The smoked out cat eye: a guide to smudged eyeliner

Whether you're looking to embrace a darker makeup look for the colder months or simply love the rock 'n' roll aesthetic, the smoked out cat eye is a signature style that never goes out of fashion. Unlike other eye makeup looks, the smudged eyeliner is easy to achieve and can flatter every eye shape. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to create the coolest and longest-lasting smudged eyeliner look, as shared by celebrity makeup artists.

Table of Contents

Defining the Smudged Eyeliner Look

The smudged eyeliner look is a minimalist version of the classic smoky eye. It's softer, worn-in, and gives off an effortless i just woke up like this vibe. This versatile style can range from minimalistic to dramatic and can be achieved using a variety of shades, from classic black and grey to vibrant rainbow hues. The shade you choose can create different vibes, with deeper matte shades adding sultriness and contrast to the whites of the eyes, bright matte colors creating a playful look, and shimmer-textured liners adding hints of color that change with the light.

How much you smudge your eyeliner can also affect the overall look. Level one is a subtle smudge close to the lash line, level two falls in between, and level three is a full-on grunge look reminiscent of the 90s.

The Best Way to Achieve Smudged Eyeliner

While you can apply eyeliner and smudge it with an eyeshadow brush, following these steps will give you a top-notch finish:

  1. Prep the area: Use an eyeshadow primer that matches your natural skin tone or is transparent to ensure long-lasting results.
  2. Line the inner rims: For a more intense look, apply eyeliner all the way around the waterline. Opt for a creamy-textured eyeliner that glides easily for seamless blending.
  3. Smudge the eyeliner into the lash line: Use the tip of your brush to start smudging the liner at the roots of the lashes, gradually expanding and stretching outward in your desired shape. This technique ensures full coverage and eliminates any visible skin.
  4. Apply eyeliner to the roots of the lashes: Once the waterline is done and the color has been smudged into the lash line, apply eyeliner to the roots of both your top and bottom lashes. Staying close to the lash line creates an easy smudged liner look that suits most eye shapes.
  5. Smudge again: Use your brush to smudge the applied liner into the desired shape. Repeat this process as many times as needed to achieve the desired intensity and shape. For a streamlined process, look for an eyeliner with a smudger on the opposite end.
  6. Add eyeshadow on top: Seal in the look by applying eyeshadow on top of the smudged eyeliner. Use a flat brush to pack the eyeshadow over the liner for a long-lasting finish. Consider using eyeshadow palettes with spreadability technology for a more intense finish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While a little messiness can add character to the smudged eyeliner look, there are some mistakes to avoid:

  • Avoid oily products: Before applying your eyeliner, steer clear of oily products around the eye area, such as eye cream. These can cause the makeup to move around and melt away. Apply eye cream and facial oils before going to bed instead.
  • Avoid liquid eyeliners: Liquid eyeliners can be difficult to smudge and may gunk up your smudging brush. Opt for creamy, waterproof formulas for easier blending.
  • Avoid liners with zero dry-down or fast-drying formulas: Look for eyeliners that provide enough time for blending and moving around to achieve your desired look. Creamy formulas with a dry-down and waterproof properties are recommended.

By following these tips and techniques, you can achieve the perfect smoked out cat eye with a smudged eyeliner look that lasts all day or night. Experiment with different shades and intensities to create your own unique style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I create a smudged eyeliner look with pencil eyeliner?

Yes, pencil eyeliners are great for creating a smudged eyeliner look. Choose a creamy-textured pencil liner that is easy to blend and smudge. You can use an eyeshadow brush or a smudging brush to achieve the desired effect.

How do I prevent my smudged eyeliner from smudging throughout the day?

To prevent smudging, make sure to set your smudged eyeliner with eyeshadow. Apply a matching or complementary eyeshadow shade on top of the smudged liner using a flat brush. This will help seal the eyeliner in place and prevent it from smudging throughout the day.

Can I wear a smudged eyeliner look for a daytime or casual occasion?

Absolutely! The smudged eyeliner look can be versatile and suitable for both daytime and casual occasions. Opt for softer shades or lighter smudging for a more subtle and effortless look. You can also experiment with different eyeliner colors to add a pop of color to your everyday makeup.

The smoked out cat eye with a smudged eyeliner look is a timeless and versatile makeup style that can be easily achieved with the right techniques and products. By following the steps outlined in this guide and avoiding common mistakes, you can create a stunning smudged eyeliner look that flatters your eye shape and lasts all day or night. Have fun experimenting with different shades and intensities to make this look your own.

If you want to know other articles similar to The smoked out cat eye: a guide to smudged eyeliner you can visit the Makeup category.

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