I'm a Celebrity Makeup Artist—Here are 5 Reliable Tips for Achieving a Perfect Winged Liner Look.

      Ash K Holm serves as an editor in residence at Who What Wear, a celebrity makeup artist and educator, and co-founder of the luxury med spa Dripology. When asked about my signature look, my response is simple: I adore winged eyeliner. It’s my preferred choice for both my personal makeup and when working with clients such as Kim Kardashian, Lindsay Lohan, Kris Jenner, and Alix Earle. I appreciate winged eyeliner for its adaptability to different eye shapes and individual styles. From subtle flicks to smudged wings and bold lines, the variations are limitless! Whether you’re an expert or trying liquid eyeliner for the first time, here are my five fail-safe tips to achieve a flawless winged eyeliner look.

      Here are some winged eyeliner styles I've crafted for my celebrity clients, ranging from soft and subtle to bold and smoky. The versatility of winged liner is something I truly enjoy!

      1. **Prep the Eye Area**

      Before I reach for any eyeliner, I always begin with eye preparation. It’s just as crucial as skin preparation! (Check out my expert guide on everything related to eyecare.) I start by cleansing the eye area with a specific eye wash or wipe to establish a blank canvas. Once the area is clean and ready for makeup, you can apply your desired eyeshadow. Then, it’s on to the eyeliner.

      2. **Create a Customized Guide**

      I suggest creating a guide to follow when applying winged eyeliner. First, let the outer corner of your brow determine the angle of your eyeliner. Picture the eyeliner extending to meet the brow's end, with the length being up to you. If you’re new to winged liner, try applying a matte black or brown eyeshadow as an outline. This gives you more control and sets a template for where to apply your liquid or gel liner. Once you have your guide, use a liquid or gel liner. Keep the pen or brush flat and angled, gently dragging it along the outer corner of your lash line. Keeping the brush close to the lash line will help elongate your line.

      3. **Take Your Time (Never Rush Your Winged Liner!)**

      Achieving a flawless winged liner takes patience, so take your time. Tilt your head back and line along the lash line using short, feather-like strokes until they connect. Essentially, you’re pressing on the liner and smoothly gliding it across. Trust me—patience is key to precision! **Bonus Tip:** If you have hooded eyes, look directly into your mirror and avoid closing your eyes while applying eyeliner. This helps shape the wing correctly and ensures the eyeliner is visible with your eyes open.

      4. **Sharpen Up the Shape**

      Once your wing is done, you can tidy up any smudges with a clean angled liner brush and a makeup wipe. Moisten the brush with the wipe and carefully clean up your line with it. Be sure to keep the brush clean on the wipe as you go to avoid additional smudging.

      5. **Perfect It With Concealer**

      Finally, add the finishing touch to your winged eyeliner by using an angled brush to apply concealer under the wing either by stamping or sweeping. This step will help you achieve a sharp, professional-looking wing!

      Watch Ash create her signature winged liner look: