Purchasing Your Liner
Eyeliner is a staple for any makeup bag as it is an efficient and discreet way of freshening up your look. It comes in three main types – pencil, liquid, and gel – to accommodate all styles and levels of experience. Pencil eyeliner is the easiest to use as it provides a high degree of control and can easily be removed. However, because of the latter trait, it is essential you purchase one that is waterproof in order to protect against smudging. Liquid liner, on the other hand, comes in pen form with a saturated brush at the end, or in a bottle similar to mascara. It gives a precise, highly defined, and bold line, but can be difficult to maneuver and remove, making it less suitable for beginners. The compromise between pencil and liquid is gel liner, which has a slanted, stiff brush to be dipped in liquid with a high viscosity (similar to the consistency of gel). It is only slightly harder to use than pencil, but gives a bold colour like liquid liner.
There’s a Time and Place for Every Type
Although a pencil liner may seem plain, it is perfect for travel or touch ups during the day as it is easy to store and highly unlikely to make a mess. As well, it lasts long and, because of its malleability, can be used to achieve a wide variety of looks that involve a slightly smudged style. Plus, if you prefer to wet-line, or colour the edge of your eyelid, right beneath the lash line (a simple, hassle-free way to fake thick lashes if there is no mascara), pencil is the only viable option. However, if bold eyes are the focus or you want to exercise, run errands, or rush from meeting to meeting without fear of raccoon eyes, liquid or gel is the way to go. Although they should not be used to wet-line, they are great for creating defined wings or adding details.
Application and Colours
Black is universal, and perfect for every day wear when the top lid is thinly lined and paired with mascara, but other essential colours include a white or silver liner, and a deep blue or purple shade. Before applying, roll the tube or pen between your hands to warm it up and ensure a smoother application. For a quick look that makes your eyes subtly pop, dot the inner corner of your eye with a white pencil, and extend to approximately one third of the way across the top and bottom lids. Next, take a black liner and complete lining the top eyelid. Be careful not to use too much black liner, as it can make eyes seem small. Instead of lining completely around the eyes for a smokier look, do a classic wing on top, and extend only halfway across the bottom lid. A dark blue or purple are for formal occasions when you want to stand apart from the crowd, while maintaining a coolly professional demeanor.
