The cat eye is more than just a makeup trend—it’s a timeless beauty statement that exudes sophistication, allure, and a hint of mystery. Its story began in ancient Egypt, where bold, winged eyeliner was a symbol of beauty, power, and protection. Fast forward to today, and the cat eye remains as iconic as ever, gracing runways, red carpets, and everyday makeup routines alike. This look has an adaptability that keeps it fresh through generations. With just a few tweaks to the angle, thickness, or length, the cat eye can go from a soft, subtle lift that enhances your natural features to a bold, dramatic wing that commands attention.
The magic of the cat eye is that it’s universally flattering, working wonders for every eye shape and style. Its versatility means there’s a version for everyone: from the classic flick to edgier, modern variations, you can customize the cat eye to fit your unique personality and features. And it’s not just about aesthetics; there’s something empowering about a well-executed wing. Perfecting that precise flick gives an instant confidence boost, transforming a simple makeup look into a statement of elegance and boldness.
Whether you’re a makeup beginner eager to master this classic technique or an experienced beauty lover looking to shake up your routine, the cat eye offers endless possibilities. In this guide, we’ll explore four ways to create a cat eye, each with its own personality and level of intensity. So grab your favorite eyeliner, let’s dive into the world of wings and flicks, and find the perfect cat eye look that brings out your inner beauty icon!
The classic cat eye is a go-to look for anyone who wants a simple yet eye-catching finish that works for any occasion. This technique is all about clean lines and a defined wing that elegantly extends the natural shape of the eyes, giving them a lifted, striking appearance. It’s ideal for beginners because it’s easy to master with a bit of practice, and it’s adaptable enough to work with all eye shapes and styles. Whether you’re heading to work, a brunch date, or a night out, the classic cat eye can be your versatile, everyday look that adds just the right amount of drama and sophistication.
To achieve the perfect classic cat eye, start by gathering these essentials:
Before jumping straight into the liner, it helps to create a guide to shape your wing. Lightly place a small dot where you want the wing to end, typically angled slightly upwards from the outer corner of your eye. Then, connect this dot to your lash line with a smooth line that follows the natural curve of your eye, extending upward to form the base of your wing. This step helps you visualize the final shape and ensures your flick is even on both sides.
Starting from the inner corner of your eye, carefully trace along the lash line. Gradually thicken the line as you approach the wing, merging it seamlessly with the guide you created. For a bolder look, you can make the line a bit thicker, but for a classic everyday style, keep it sleek and sharp. If you need to clean up any uneven edges, use a cotton swab dipped in micellar water or makeup remover to tidy things up without disturbing the rest of your makeup.
Pro Tip: If you have hooded eyes, slightly angle the wing upward and keep the line close to your lash line. This trick will make the cat eye more visible and flattering for your eye shape.
If you’re looking to make a statement, the dramatic cat eye is your go-to. It takes the classic winged liner up a notch by adding thickness, length, and intensity, creating a high-impact look that instantly draws attention. Perfect for nights out, special events, or anytime you want to feel a little extra, the dramatic cat eye is all about glamor and boldness. This style suits people with larger eye shapes particularly well, as the extended wing and layers can beautifully accentuate the eyes and make them appear even larger.
To get started, make sure you have the following tools:
Begin by applying a thick line along your upper lash line. Extend the wing out farther than you would for a classic cat eye to create that eye-catching, intense look. Aim to keep the line even and precise – this will serve as the foundation for the drama to come.
To add more dimension and intensity, layer a dark eyeshadow over the liner, focusing on the outer corner of your eye and blending slightly upward. This not only deepens the look but also softens the edges of your liner, creating a seamless transition between the liner and shadow. The blending adds a smoky effect that’s perfect for a dramatic vibe.
Complete your look by adding a pair of bold false lashes. The lashes enhance the wing and make your eyes appear bigger, bolder, and more glamorous. If you’re new to false lashes, look for ones with a flexible band for easier application and comfort.
Pro Tip: When creating a dramatic cat eye, a high-quality, waterproof liner is a must. It’ll keep your lines crisp and prevent smudging, even during long events. To perfect the wing, use a small angled brush with a bit of concealer to clean up any uneven edges. This trick will make your dramatic cat eye look flawless and professional.
If you love the idea of a cat eye but want something a bit softer and more mysterious, the smoky cat eye is a fantastic choice. This style gives you a smoldering, diffused effect that’s perfect for evening events or anytime you want to create a bit of extra depth around your eyes. The smoky cat eye combines liner and eyeshadow to create a multidimensional look that’s soft around the edges, making it ideal for those who prefer a more subtle yet captivating makeup style. It’s especially flattering for individuals with larger eyelids, as the blend of shadow and liner adds definition without the sharpness of a classic wing.
