15 Different Types of Eyeliner Looks: The Perfect Guide to Formula & Styles

When it comes to eyeliner looks, one thing is clear: the right liner can completely transform your entire makeup look. From sharp, dramatic wings inspired by Egyptian makeup to soft, everyday definition, eyeliner is one of the most powerful tools in your beauty arsenal.

But here’s the thing — not all eyeliners are created equal. Each eyeliner formula has its own personality. Some are super beginner-friendly and glide on effortlessly, while others take a bit of practice but reward you with ultra-precise, cool eyeliner looks. Certain formulas are perfect for bold, graphic designs, while others shine when you’re going for subtle, natural makeup looks.

With so many eyeliner options available today, it’s totally normal to feel overwhelmed. Pencil, liquid, gel, felt-tip… how do you know which one will help you achieve your dream eyeliner style?

Don’t worry, beauties, that’s exactly why we’re here.

From Classic to Bold: Exploring 15 Different Types of Eyeliner Styles

To truly master eyeliner ideas and find your perfect match, it’s important to understand what each formula offers, along with its strengths and limitations. Once you know how each type works, creating stunning eyeliner looks becomes so much easier (and way more fun).

In this guide, we’re diving deep into the eyeliner looks, breaking down their pros and cons so you can choose the best option for your skill level and style goals. And because inspiration is everything, you’ll also find plenty of cool eyeliner looks from classic wings and smoky liners to bold, artistic, trend-forward designs that instantly elevate your makeup game.

Whether you love timeless elegance, edgy statements, or dramatic Egyptian makeup vibes, this guide will help you explore, experiment, and fall in love with eyeliner all over again.

1) Basic / Simple Eyeliner

If you’re drawn to timeless, effortless eyeliner looks, the basic eyeliner style is a must. This classic technique subtly enhances your eyes by defining the upper lash line without overpowering your overall makeup look.

To achieve this style, apply eyeliner along the upper lash line, starting from the inner corner and extending outward. Keep the line thin and delicate near the inner corner, then slowly build thickness as you move toward the outer edge. This helps emphasize your eye shape while keeping the look clean and natural.

Pro Tip: For this eyeliner style, pencil, cream, or gel formulas work best. Pencil and cream liners are especially great if you want a soft, natural finish that’s perfect for everyday wear.

2) Kitten Flick

The kitten flick is the softer, more wearable cousin of the classic winged liner. It’s perfect if you love cool eyeliner looks but want something subtle, polished, and effortlessly chic. This style adds just a hint of lift to the eyes without going full drama—ideal for everyday makeup looks or beginners easing into wings.

To create a kitten flick, line the upper lash line as usual, then extend the liner slightly upward at the outer corner. Keep the flick short and delicate, following the natural angle of your lower lash line. The key is restraint—think tiny lift, not bold wing.

Pro Tip: A fine-tip liquid liner or a slim pencil works best here. Use light, short strokes and build slowly for a clean, precise finish.

3) Winged Eyeliner

The winged eyeliner is an all-time classic and one of the most iconic eyeliner looks ever. Bold, confident, and endlessly flattering, this style instantly adds drama and definition to the eyes. Whether you keep it sleek and sharp or long and dramatic, winged liner is a go-to for elevated makeup looks and statement beauty moments.

To achieve this look, start by lining the upper lash line from the inner corner outward. At the outer corner, extend the liner upward and outward to form a wing, then connect it back to the lash line, filling in the shape. The length and thickness of the wing are totally customizable—short for a polished vibe, longer for bold, cool eyeliner looks.

Pro Tip: Liquid or gel liners work best for winged eyeliner. If you’re struggling with symmetry, try drawing the wing first, then connecting it back to the lash line for better control.

4) Cat-Eye Eyeliner

The cat-eye eyeliner is sultry, dramatic, and designed to make your eyes look instantly lifted and elongated. Often confused with winged liner, this style takes things a step further by extending and thickening the liner toward the outer corners, creating that unmistakable feline effect. It’s a staple in bold eyeliner looks and a favorite for evening makeup looks.

To create a cat-eye, line the upper lash line from the inner corner, gradually thickening the line as you move outward. At the outer corner, extend the liner upward and slightly outward, making the wing longer and more dramatic than a standard winged look. For extra intensity, you can also softly line the lower lash line and connect it to the wing.

