of drama and sophistication that has been loved by makeup enthusiasts for decades.

The winged look features an extended flick at the outer corner of the eye, giving an illusion of lifted and elongated eyes. It’s perfect for both casual and formal events, making it a versatile choice.

To master the winged look, follow these steps:
1. Start by drawing a thin line along your upper lash line, extending it slightly past the outer corner of your eye.
2. From that point, draw an upward flick that follows the natural curve of your lower lash line.
3. Connect this flick back to the line you drew along your lash line, filling in any gaps for an even look.

Unique insights: The key to a perfect wing is patience. Don’t rush, and remember that practice makes perfect! Also, using tape can help create a clean edge.

Tips: If you have hooded eyes, consider angling the wing slightly higher to keep it visible when your eyes are open.

Affiliate products: Kat Von D Tattoo Eyeliner, L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Last Waterproof Pencil Eyeliner, Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil.

Product Recommendations:
• Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
• NYX Epic Ink Liner
• Maybelline Eye Studio Master Precise Liquid Eyeliner

3. The Cat Eye

The cat eye is an iconic look that exudes confidence and allure.

Characterized by its sharp, dramatic wing and defined lines, this style dates back to the glamorous Hollywood era. It’s bold, yet playful, making it a favorite for nights out or special occasions.

To create the perfect cat eye, consider the following steps:
1. Begin with a classic line along your upper lash line, just like in the classic look.
2. Extend the line outward and upward, creating a sharp flick at the outer corner.
3. For a more dramatic effect, you can thicken the line as you go, ensuring it’s more pronounced.
4. You can also add a touch of eyeshadow for depth and dimension.

Unique insights: The cat eye can be modified to suit your eye shape. For round eyes, a more pronounced flick elongates the eye, while almond eyes can rock a bolder, thicker line.

Tips: A good primer can help your eyeliner stay put, especially if you’re dancing the night away.

Affiliate products: Smashbox Always On Liquid Eyeliner, NARS Eyeliner Pencil, Clinique Pretty Easy Liquid Eyelining Pen.

Product Recommendations:
• Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner
• Maybelline Eye Studio Master Precise Liquid Eyeliner
• Kat Von D Tattoo Liner.

4. The Reverse Cat Eye

For those who love to experiment, the reverse cat eye is an exciting twist on the classic look.

Instead of defining the upper lash line, this style focuses on the lower lash line, creating a unique and bold statement. Perfect for adding an edge to your makeup routine, this look is becoming increasingly popular among beauty influencers.

To achieve the reverse cat eye:
1. Start by lining the lower lash line with a dark eyeliner, extending it toward the outer corner.
2. Create a wing by flicking it upwards, similar to the traditional cat eye but focusing on the bottom.
3. For added drama, you can smudge the liner slightly for a smoky effect.

Unique insights: This style works wonderfully with bright or bold eyeshadows on the lids, allowing for a playful contrast.

Tips: A nude or white eyeliner on the waterline can help your eyes look larger and more awake.

Affiliate products: Tarte Tarteist Double Take Eyeliner, Urban Decay 24/7 Waterline Eye Pencil, Benefit Cosmetics Roller Liner Liquid Eyeliner.

Product Recommendations:
• Tarte Tarteist Double Take Eyeliner
• Urban Decay 24/7 Waterline Eye Pencil
• Benefit Cosmetics Roller Liner Liquid Eyeliner

5. The Smoky Eye Liner

The smoky eye liner is all about creating a sultry and seductive look.

Unlike the precise lines of traditional eyeliner styles, the smoky eye liner embraces a softer, blended approach, making it perfect for a night out or a romantic date. This style adds depth and drama to the eyes without the need for sharp lines.

To achieve this look:
1. Start with a dark eyeliner pencil or gel liner and apply it along the lash line.
2. Using a smudging brush or your fingertip, blend the liner upwards and outwards for a smoky effect.
3. You can layer different shades of eyeshadow to enhance the smoky look, focusing on dark grays, blacks, or even deep jewel tones.
4. Finish with voluminous mascara for an eye-catching finish.

Unique insights: For a softer appearance, try using a brown eyeliner instead of black. It can give a softer, more romantic vibe.

Tips: Always set your makeup with a setting spray to keep it intact throughout the night.

Affiliate products: Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara, Charlotte Tilbury Rock ‘N’ Kohl Eyeliner, Urban Decay Naked Smoky Palette.

Product Recommendations:
• Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
• NYX Professional Makeup Jumbo Eye Pencil
• L’Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Last Waterproof Pencil Eyeliner

6. The Graphic Liner

For the bold and adventurous, graphic liner is a creative and artistic approach to eyeliner.

This style breaks the boundaries of traditional eyeliner, allowing for unique shapes, colors, and designs that express individuality. It’s perfect for fashion-forward events, festivals, or simply for making a statement.

