Tips for Creating the Perfect Winged Eyeliner

Winged eyeliner is a makeup look that has stood the test of time, consistently gracing red carpets, everyday looks, and even avant-garde styles with its versatility and elegance.

But, let’s be honest—nailing the perfect wing can be tricky! Whether you’re a beginner struggling with symmetry or a makeup pro looking to enhance your skills, this guide will take you through everything you need to know about winged eyeliner—from understanding the basics to exploring advanced techniques and troubleshooting common challenges.

By the end, you’ll be a winged eyeliner expert, ready to flick, line, and slay.

What Is Winged Eyeliner?

At its core, winged eyeliner involves creating a line along the upper lash line that extends beyond the outer corner of the eye, forming a flick or “wing.”

The intensity of this look can vary—from a subtle, upward flick to a bold and dramatic line that defines the entire eye.

Winged eyeliner is often associated with a retro-glam look, inspired by icons like Audrey Hepburn and Sophia Loren, but it has evolved into a makeup staple in contemporary beauty as well.

Why Is Winged Eyeliner So Popular?

This makeup technique is beloved for its ability to elongate and define the eyes, giving them a lifted, more youthful appearance.

It’s versatile too: it can be minimal or dramatic, depending on how you draw the flick and the products you use.

Plus, winged eyeliner suits a range of eye shapes—from almond to round—making it accessible to all.

Tools and Products You’ll Need

Before we get into the technique itself, you need to ensure you’re equipped with the right tools.

Picking the appropriate eyeliner is essential to creating the perfect wing, and there are different formulas that work best for specific styles and skill levels.

Types of Eyeliners

1. Liquid Eyeliner: This is ideal for creating sharp, defined lines. Look for a fine-tipped applicator that allows for precision. The most common options are:
   • Felt-tip: Easier to control for beginners, offering consistency with minimal mess.
   • Brush-tip: Offers more flexibility but requires a steadier hand for clean lines.
2. Gel Eyeliner: Applied with a small angled brush, gel eyeliner is great for those who want control. It offers a bold finish but is more forgiving than liquid eyeliner in terms of precision.
3. Pencil Eyeliner: Perfect for beginners, pencils are less intense than liquid liners. They create a softer line, which is easier to clean up, making them ideal for smoky wings or a more natural look.
4. Powder Eyeliner: This product is used with an angled brush to create a more diffused, natural wing. It’s a great option if you want to experiment with subtle, everyday wings.

Important Features to Look For in Eyeliners

• Waterproof Formula: If longevity is important to you, opt for waterproof formulas to prevent your wing from fading or smudging throughout the day.
• Longevity: Check for long-lasting products, especially if you have oily eyelids or are planning a long day or night out.
• Color Variety: Black is classic, but you can experiment with colors like brown for a softer look or even bright shades like blue or purple for a pop of fun.

Also Read: The Ultimate Guide to Lip Care: How to Keep Your Lips Soft and Hydrated

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating the Perfect Winged Eyeliner

Now that you’ve got your tools, it’s time to put them to use! Follow these steps to create your perfect wing.

Prep Your Lids

Before you even touch your eyeliner, prep your eyelids. This will help your eyeliner glide on smoothly and stay put throughout the day.

Start by applying an eye primer or a neutral-toned eyeshadow base. If your lids tend to get oily, setting your primer with a translucent powder will help reduce smudging.

Start Small: Draw a Thin Line

Begin by drawing a thin line along your upper lash line. It’s always easier to start with a small line and build up, rather than drawing a thick line from the get-go.

This way, you have more control and can avoid making the line too heavy or uneven.

Pro Tip: Place the liner’s tip at the center of your lid, and work your way outward. This helps to balance the thickness of the line.

Map Out Your Wing

When mapping out the wing, aim for the angle that aligns with the natural shape of your lower lash line, extending it toward the end of your eyebrow.

You can use a guide like a piece of tape or an eyeliner stencil for a more precise angle.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about the length or shape, try using a light eyeshadow to map out the wing first, then trace over it with your liner once you’re happy with the shape.

Create the Flick

Here comes the most challenging part—creating the flick. Draw a small triangle at the outer corner of your eye, connecting it back to the lash line.

The thickness of your wing should taper as it extends toward the outer edge.

Pro Tip: Use a light hand when drawing the flick to avoid creating a harsh, thick line right away. You can always build up the intensity if needed.

Connect and Fill

Once the flick is in place, connect the tip back to the liner along your lash line, forming a smooth, continuous wing.

