How To Do a Cat Eye?

A cat eye is one of the most iconic and flattering eye makeup looks. It’s the go to for anyone who wants to add drama and definition to their eyes.

Whether you’re heading to a special event, going for a bold evening look, or just experimenting with makeup, the cat eye is timeless, stylish, and fun to master.

In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to do a cat eye. We’ll cover the essential tools, techniques, and tips to make sure you can achieve this stunning look, no matter your skill level.

Table of Contents

What is a Cat Eye?

A cat eye makeup look involves drawing a winged eyeliner that extends beyond the outer corner of your eye, creating an upward flick that resembles the sharp, feline shape of a cat’s eye.

This style enhances the eyes and makes them appear larger, more defined, and captivating. The cat eye is versatile whether you want a subtle flick or a bold, dramatic line, you can customize the intensity.

Essential Tools for Creating a Cat Eye

Before we dive into the application process, let’s talk about the tools you’ll need to create the perfect cat eye. Having the right tools is key to achieving precision and a sharp, clean line.

1. Eyeliner

The type of eyeliner you use can make a huge difference in the final result. Here are the most common options:

Liquid Eyeliner: Provides the sharpest, most defined lines. Best for dramatic cat eyes.
Gel Eyeliner: A bit softer than liquid but still offers a defined look. Great for beginners as it’s more forgiving.
Pencil Eyeliner: For a softer, more natural cat eye. It’s not as defined as liquid or gel but still gives a beautiful flick.

2. Eyeliner Brush

If you choose gel eyeliner, you’ll need an eyeliner brush. Look for a small, angled brush for precision.

3. Eyelash Curler

Curling your lashes before applying eyeliner can make a big difference. Curled lashes help open the eyes and make the cat eye stand out even more.

4. Mascara

Mascara helps to complete the look, adding volume and definition to your lashes after applying eyeliner.

5. Makeup Remover/Corrector Pen

It’s normal to make mistakes while learning how to do a cat eye, so having a makeup remover pen or cotton swabs with makeup remover can help clean up any smudges.

How to Do a Cat Eye: A Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Prep Your Eyes

Before you start applying eyeliner, it’s essential to prep your eyes. This will ensure that your makeup lasts longer and stays in place.

Start by applying an eyeshadow primer on your eyelids. This creates a smooth base and prevents eyeliner from smudging.
If you want to add eyeshadow to the look, keep it neutral. A light beige or taupe works well as a base, while a slightly darker shade in the crease adds definition.

Step 2: Draw the Outline of Your Wing

The first part of creating the perfect cat eye is drawing the outline of your wing. This step involves mapping out where the flick will go, so it’s important to keep it symmetrical.

Find the direction of your flick. A common method is to align the eyeliner with the lower lash line. Imagine a line extending from the outer corner of your eye toward the end of your eyebrow. This is where your cat eye flick should point.
Use a pencil eyeliner or liquid eyeliner to lightly trace the outer flick first. Don’t worry about making it perfect this is just the guide.

Step 3: Create the Upper Line

Once the flick is outlined, it’s time to connect the line to your upper lash line.

Starting from the inner corner of your eyelid, draw a thin line along your upper lash line, gradually thickening it as you reach the outer corner.
Make sure the line tapers smoothly into the flick you created earlier. The outer wing should be thicker than the inner part of the eyeliner to create a sleek, dramatic effect.

Step 4: Fill in the Wing

Now that you have the basic shape of your cat eye, fill in the wing with your eyeliner. Be sure to fill it evenly, and keep the edges sharp.

If you’re using liquid eyeliner, let it dry before making any adjustments.
For a softer look, you can use gel eyeliner and a brush to smooth out any harsh lines.

Step 5: Perfect the Flick

To achieve that sharp cat eye look, it’s essential that the flick is clean and defined.

Use a makeup remover pen or a cotton swab with some makeup remover to clean up the edges and make them crisp. This will give the wing a defined, polished look.
If your flick isn’t symmetrical, you can use a cotton swab to gently adjust the shape until both eyes match.

Step 6: Apply Mascara

No eye makeup look is complete without a touch of mascara. After the eyeliner is applied, curl your lashes with an eyelash curler, then add a coat or two of mascara.

Focus on your outer lashes to enhance the length of the wing and complete the cat eye effect.
If you want a more dramatic look, you can also apply false lashes.

Tips for Perfecting Your Cat Eye

Getting the perfect cat eye can be challenging, especially when you’re first starting. Here are some tips to help you perfect the look:

1. Practice Symmetry

It’s common for the first attempts to look uneven. To keep your cat eyes symmetrical, always start with a light outline of the flick, then connect the lines and fill them in. Take your time, and don’t be afraid to use a cotton swab to adjust the shape.

2. Use Tape for Precision

If you’re worried about creating a straight, clean line, use a small piece of scotch tape to help guide your cat eye. Place the tape at an angle from the outer corner of your eye toward the end of your eyebrow.

This will give you a clean edge to work with.

3. Experiment with Different Shapes

A cat eye doesn’t have to be one size fits all. You can experiment with different wing shapes depending on your eye shape and the look you’re going for.

For example, a bold, long wing works great for evening looks, while a shorter, softer flick is perfect for a more natural cat eye.

4. Choose the Right Eyeliner

Different types of eyeliners can give you different results. Liquid eyeliner is perfect for a sharp, bold cat eye, while gel eyeliner can create a softer, more subtle flick. Pencil eyeliner gives a more natural look but is harder to perfect when it comes to sharpness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even seasoned makeup lovers make mistakes when trying to create a cat eye. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Uneven flicks: Always check for symmetry before filling in your lines. If one wing is longer or more angled than the other, fix it before continuing.
Thick lines: Cat eyes should start thin at the inner corner and gradually get thicker toward the outer corner. Avoid making the entire line thick, as it can make your eyes appear smaller.
Skipping mascara: Mascara adds the finishing touch to a cat eye. Without it, your eyes can look incomplete. Always apply a few coats of mascara to lift and define your lashes.

Conclusion

Learning how to do a cat eye might take some practice, but once you get the hang of it, it’s one of the most stunning eye looks you can master. Whether you go for a subtle flick or a bold, dramatic wing, the cat eye is a versatile style that works for almost every occasion.

Remember to practice, use the right tools, and have fun with the process. Over time, you’ll be able to create a flawless cat eye in just a few minutes!

FAQs

How do I get the perfect cat eye?
Start by lightly drawing the outline of your flick, then connect it to the upper lash line. Fill in the wing and perfect the edges with makeup remover.
Can I do a cat eye without liquid eyeliner?
Yes! You can use gel eyeliner or pencil eyeliner for a softer or more natural look, though liquid eyeliner offers the sharpest finish.
How can I make my cat eye look symmetrical?
Start by outlining both eyes with a light pencil liner, then fill them in once you’re happy with the shape. Use a cotton swab to clean up any mistakes.
Is a cat eye good for every eye shape?
Yes! A cat eye can be customized to suit any eye shape, from almond to round eyes. Adjust the length and angle of the flick based on your preferences.
How can I make my cat eye last all day?
Apply eyeshadow primer before your eyeliner and set it with a little translucent powder to ensure it stays in place throughout the day.