To create graphic liner:
1. Use a liquid or gel liner for precision.
2. Experiment with different shapes, such as geometric designs or abstract lines, and don’t be afraid to play with color!
3. A steady hand is key, so practice your designs on a piece of paper before going to your eyes.

Unique insights: Graphic liner pairs beautifully with minimal makeup on the rest of your face, letting your eyes take center stage.

Tips: Keep makeup remover handy for any mistakes, as these designs can be intricate.

Affiliate products: NYX Professional Makeup Vivid Brights Liquid Liner, Kat Von D Ink Liner, Fenty Beauty Flyliner Longwear Liquid Eyeliner.

Product Recommendations:
• NYX Professional Makeup Vivid Brights Liquid Liner
• Kat Von D Ink Liner
• Fenty Beauty Flyliner Longwear Liquid Eyeliner

7. The Colored Eyeliner

Colored eyeliner is the perfect way to have fun with your eye makeup while adding a pop of color to your look.

Whether it’s a bright blue, deep green, or playful purple, colored eyeliner can enhance your eye color and add a unique twist to any outfit.

To incorporate colored eyeliner into your look:
1. You can use colored eyeliner on the upper lash line, lower lash line, or even both.
2. For a subtle look, use a colored liner as a pop of color on the lower lash line, paired with a classic black or brown on the top.
3. For a bolder statement, try a full colored line on both the top and bottom.

Unique insights: Complementing your colored eyeliner with matching eyeshadow can create a cohesive look.

Tips: If you’re unsure about bold colors, start with softer shades to ease into the trend.

Affiliate products: Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in bright colors, Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner in bold hues, and NYX Epic Wear Liner Stick for vibrant colors.

Product Recommendations:
• Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil
• Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner
• NYX Epic Wear Liner Stick

8. The Tightline Technique

Tightlining is a secret weapon for achieving a fuller lash look without the need for heavy eyeliner.

This technique involves applying eyeliner to the waterline and the upper lash line, creating the illusion of thicker lashes. It’s perfect for those who prefer a more natural look but still want to enhance their eyes.

To tightline:
1. Use a waterproof pencil for best results.
2. Gently lift your eyelid and apply the eyeliner directly to the waterline, as close to the lash roots as possible.
3. You can also apply a bit of liner along the upper lash line if you want added definition.

Unique insights: Tightlining works beautifully with a coat of mascara to enhance the effect of fuller lashes.

Tips: If you struggle with applying eyeliner to the waterline, try looking straight ahead while applying the liner to ensure accuracy.

Affiliate products: Urban Decay 24/7 Waterline Eye Pencil, Tarte Tarteist Clay Paint Liner, Revlon ColorStay Liquid Eye Pen.

Product Recommendations:
• Maybelline New York Eyeliner Pencil
• NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner
• Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner

9. The Double Liner

Double liner is a stylish twist that adds depth and uniqueness to your eyeliner game.

This technique involves layering two different eyeliner colors—usually a classic black or dark shade paired with a fun color or metallic for an eye-catching effect. It’s perfect for those who want to stand out while maintaining some traditional elements.

To achieve double liner:
1. Start with your first liner (usually black) along the upper lash line.
2. Once dry, add a second line above it with a colored or metallic eyeliner, creating a striking contrast.
3. You can also apply the second liner to the lower lash line for a bolder look.

Unique insights: Experimenting with different colors can help you find combinations that enhance your natural eye color.

Tips: A steady hand is crucial, so take your time and practice to achieve the perfect placement.

Affiliate products: Fenty Beauty Flypencil Longwear Pencil Eyeliner, L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Last Waterproof Pencil Eyeliner, Sephora Collection Colorful Waterproof Eyeliner.

Product Recommendations:
• Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner
• NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner
• Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil.

10. The Floating Liner

Floating liner is a modern trend that’s taking the beauty world by storm!

Rather than adhering to the traditional lash line, this style features a line of eyeliner that hovers above the crease of the eyelid, creating a bold and contemporary look. It’s perfect for those who love to experiment with their makeup.

To create floating liner:
1. Use a gel or liquid eyeliner for the best precision.
2. Draw a line above your crease, following the natural shape of your eyelid.
3. It can be a simple line or a more intricate design—let your creativity shine!

Unique insights: Pairing floating liner with soft eyeshadow on the lid can balance the boldness of the eyeliner.

Tips: Practice on paper to find the perfect placement before applying it to your eyes.

Affiliate products: NYX Professional Makeup Vivid Brights Liquid Liner, Kat Von D Tattoo Liner, Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner.

Product Recommendations:
• NYX Professional Makeup Vivid Brights Liquid Liner
• Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eye Liner

11. The Ombre Liner

Ombre liner adds a fun and playful twist to your eyeliner routine!

This style blends two or more shades of eyeliner together, creating a beautiful gradient effect that can be both soft and dramatic. Ombre liner is perfect for those who want to step outside the box and express themselves creatively.

