Ever wonder how many different eyeliner looks you can actually nail? Spoiler: all of them. Eyeliner has that magic power to instantly transform your glam, whether you’re aiming for sharp and dramatic or soft and effortless. Luckily, there are endless ways to wear eyeliner, and with the right tips, mastering them is easier than you think.
As BEAUTY BAY’s in-house MUA, I’m here to guide you three must-try styles using our new Locked-In Longwear Eyeliner. From the timeless classic winged eyeliner to a sultry smoky eye and a soft brown eyeliner look, you’ll learn step-by-step how to recreate each one, and discover which one style flatters your eye shape the most. Ready to level up your liner game?
How to apply eyeliner flawlessly
Flawless eyeliner comes down to a few smart techniques (and a little practice). Here’s how to nail it every time:
– Prep your lids – Keep them clean and oil-free, then add primer or a dusting of powder for grip.
– Line before your base – Apply eyeliner before foundation and concealer so you can easily tidy up mistakes.
– Steady your hand – Rest your elbow or pinky on your face for better control.
– Work in short strokes – Build your line gradually instead of dragging one long swipe.
– Even things out – Sketch your lines lightly with a pencil or dots first if you struggle with getting them symmetrical.
What eyeliner is best?
The best eyeliner is one that’s creamy enough to glide on smoothly, yet budge-proof enough to last all day, and that’s exactly what you get with our Locked-In Longwear Eyeliner. This twist-up pencil delivers bold, high-impact colour in a single swipe, while the built-in smudger makes it easy to create a smoky finish. With a hidden sharpener to keep the tip precise and a formula that won’t fade or smudge, it’s your all-in-one essential for sleek wings, soft definition, or sultry, smoky looks.
4 ways to wear eyeliner
Smoky liner
Best for: Almond, round, or hooded eyes
If you’re after a look that’s smoldering and dramatic, the smoky eyeliner is your go-to. This style enhances your eyes with depth and definition, perfect for evening events or whenever you want a touch of sultriness.
How to do smoky liner
Step 1: Sharpen your pencil for a precise line.
Step 2: Start at the outer corner and follow the direction of your lower lash line to create a guideline for your wing. Repeat on the other eye and check that both wings are symmetrical.
Step 3: Create a triangle shape from the tip of the wing to your top lash line, then use the built-in smudger to smoke it out.
Step 4: Draw a line from the inner corner of the eye, following the lash line, and connect it to the wing. Smudge again to soften the look.
Step 5: Build and smudge gradually until you reach your desired depth of colour.
Winged Liner
Best for: Almond, hooded, or upturned eyes
A winged liner look is timeless and versatile, perfect for everyday wear or a polished, defined look. With a clean, precise wing, it enhances your eye shape while keeping your makeup elegant and effortless.
For those with hooded eyes who want a wing, a traditional cat-eye can sometimes disappear when your eyes are open. Instead, try a bat wing, where the flick angles slightly downward. This prevents the wing from crinkling or becoming unbalanced when your eye is relaxed.
How to do winged liner
Step 1: Start with a sharpened pencil to ensure smooth, accurate application.
Step 2: Begin at the outer corner and trace along the direction of your lower lash line to map out the wing. Repeat on the other eye, checking that they’re even.
Step 3: Form a small triangle from the wing’s tip to the top lash line. For an extra crisp edge, lightly clean up the shape with a cotton bud and micellar water.
Step 4: Draw a line from the inner corner along the lash line, connecting it seamlessly to the wing.
Waterline Eyeliner
Best for: Round, hooded, or deep-set eyes
The waterline look creates subtle definition that makes your lashes appear fuller and your eyes more striking. It’s perfect for a polished, natural effect or as a base for more dramatic eye makeup.
How to do waterline eyeliner
Step 1: Gently pull down your lower eyelid so the waterline is fully visible. Use a cotton bud to remove any excess moisture, as this helps the liner stay put longer.
Step 2: Glide your pencil along the lower waterline, aiming for an even, smooth application.
Step 3: For extra definition, repeat on the top waterline – a technique called tightlining.
Step 4: Let the liner set for a few minutes, then go over it again to build intensity and longevity.
Duo Tone Eyeliner
Best for: Almond, round, or hooded eyes
The duo tone liner look adds depth and dimension by combining two shades, creating a modern, eye-catching effect. It’s perfect for when you want your eyes to pop while keeping the look wearable.
How to do duo tone eyeliner
Step 1: Begin at the inner corner of your upper lash line with a black pencil, following the natural curve of your lashes all the way to the outer corner.
Step 2: Use a smudging tool to ensure the black liner is evenly blended for a polished finish.
Step 3: On the lower lash line, start at the outer corner with a brown pencil and work toward the center of the eye.
Step 4: Blend the brown liner toward the inner corner using the smudger or your fingertip to create a soft gradient effect.
