How to Create a Classic Cat Eye Makeup Look

Classic cat eye makeup with a classy black wing is a timeless makeup staple. This iconic look has been around for decades and continues to be a favorite among makeup enthusiasts of all levels, from beginners to professionals. The cat eye makeup look is versatile and can be dressed up or down, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you're going for a dramatic evening look or a more natural daytime look, the cat eye is always a great choice. And with so many different ways to create the cat eye, you're sure to find a style that suits you. To help you master this timeless look, we've put together a step-by-step guide on how to create the perfect cat eye eyeliner. So grab your favorite eyeliner and let's get started!

What Is Cat Eye Eyeliner?

The classic cat eye eyeliner is a makeup technique that creates a dramatic and elongated wing at the outer corner of the eye, resembling the shape of a cat's eye. This iconic look has been popular for decades and can instantly elevate any makeup look, adding a touch of glamour and sophistication. It's a popular makeup trend that has been featured in countless fashion shows, magazines, and movies.

What Do You Need for
Cat Eye Eyeliner?

To achieve the perfect cat eye eyeliner, you will need a few essential tools and makeup products. These include:



  • A good quality black liquid eyeliner with a precise felt tip or brush applicator, which is crucial for creating a smooth and even line.
  • A neutral eyeshadow palette with matte and shimmery shades to help you define the crease and create a seamless transition between the eyeliner and the rest of your eyeshadow.
  • Finally, you'll need a volumizing and lengthening mascara to enhance your lashes and complete the eye makeup look.

How To Do a Classic Cat Eye Makeup Look: Step-by-Step

Now that you have gathered all the necessary tools and products, let's go through the step-by-step process to create a classic cat eye makeup look that will make your eyes feline-fine.

Step #1: Dust on Eyeshadow for Definition

Start by applying a shimmery, deep-toned eyeshadow shade to the crease of your eyelid. This will help contour your eyes and make them appear more lifted and defined. Use a fluffy eyeshadow brush to blend the color seamlessly.

Step #2: Find Your Angle and Create Your Outline

Next, determine the right angle for your cat eye. To do this, imagine a straight line extending from the outer corner of your eye towards the end of your eyebrow. This line will serve as your guide for the wing. Using your black liquid eyeliner, start creating an outline by drawing a thin line along the imagined line, extending it outwards to create the wing.

Step #3: Fill It All In

Once you have your outline, it's time to fill in the wing. Starting from the inner corner of the upper lash line, draw a line along the lash line, connecting it to the wing you just created. Make sure to apply the eyeliner as close to the lash line as possible to create a seamless look.

Step #4: Clean It Up for a Purr-fect Edge

To achieve a sharp and precise cat eye, you may need to clean up any uneven edges. Use a cotton swab dipped in micellar water or makeup remover to gently remove any smudges or uneven lines. Be careful not to smudge the rest of your makeup while doing so.

Step #5: Finish It Up with Mascara and a Nude Lip

To complete the classic cat eye makeup look, apply a few coats of volumizing mascara to your upper and lower lashes. This will help enhance your lashes and draw even more attention to your eyes. You can also add a touch of highlighter or white pencil eyeliner to the inner corners of your eyes to make them look brighter and more awake. For the lips, opt for a nude lipstick with a satin finish to keep the focus on the eyes while adding a touch of sophistication.
With a little practice, you'll be able to create a cat eye makeup look that's perfect for any occasion. So go ahead and experiment until you find a look that you love!

Classic Cat Eye Makeup FAQs

Yes, cat eye makeup can create an illusion of bigger eyes by elongating the shape of the eye and drawing attention to the outer corners. The wing or flick created by the eyeliner helps to lift the eyes and make them appear more prominent. Applying cat eyeliner on hooded eyes requires a slightly different technique. Start by prepping the eyelid with an eyeshadow primer to prevent smudging. Then, create a thin line along the lash line, staying close to the lashes. Instead of flicking the liner up at the outer corner, extend the line slightly outwards and then blend it upwards to create a soft wing. This technique helps to lift the eyes. Reverse cat eye makeup is a variation of the classic cat eye where the wing or flick is created on the lower lash line instead of the upper lash line. This technique is often used to create a more subtle and laid-back cat eye look. It involves drawing a line from the outer corner of the lower lash line, extending it outwards and flicking it upwards. Cat eye makeup can be flattering for women of all ages, including mature women. To adapt the cat eye look for mature eyes, it's recommended to use a softer touch with the eyeliner and blend it well to avoid harsh lines. Additionally, using waterproof or smudge-proof eyeliner can help prevent smudging and creasing.