Runway vs. Real Way: Winged Eyeliner

I have been practicing winged eyeliner for quite some time and with Halloween just one day away, it only makes sense to share my October makeup obsession. The cat eye is a pretty popular trend this season but it’s not easy to master. I know this because I failed. Many times. I think it has something to do with almost failing geometry in high school. Triangles were never my thing. But that’s the politics of pretty (sorry I couldn’t resist). Statement makeup looks like the classic cat eye doesn’t just appear (unless of course you’re a seasoned makeup artist.. or you were gifted with a steady hand.. if it’s the latter I seriously envy you).

Thanks to some quality time on Pinterest (yes, this totally called for a new board), a bevy of YouTube plays and sifting through a ton of pencils and liquid liners, I’m sharing with you a runway/my way version of the cat eye/winged linger/whatever you wanna call it.

Backstage beauty inspiration:

Cat Eye Inspiration

Whether you prefer liquid liner, gel or pencil, one thing is for sure: it’s all about the triangle. If you use a pencil (like I did), I recommend sharpening and re-sharpening as you apply for a crisp and clean shape. This is a no-smudge makeup look so even the tiniest mark can make your whole look uneven. Also, keep a pointed Q-tip nearby (dip it in your daily moisturizer and use it to clean up any excess liner or mistakes). I’m a visual learner so I highly recommend taking cat eye cues from pro-makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury. Below are some snapshots of my results! Let me know what you think.

My style:

How to apply winged liner

Kara Manos

Winged Liner - Kara Manos

Kara Manos - Politics of Pretty

Products I’m wearing: Rimmel London Soft Kohl Kajal Eye Liner Pencil, Stila In The Know Palette (I used ‘air’ and ‘clay’ shades), YSL Babydoll Mascara, Stila Lip Glaze in Pout (from the Elegant Emerald Lip Glaze Trio), and Stila Convertible Color Dual Lip and Cheek Cream in Peony (gifted); BCBGeneration Cropped Sweater

Photography by Divya Ooi