Fill in the shape as needed, keeping the line as even as possible.

Pro Tip: If you’re working with liquid eyeliner and feel the need to fix any uneven spots, wait for the product to dry before cleaning it up. Use a small angled brush and concealer to sharpen the edges of the wing.

Practice Makes Perfect

Remember, practice is key when it comes to mastering winged eyeliner. Don’t be discouraged if your first few attempts aren’t perfect.

The more you practice, the more you’ll discover what techniques and styles work best for your eye shape.

Advanced Winged Eyeliner Techniques

Once you’ve mastered the basics, you can start experimenting with different winged eyeliner styles to change up your look.

Double Winged Eyeliner

For a bold, editorial look, the double wing is a great option. This involves creating a second, smaller flick just below the first wing.

This style adds a dramatic flair and pairs well with a glamorous, smoky eye.

Floating Liner

This trend involves creating a winged eyeliner above the crease of the eye, rather than along the lash line.

It’s a modern, high-fashion look that stands out in editorial shoots and avant-garde makeup styles.

Colored Winged Eyeliner

Don’t limit yourself to black! Using colored eyeliner is a fantastic way to add fun to your wing.

Shades like electric blue, emerald green, or bold purple can make your eyes pop and bring a new twist to the classic winged look.

Troubleshooting Common Winged Eyeliner Issues

Even experienced makeup lovers encounter issues with winged eyeliner. Here’s how to fix some common problems:

Uneven Wings

Symmetry is key when it comes to winged eyeliner. If your wings end up uneven, don’t worry—it happens!

You can fix this by tweaking the shape with a concealer brush or by adding a bit more liner to the shorter side to even them out.

Smudging

Smudging can be a common issue, especially if you have oily eyelids. To prevent this, always use an eyelid primer before applying your eyeliner.

Opt for a waterproof formula to help keep your look intact throughout the day.

Eyeliner Transfers to Upper Lid

If your eyeliner keeps transferring to your upper lid, it’s probably due to excess oil.

Use a setting powder or eyeshadow primer on your lids to create a matte surface that reduces transfer.

Additionally, waiting for the eyeliner to dry fully before blinking can help!

Also Read: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Perfect Foundation for your Skin Type

How to Choose the Right Eyeliner for Your Eye Shape

The shape of your eyes plays a significant role in how you should approach your winged eyeliner. Here’s a quick guide for different eye shapes:

• Hooded Eyes: Keep the line thin on the inner corner and build thickness as you reach the outer corner. Extend the flick outward to lift the eyes.
• Almond Eyes: Almond eyes can pull off any type of wing! Experiment with different thicknesses and lengths to find what suits your style.
• Round Eyes: A winged eyeliner that extends outward can give the illusion of a more almond shape, making your eyes appear elongated.
• Downturned Eyes: Aim for a sharp, upward flick to create the appearance of lifted eyes.

Conclusion

Creating the perfect winged eyeliner can seem daunting, but with a little practice and these helpful tips, you can achieve the perfect winged look in no time.

Remember to start with a thin line and use a liquid eyeliner with a fine tip, and always connect the wing back to the base of your eyelashes.

Applying a primer and cleaning up mistakes with concealer can also help ensure that your winged eyeliner lasts all day without smudging or smearing.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for you, and with patience and persistence, you can master the art of winged eyeliner.

FAQs:

Hare are some frequently asked questions:

Q: What is the best type of eyeliner to use for creating winged eyeliner?

A: A liquid eyeliner with a fine tip is the best type of eyeliner to use for creating winged eyeliner.

Q: How do I prevent my winged eyeliner from smudging or smearing?

A: Applying a primer to your eyelids can help your eyeliner last longer and prevent it from smudging or smearing.

Q: Should I start with a thick or thin line when creating winged eyeliner?

A: It’s best to start with a thin line when creating winged eyeliner. This will serve as the base for your winged eyeliner.

Q: How do I connect the wing to the rest of my eyeliner?

A: To connect the wing to the rest of your eyeliner, draw a line from the tip of the wing back to the base of your eyelashes.

Q: What do I do if I make a mistake while creating winged eyeliner?

A: Use a small angled brush and some concealer to clean up any mistakes or uneven lines.

Q: How long does it take to master creating perfect winged eyeliner?

A: Creating the perfect winged eyeliner takes practice, and it may take some time to master. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempts aren’t perfect, and keep practicing until you find what works best for you.