Adding a liner flick to my eye looks is something I’ve only started playing around with in the last few weeks. Believe me, I’ve long drooled over the artistry and expertise of some of the amazingly talented gals in the EOTD thread, but to be honest I’ve never been all that fussed about the winged look for myself. I just couldn’t seem to get the hang of it at all and most times my flicks ended dominating the whole show. They were too thick, uneven and poorly positioned, which then led me to believe they didn’t suit my eye shape.
But after some recent and fun experimentation, I’ve come to the conclusion that with persistence and practice (and a foolproof eye liner!), anything is possible. In fact I’m amazed at how a few carefully placed (and sometimes barely there) flicks can create an illusion of extra width, and bring a balance to my eye shape that I wasn’t even aware was needed. Below are some photos to demonstrate what I mean 🙂
Here’s how I often do my eyes, restricting the liner to the natural eye boundaries:
It looks ok, but see what happens when I add a couple of feathery flicks to the outer corner:
To me the look is now finished-off, softer and more feminine, and in comparison, my eye in the first pic looks kinda stumpy.
For this one I added just the teeniest little outside curl:
And here’s another example, a bit more dramatic this time. This was my initial look:
Next, I took the liner just slightly beyond the outer corner. Already the width appears extended and the eye a tad more almond-shaped.
And finally, I added ‘The Flick’:
I didn’t want anything too OTT for the office, so I softened the black with the same green shadow – but even after toning it down, I reckon the extension makes my eyes appear a wee bit fresher, and there’s an overall uplifting effect.
My earlier unsuccessful attempts were with a medium felt pen and a not-so-well sharpened crayon, whereas all the above flicks were created using Maybelline Master Precise Liquid Liner. As a novice winger, I found the MNY liquid liner far easier to control. The resulting lines were finer and more accurate, plus they didn’t flake, smudge or smear throughout the day.
So, with a bit of practice, the right tool, and especially after comparing the before and after photos, I do declare I’m a convert!
bh also recommends:
Innoxa Liquid Eyeliner Pen
L’Oréal Paris SuperLiner Liquid Eyeliner
Mirenesse Anniversary Secret Weapon 24 Hr Liquid Eyeliner Black Diamond
glo minerals Liquid Eye Liner
Bodyography Gel Eye Liner Duo