The cat eye is a timeless makeup classic—equal parts elegant, bold, and a little bit fierce. But let’s be honest: getting those wings sharp and symmetrical can feel like a test of patience. The good news? With the right tools, technique, and a few pro tricks, the perfect cat eye is totally achievable—even for beginners.

Let’s break it down step by step.

What Is a Cat Eye?

A cat eye is an eyeliner look where the line extends past the outer corner of the eye and flicks upward, creating a winged shape. The length and thickness can range from subtle and everyday to dramatic and glamorous.

Step 1: Choose the Right Eyeliner

Not all eyeliners are created equal. Pick one that matches your skill level:

• Liquid liner – Best for crisp, sharp wings (great once you’ve had some practice)
• Gel liner – Smooth and forgiving; ideal for beginners
• Pencil liner – Soft and easy to control, perfect for a smudgier cat eye
• Felt-tip pen – A happy medium with control and precision

Tip: If your hands shake, opt for gel or felt-tip liners—they’re more forgiving.

Step 2: Prep Your Eyes

A smooth base makes all the difference.

1. Clean your eyelids to remove oil.
2. Apply a light eyeshadow primer or a dab of concealer.
3. Set with translucent powder to prevent smudging.

This helps your liner glide on smoothly and stay put all day.

Step 3: Find Your Wing Angle

Before drawing anything, decide where your wing will go.

• Imagine a line extending from the outer corner of your eye toward the end of your eyebrow.
• This angle flatters most eye shapes and keeps the wing lifted—not droopy.

Hack: Use a piece of tape or the edge of a business card as a guide if you want extra precision.

Step 4: Draw the Wing First

Instead of starting along the lash line, begin with the wing:

1. Draw a short line upward from the outer corner.
2. Decide how dramatic you want it—short and sweet or long and bold.
3. Connect the tip of the wing back toward your lash line, forming a small triangle.

Fill in the triangle.

Step 5: Line the Lash Line

Now connect everything:

• Start from the inner corner with a thin line.
• Gradually thicken the line as you move outward.
• Make sure it seamlessly connects with the wing.

Keep your eyes open while lining—this helps prevent uneven wings when your eyes are relaxed.

Step 6: Clean Up and Perfect

Mistakes happen. Here’s how to fix them like a pro:

• Dip a cotton swab in micellar water or makeup remover to sharpen edges.
• Use a small concealer brush to clean and define the wing.
• If one wing is thicker, match the other—don’t keep fixing the same eye!

Pro Tips for a Flawless Cat Eye

• Rest your elbow on a table for steadier hands
• Look straight into the mirror, not down
• Short wings are easier to keep symmetrical
• Practice before washing your face at night—low pressure, high reward

The perfect cat eye isn’t about perfection—it’s about confidence and practice. Every makeup lover has struggled with uneven wings at some point. Stick with it, experiment with styles, and soon you’ll be flicking your liner like a total pro.

Now grab your eyeliner and unleash your inner cat