Pro Tip: Gel or liquid eyeliner gives the sharpest, most defined cat-eye finish. For added drama, keep the outer corner thicker and slightly tapered for that classic, cool eyeliner look.

5) Tightlining Eyeliner

Tightlining is the ultimate secret weapon for achieving fuller-looking lashes and naturally defined eyes—without making it obvious that you’re wearing eyeliner. This technique is perfect for minimalist makeup looks or anyone who wants subtle definition with maximum impact.

To tightline, apply eyeliner directly along the upper waterline, pressing the liner gently between the lashes. This fills in any gaps at the lash roots, making your lashes appear thicker and your eyes more defined, all while keeping the look soft and clean.

Pro Tip: Use a waterproof pencil or gel liner for tightlining to prevent smudging or transfer. Black adds drama, while dark brown creates a softer, more natural finish.

6) Waterline Eyeliner

Waterline eyeliner is a classic technique that instantly adds depth and intensity to your eyes. Whether you want a bold, dramatic stare or a soft, sultry vibe, lining the waterline can completely transform your eyeliner looks with minimal effort.

To achieve this style, gently pull down the lower lid and apply eyeliner directly along the lower waterline. Black or dark shades create a striking, defined effect, while nude or white liners help open up the eyes and make them appear bigger and brighter—perfect for fresh, everyday makeup looks.

Pro Tip: Always use a creamy, waterproof pencil specifically designed for the waterline to avoid irritation and smudging. For sensitive eyes, opt for ophthalmologist-tested formulas.

7) Smudged Eyeliner

Smudged eyeliner is perfect for creating soft, sultry, and effortlessly cool eyeliner looks. Instead of sharp lines, this style is all about a slightly messy, lived-in finish that adds depth and drama without looking too harsh. It’s a go-to for smoky makeup looks and relaxed, edgy vibes.

To get this look, apply eyeliner along the upper or lower lash line, then gently smudge it using a smudging brush, cotton swab, or even your fingertip. The goal is to blur the edges while keeping the color concentrated near the lashes.

Pro Tip: Pencil or kohl eyeliners work best for smudged looks since they’re creamy and easy to blend. For extra intensity, smudge before the liner fully sets.

8) Colored Eyeliner

Colored eyeliner is one of the easiest ways to experiment with fun, bold, and cool eyeliner looks without changing your entire makeup routine. From electric blues to emerald greens and pastel hues, colored liner instantly adds personality and freshness to your makeup looks.

You can apply colored eyeliner just like a classic liner along the upper lash line, or use it as a pop of color on the waterline or wing. It pairs beautifully with neutral eyeshadow for a balanced yet eye-catching effect.

Pro Tip: If you’re new to color, start with deep shades like navy, plum, or forest green—they’re bold but still wearable. Bright and neon shades work best when paired with minimal eye makeup.

9) Double-Winged Eyeliner

Double winged eyeliner is a bold, statement-making style that instantly turns heads. This edgy look features two wings extending from the outer corner of the eye, adding depth and drama to your eyeliner looks. It’s perfect for creative makeup looks, photoshoots, or when you want something truly unique.

To create this style, draw a classic wing along the upper lash line, then add a second, thinner wing just below it or from the lower lash line. Keep both wings sharp and clean for a striking, graphic finish.

Pro Tip: A liquid liner with a fine tip is essential for precision. Sketch the wings lightly first, then go back and define them once you’re happy with the shape.

10) Reverse Wing Eyeliner

Reverse wing eyeliner flips the classic wing on its head—literally. Instead of focusing on the upper lash line, this edgy style places the drama along the lower lash line, creating bold, unexpected eyeliner looks that feel modern and high-fashion.

To achieve this look, apply eyeliner along the lower lash line and extend it outward into a wing at the outer corner. You can keep the upper lash line minimal or bare to let the reverse wing stand out, or softly balance it with a thin upper liner.

Pro Tip: Smudge the lower liner slightly for a softer, smoky effect, or keep it sharp with liquid liner for ultra-graphic cool eyeliner looks.

11) Fox Eye

The fox eye eyeliner look is all about lift, elongation, and a snatched outer corner. Inspired by runway and celebrity makeup looks, this style creates a sharp, upward pull that makes the eyes appear longer and more lifted.

