Master how to do winged eyeliner with these 7 techniques. From beginner tips to perfecting sharp wings – achieve a flawless, dramatic look that lasts all day!
How to Do Winged Eyeliner: 7 Techniques to Nail This Classic Look Every Time
Winged eyeliner is the ultimate makeup power move – sharp, sophisticated and instantly elevating. From Audrey Hepburn’s iconic cat-eye to modern TikTok trends, it’s a timeless skill that transforms your eyes and boosts confidence. Yet “how to do winged eyeliner” remains one of the most searched beauty queries, because those perfect wings can feel frustratingly elusive.
This comprehensive guide (over 1,000 words!) shares everything you need to conquer winged liner. Whether you’re a total beginner or struggling with shaky hands, these 7 techniques, tools and tricks will help you create stunning wings every time.
Let’s flick it!
Why Winged Eyeliner is Worth Mastering
Invest in quality for better application:
- Liquid liner (pen style for control: NYX Epic Ink, Kat Von D Tattoo Liner)
- Gel liner + angled brush (creamy: Maybelline Gel, Bobbi Brown)
- Pencil for beginners (smudgeable: Urban Decay 24/7)
- Makeup remover/cotton buds for fixes
- Magnifying mirror + steady surface
Optional: Tape/stencil for perfect symmetry.
Technique 1: Prep Your Eyes & Skin
Start fresh:
- Clean, moisturised lids
- Primer or concealer for smooth base
- Light eyeshadow (neutral) if desired
Oil-free base prevents smudging.
Technique 2: Map Your Wing Shape
Determine angle:
- Look straight – Draw imaginary line from lower lash line outer corner to brow end.
- Mark dot where wing ends.
- Adjust for eye shape: Up for hooded, straight for almond.
This “skeleton” prevents wonky wings.
Technique 3: Create the Wing First (Game-Changer)
Beginners mistake: Lining lid first.
Pro method:
- From outer corner dot, draw line back to upper lash line (45° angle).
- Make thin or thick as desired.
- Fill triangle created.
Better symmetry when wings done first.
Technique 4: Line the Upper Lash Line & Connect
- Thin line along lashes, thickening towards outer corner.
- Connect smoothly to wing.
- Stay close to lashes – No gaps.
Steady elbow on table.
Technique 5: Refine Inner Corner and Details
- Thin line or skip for open-eye effect.
- Tightline (waterline) for intensity.
- Sharpen wing edges.
Technique 6: Balance Both Eyes & Fix Mistakes
Compare in mirror:
- Step back for perspective.
- Adjust symmetry.
- Cotton bud + remover for cleanup.
- Use concealer brush for crisp lines.
Technique 7: Set and Explore Variations
- Light powder/setting spray.
- Adapt for eye shape (hooded thicker, monolid gradual).
- Try classic, double or coloured wings.
Common Mistakes & Fixes
- Shaky hands – Rest elbow, breathe slow.
- Uneven wings – Use tape/stencil.
- Smudging – Waterproof formula.
- Too thick – Start thin, build.
Best Products by Budget
Drugstore:
- L’Oréal Paris Infallible
- Rimmel Scandaleyes
Mid-range:
- Stila Stay All Day
- Benefit Roller Liner
Luxury:
- Tom Ford Eye Defining Pen
- YSL Couture Eyeliner
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Pencil or liquid for beginners?
A: Pencil – Forgiving, smudgeable.
Q: Hooded eyes tips?
A: Thin line, wing above crease.
Q: Shaky hands?
A: Tape guide, dot method.
Q: Waterproof necessary?
A: Yes for oily lids/long wear.
Q: Remove without ruining?
A: Oil-based remover, gentle pats.
Final Thoughts
Mastering winged eyeliner is empowering – these techniques turn a tricky skill into an achievable everyday art. Start simple, practice on no-makeup days and watch your confidence soar with each sharper wing.
As you practice, you’ll notice not only sharper lines but growing confidence in your abilities. Mistakes are inevitable at first – a smudge here, an uneven wing there – but they’re also the fastest way to improve. Keep a remover handy, learn your eye shape’s quirks, and soon you’ll create flawless wings in minutes.
The perfect flick is in your hands – embrace the process, fix mistakes fearlessly and enjoy the dramatic, beautiful results.
Your eyes deserve those stunning wings – go create them! 👁️✨