How to choose eyeliner for your eye shape

Eyeliner is the most powerful tool for changing the apparent shape of your eyes. A well-placed line can lengthen, open or lift. Here are the three basic styles and who they flatter.

The three styles

Thin. A line hugging the upper lashes, finer at the inner corner and slightly thicker towards the outer edge. Definition without looking made up — perfect for the office.

Winged. The line extends past the eye, following the direction of your lower lash line towards the temple. It lengthens and lifts.

Smudged. A soft pencil applied and blended out straight away. Smoky and flattering, ideal for night and for anyone without a steady hand.

By eye shape

• Almond: everything works. The classic wing is your best friend.
• Round: a horizontal, elongated wing slims them. Avoid rimming the whole eye.
• Hooded: draw the wing with your eyes open, looking straight ahead, so it doesn't vanish into the fold. A slightly thicker line in the centre usually works better.
• Downturned: angle the wing upwards and don't take the lower line all the way to the end.
• Close-set: start the liner from the middle of the eye and thicken it outwards.
• Wide-set: take the line all the way to the inner corner.

Black, brown or grey

• Black: the most intense. Ideal for wings and night looks.
• Brown: softer; flatters light eyes and fair skin.
• Grey or taupe: the most natural for everyday.

Tricks for a perfect wing

1. Mark a dot where you want the wing to end, following the line of your lower lashes.
2. Connect that dot to the middle of your upper lid.
3. Fill in the triangle.
4. Clean up with a cotton bud dipped in makeup remover.

Nervous? Try it on your photo first: in the eyeliner try-on you can switch between thin, winged and smudged and see how each looks on your eyes.