Fox Eye

To create a fox eye, draw a thin liner along the upper lash line and extend it outward and slightly upward. Add a subtle flick at the inner corner pointing downward for extra definition, then keep everything sleek and elongated.

Pro Tip: Gel or liquid eyeliner works best for this look. Stick to thin, precise lines and avoid thick liner on the center of the lid to maintain that lifted fox-eye effect.

12) Floating Crease Eyeliner

Floating crease eyeliner is one of the most artistic and cool eyeliner looks you can try. Instead of lining the lashes, the liner “floats” above the crease, creating a graphic, editorial-style effect that instantly elevates your makeup looks.

To achieve this style, look straight into the mirror and trace your natural crease with eyeliner, keeping the line detached from the lash line. You can keep it thin and minimal or go bold with thicker lines and dramatic shapes.

Pro Tip: Liquid liner with a precise tip is essential for clean lines. For beginners, lightly sketch the shape first, then go over it once you’re confident.

13) Graphic Eyeliner

Graphic eyeliner is where creativity truly takes center stage. This style goes beyond traditional shapes and focuses on bold lines, sharp angles, negative space, and artistic designs. If you love experimental cool eyeliner looks and runway-inspired makeup looks, this one’s for you.

Graphic eyeliner can be minimal (a single sharp line) or dramatic (geometric shapes, extended wings, or abstract patterns). The key is precision and confidence—this look is meant to stand out.

Pro Tip: A highly pigmented liquid liner with a fine tip is essential. Map out your design lightly first, then go in and perfect the lines once you’re happy with the shape.

14) Egyptian Eyeliner

Inspired by ancient beauty rituals, Egyptian eyeliner is bold, dramatic, and undeniably powerful. This iconic style features extended inner and outer corners, creating an intense, elongated eye shape that feels regal and timeless. It’s a standout choice for statement eyeliner looks and dramatic makeup looks.

To recreate this look, line both the upper and lower lash lines, extending the liner outward into a long wing. Don’t forget the inner corner—sharpening and elongating it is what gives this style its signature Egyptian makeup vibe.

Pro Tip: Use a deep black or dark brown gel or liquid liner for maximum intensity. Pair with bronzed skin and bold lashes for a truly striking finish.

15) Halo Eyeliner

Halo eyeliner is a modern, eye-opening style that focuses on creating balance and brightness. Instead of emphasizing the outer corners, this look highlights the center of the eyes, making them appear bigger and more awake—perfect for fresh, trendy makeup looks.

To achieve halo eyeliner, apply liner along the upper and lower lash lines but keep the inner and outer corners lighter. Concentrate definition toward the center of the eye, often pairing it with a bright or shimmery shade in the middle for a glowing effect.

Pro Tip: Keep your eyeliner soft and blendable. Pencil liners work beautifully for this look, especially when paired with mascara focused on the center lashes.

Types of Eyeliner Formulas

Ask yourself a few quick questions:

Are you in the mood for something soft and natural, or bold and dramatic?
Do you want an eyeliner that’s quick and effortless, or are you happy to take your time?
How long do you need it to last—light wear or all-day, budge-proof?
Do you prefer precision, blendability, or versatility?

Keeping these in mind will make choosing the right eyeliner formula so much easier.

Pencil Eyeliner
Cream Eyeliner
Gel Eyeliner
Liquid Eyeliner

Let’s dive in.

Pencil Eyeliner

Pencil eyeliner is the OG, the eyeliner most of us started with and still reach for on busy days. It’s beginner-friendly, forgiving, and perfect for creating natural, everyday makeup looks.

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A pencil liner allows you to draw thin or thick lines along the lash line, smudge for a softer effect, or add subtle definition to the eyes. Brown pencils are especially great for achieving a natural finish, while black adds more intensity.

Pencil eyeliners are also ideal for:

Tightlining (lining the lash roots for fuller-looking lashes)
Waterline application (opt for waterproof)
Defining the lower lash line

That said, because pencils are slightly firmer in texture, they’re not always the best choice for ultra-precise or graphic eyeliner styles.

Pencil Eyeliner Pros

Easiest and most convenient to use
Great for soft, natural, or smudged eyeliner looks
Perfect for everyday wear
Quick application and widely available in many colors
Very forgiving if you make mistakes

Pencil Eyeliner Cons

Requires frequent sharpening for precise lines
Not ideal for sharp wings or crisp graphic looks
Doesn’t last as long as gel or liquid formulas

Pro Tip: If you want convenience without sharpening, try a mechanical pencil liner. Just don’t twist up too much product—it can snap easily.

