Eyeliner is incredibly chic, simple and makes everyone look completely fabulous. This look has been thriving and fashionable since the swinging 60s when bold, colourful graphic liner was the epitome of cool, and it’s been going strong ever since! Getting your line right is all about your desired effect, drawing skills and, most of all, the kind of liner you’re using. This category is majorly varied, so it can be pretty daunting when it comes to finding one to take home and try out – well, reader, that’s where this guide comes in! Read on for all the info you could possibly need when you’re on the hunt for the perfect tool to create some crisp, smudgy or sultry lines around those eyes…
Formulas
You can find liner in a whole world of different colours and finishes, but the most important factor is the formula. This determines the overall look and feel of not only the line that you draw but your whole makeup look as well – so proceed with caution! The main formulas that you’ll encounter when shopping for eyeliners are…
Pencil: This is the classic liner, it’s beautifully soft, smudgy and seriously sophisticated. A pencil liner is perfect when you want to put together a natural, classic look, add some subtle definition or create a sultry smoky eye! Depending on the kind of pencil liner you pick up, you can create some pretty striking looks. The creamier the formula, the easier it will be to move around the eye and create those deep, dark smudgy looks that we all love. A firmer pencil can create angular flicks when kept sharp or draw precise yet soft lines for demure definition.
Liquid: Liquid liners come with a pot or tube of thin liquid and a sponge, felt or brush tipped applicator with which to draw. This is a favourite for makeup artists as you can get super exact and precise with this product.
Felt Tip: A felt tip eyeliner is basically a liquid liner in the convenient form of a pen – you get the graphic control and comfort of a pencil with the effect of a classic liquid liner! This one is best for those who have a little bit of a shaky hand but still love the crisp eyeliner flick look. You can find these in some seriously cool colours and finishes, so they’re also great if you want to get creative with your liner curves.
Gel: Gel liner is probably the friendliest liner on this list, it’s thick formula is forgiving, long-lasting and easy to work with if you happen to make a mistake. As long as you have a synthetic hair angled liner brush, you’ll have a great time working with a rich pot of gel eyeliner. This can be multi-purposed as an eyeshadow base for particularly intense makeup looks. Gel liners tend to be super long-lasting, so opt for this formula if you have oily eyelids or hooded eyes.
Colours and Finishes
Once you’ve chosen the perfect formula for you, you can start thinking about colours and finishes! Now, of course, the classic liner colour is black – there’s really no way you can wrong with it. But, if you’re looking for something a little more subtle, don’t be afraid of opting for deep brown, aubergine, inky navy or forest green – these will make your eyes pop. If you’re a creative and you want to get expressive with your liner, choose eye-catching metallics, pastel pinks, mint greens and contemporary white, these all look completely incredible and will bring some major on-trend style points to every outfit!