To achieve this look:
1. Start with a darker eyeliner at the outer corner of your eye.
2. Blend in a lighter shade towards the inner corner, creating a seamless transition.
3. You can use a brush to blend the colors together or simply layer them for a more defined look.

Unique insights: Ombre liner can also be done with eyeshadows for a softer effect.

Tips: Ensure that the shades you choose complement each other to create a cohesive look.

Affiliate products: Makeup Forever Aqua XL Eye Pencil, Fenty Beauty Flyliner, Too Faced Sketch Marker Liquid Eyeliner.

Product Recommendations:
• Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
• Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil

12. The Glitter Liner

Glitter liner is the ultimate way to add sparkle and glam to your eye makeup!

Perfect for parties, festivals, or any occasion where you want to shine, glitter liner can elevate your look and make your eyes pop. This style often involves applying a layer of glittery eyeliner over your regular eyeliner for added dimension.

To achieve glitter liner:
1. Apply your regular eyeliner as a base.
2. Once the base is dry, gently apply a glitter liner over it for a dazzling effect.
3. You can also use glitter eyeshadow applied with a damp brush for a more intense sparkle.

Unique insights: Glitter liner can be a beautiful addition to a simple makeup look, drawing attention to your eyes without overwhelming the entire face.

Tips: Use a setting spray after applying glitter to help it stay in place throughout the night.

Affiliate products: Urban Decay Heavy Metal Glitter Eyeliner, NYX Glitter Goals Liquid Eyeliner, Stila Glitter & Glow Liquid Eye Shadow.

Product Recommendations:
• Urban Decay Heavy Metal Glitter Eyeliner
• NYX Glitter Goals Liquid Eyeliner
• Stila Glitter & Glow Liquid Eye Shadow

13. The Watercolor Liner

Watercolor liner is an artistic and whimsical approach to eyeliner that’s perfect for those who love to express their creativity.

This style involves using soft, blended colors to create a watercolor effect, giving your eyes a dreamy and ethereal quality.

To achieve watercolor liner:
1. Use a wet brush to apply eyeshadow or a creamy liner in soft pastel colors.
2. Blend the colors together, creating a soft gradient effect.
3. You can add more depth by layering different shades for a more vibrant look.

Unique insights: Watercolor liner works beautifully with simple makeup on the rest of your face, allowing your eyes to become the focal point.

Tips: Using a setting spray can help the colors stay vibrant throughout the day.

Affiliate products: ColourPop Crème Gel Color, Urban Decay Moondust Eyeshadow, Tarte Chrome Paint Shadow Pot.

Product Recommendations:
• Anastasia Beverly Hills Dipbrow Gel
• Fenty Beauty Flyliner Longwear Liquid Eyeliner

14. The Neon Liner

Neon liner is a bold and daring choice that’s perfect for making a statement!

This trend allows you to play with vibrant, fluorescent colors that can transform your eyes into a work of art. Neon liner is perfect for parties, festivals, or whenever you want to stand out.

To achieve neon liner:
1. Choose a bright, neon eyeliner or use an eyeshadow applied wet for a more intense effect.
2. Apply it along the upper lash line or create fun designs on your eyelids.
3. The brighter, the better—let your creativity shine!

Unique insights: Neon liner pairs beautifully with a simple face of makeup to let the eyes take center stage.

Tips: Ensure your neon eyeliner is long-lasting by applying a primer beforehand.

Affiliate products: NYX Vivid Brights Eyeliner, Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in neon shades, Fenty Beauty Flypencil in vibrant colors.

Product Recommendations:
• Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in neon shades
• Fenty Beauty Flypencil in vibrant colors

15. The Minimalist Liner

Minimalist liner is all about embracing simplicity and elegance.

This style focuses on creating a barely-there look that enhances your natural beauty without overpowering it. It’s perfect for those who prefer a fresh and clean aesthetic.

To achieve minimalist liner:
1. Use a soft pencil liner in a shade close to your skin tone or a light brown.
2. Apply it gently along the upper lash line, creating a subtle definition.
3. A touch of mascara is all you need to complete this effortless look.

Unique insights: Minimalist liner is ideal for everyday wear and can easily transition from day to night with a quick touch-up.

Tips: For an even more natural look, you can skip the eyeliner altogether and just focus on mascara.

Affiliate products: Clinique Quickliner for Eyes, Tarte Tarteist Double Take Eyeliner, L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Last Waterproof Pencil Eyeliner.

Product Recommendations:
• Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
• NYX Professional Makeup Retractable Eye Liner
• Maybelline New York Master Precise All Day Liquid Eyeliner.

Conclusion

Eyeliner is a powerful tool in the world of makeup, offering countless styles to express your individuality and creativity.

From classic lines to bold graphic designs, the right eyeliner can transform your look and inspire confidence.

So, whether you prefer timeless elegance or daring experimentation, there’s an eyeliner style for everyone! Explore these styles, find what resonates with you, and let your eyes do the talking.



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