Best For:

Makeup beginners
Quick, on-the-go application
Anyone lining the waterline safely

Cream Eyeliner

Cream eyeliners usually come in small pots (and sometimes pencil form) and are applied using a brush. They have a soft, smooth texture that glides effortlessly across the lid and blends beautifully.

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This formula is a favorite for smoky, sultry eyeliner looks because it smudges easily before setting. Cream liners also feel gentler on the delicate eye area since they don’t tug on the skin.

They strike a nice balance, more precision than pencils, but softer and more forgiving than gel or liquid liners.

Cream Eyeliner Pros

Excellent for smoky and blended looks
Softer and more natural than gel or liquid
Offers moderate precision with the right brush
Available in bold colors and shimmery finishes

Cream Eyeliner Cons

Pot versions require a brush
Can smudge too easily if not set
Not as long-wearing as gel or liquid formulas

Best For:

Beginners and intermediate users
Smoky-eye lovers
Anyone who wants more control than a pencil but less intensity than liquid

Gel Eyeliner

Gel eyeliner is the sweet spot between cream and liquid. It comes in pots or pencil form and has a thicker consistency that makes creating sharp, defined lines much easier.

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This formula is perfect for bold eyeliner looks like winged liner and cat-eye styles, but it’s still versatile enough to smudge out for softer effects—if you work quickly.

Gel liners glide smoothly, feel comfortable on the eyes, and are known for their impressive staying power.

Gel Eyeliner Pros

Long-lasting and highly smudge-resistant
Great for precise, defined eyeliner looks
Requires only a small amount of product
Less messy than liquid eyeliner
Gentle on the eyelids

Gel Eyeliner Cons

Pot formulas require a brush
Dries quickly, so blending must be done fast
Can dry out if left open
Takes some practice to master

Best For:

Beginners ready to level up
Those who want precision without going fully liquid
Anyone who loves versatile eyeliner styles

Pro Tip: Gel pencils are a great hybrid—easier than pot gels, smoother than traditional pencils, and excellent for the waterline.

Liquid Eyeliner

Liquid eyeliner is the queen of bold, dramatic eyeliner looks. It’s the go-to formula for sharp wings, graphic designs, and high-impact styles that demand precision.

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Liquid liners come with either brush tips or felt tips. Brush tips offer flexibility for ultra-fine details, while felt tips provide more control and are often easier for beginners.

This formula dries quickly, delivers intense pigmentation, and lasts all day—but it does require a steady hand and some practice.

Liquid Eyeliner Pros

Unmatched precision and sharpness
Rich, high-intensity color payoff
Dries quickly with minimal smudging
Perfect for wings, graphic liner, and statement looks
Excellent longevity, especially for oily lids

Liquid Eyeliner Cons

Difficult for beginners
Not suitable for smudged or soft looks
Should not be used on the waterline
Can be tricky to remove
Mistakes set quickly if not fixed fast

Best For:

Experienced makeup users
Bold, dramatic eyeliner lovers
Anyone needing long-lasting, budge-proof wear

Pro Tip: If liquid liner feels intimidating, apply it in small dots or dashes first, then connect them. You can also use tape or an eyeliner stencil for symmetry.

Final Thoughts: Finding Your Perfect Eyeliner

At the end of the day, eyeliner isn’t about rules; it’s about expression. From soft, barely-there definition to bold, dramatic statement eyes, the right eyeliner formula and style can completely transform your makeup looks.

Whether you gravitate toward the ease of a pencil, the blendability of a cream, the precision of a gel, or the sharp impact of liquid liner, each formula offers something unique. The key is choosing what fits your skill level, lifestyle, and mood. Some days call for quick and natural; others call for bold wings, graphic lines, or striking cool eyeliner looks.

Don’t be afraid to experiment. Try new textures, play with different shapes, and step outside your comfort zone, that’s how you discover what truly works for you. With so many eyeliner ideas and styles to explore, eyeliner becomes more than just makeup; it becomes a creative tool.

So grab your favorite liner, have fun with it, and remember: confidence is the best finishing touch to any eyeliner look

Different Types of Eyeliner Looks: The Perfect Guide to Formula & Styles