Here’s how to achieve this sultry look in a few easy steps:
To keep your smoky cat eye looking fresh and prevent any smudging, start by applying an eye primer. This will create a smooth base for your liner and shadow, helping everything stay put and blend beautifully. If you don’t have an eye primer, a thin layer of concealer or a bit of foundation on your eyelids can work as a substitute.
Choose a creamy pencil liner in a dark shade—black, charcoal, or even a rich brown for a softer look. Draw a line along your upper lash line, focusing on keeping it close to your lashes. Then, take a small smudge brush or your fingertip to gently blend the liner upwards. You don’t need to be perfect here; the goal is a diffused, blended effect rather than a precise line.
Now, take a dark eyeshadow, like a deep brown, charcoal, or even a plum, and apply it over the pencil liner. Use a fluffy blending brush to soften the edges, creating a seamless transition between the liner and shadow. Blend upward and outward to elongate your eyes, building intensity at the lash line while keeping the edges soft. This layered effect will add dimension to your look, giving you that signature smoky cat eye vibe.
Pro Tip from Pat McGrath: For an extra touch of drama with your smoky cat eye, Pat McGrath recommends using a touch of shimmer or metallic shadow right at the center of the eyelid. This trick catches the light and adds a mesmerizing dimension to your look, making your eyes appear bigger and more captivating
Also Read: How to Do a Smokey Eye for Beginners? A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re looking to push boundaries with your eyeliner, the graphic cat eye is your go-to style. This eye-catching look goes beyond the classic flick, incorporating bold, angular lines and unique shapes that add an artistic flair to your makeup. It’s a high-impact choice that lets you express your creativity and individuality. The graphic cat eye is perfect for those who enjoy experimenting with their makeup and want to make a strong statement. This look is especially flattering for people with larger eyelids, as the extra space gives those dramatic lines room to shine.
For the graphic cat eye, precision is everything. Opt for a high-quality liquid or gel liner, as these types of liners offer the sharp, clean lines you’ll need to pull off intricate shapes.
With the graphic cat eye, you’re not limited to the lash line. Extend your creativity by exploring shapes beyond the classic wing. Try adding a double wing, geometric angles, or even disconnected lines for a modern twist. This style is all about experimenting, so don’t be afraid to play with different shapes and techniques.
To make the graphic lines pop, clean up any uneven edges with a bit of concealer around your designs. A sharp edge will enhance the contrast and make your look appear polished and professional. This final touch will bring out the boldness of the design and help it stand out.
Erin Parsons: “I always tell beginners: If you’re new to graphic eyeliner, start small. Try adding a second wing to your classic cat eye to get comfortable with the technique. Once you feel more confident, you can gradually move on to more intricate designs like geometric shapes or exaggerated angles. And remember, symmetry is key with graphic designs—use a small brush or angle your liner carefully to keep both eyes balanced!”
The cat eye is a timeless, versatile look that can be tailored to suit any mood, occasion, or personality. Whether you’re drawn to the subtle elegance of the classic cat eye, the smoky softness of a blended look, the bold artistry of a graphic liner, or the high-impact drama of a thick, extended wing, there’s a cat eye style for everyone. Each of these techniques offers a new way to enhance your eyes and express your unique style.
Ready to level up your eyeliner skills? Grab your favorite liner, set up your mirror, and start experimenting with these techniques! Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, mastering your perfect cat eye can transform your entire makeup routine. Don’t forget to check out our other tutorials and product recommendations for more inspiration on your beauty journey. Find your signature cat eye look, and let your eyes steal the show!
And don’t forget to share your looks on social media—tag us to show off your signature cat eye!
Achieving symmetry can be tricky! Start by marking small dots or guide points where you want each wing to end. Begin drawing from the outer corner toward the lash line, comparing both eyes as you go. You can also use tape or an eyeliner stencil to help guide the angle for each eye.
To prevent smudging, always start with an eye primer and use a waterproof eyeliner. Setting your liner with a matching eyeshadow can add extra staying power. Blot any excess oil from your eyelids before applying makeup, and avoid touching your eyes throughout the day.
For a softer daytime look, use a pencil or eyeshadow instead of liquid liner. Apply a thin line along your upper lash line and lightly smudge the edges for a soft, diffused effect. Keeping the flick small and close to the lash line will also create a more subtle, wearable look.
Yes! To make your eyes look bigger, keep the line thin at the inner corner and gradually thicken it as you move outward. Adding a light, shimmery eyeshadow to the inner corner and a white or nude pencil on your lower waterline can also help open up the eyes.
If you struggle with a shaky hand, try resting your elbow on a flat surface and use short, small strokes to draw your line instead of one continuous line. You can also look down into a mirror to get a better angle for application. Alternatively, use a gel liner with a small angled brush for more control.
For more inspiration, check out reliable resources like sephora.com and allure.com for expert advice.
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