Beauty
Shape and defi ne your eyes with the perfect dramatic stroke.
words by > Christina Kallery
When done right, it’s undeniably sexy, mysterious and capable of transforming a girl-next-door-type into a five-alarm siren. But eyeliner also happens to be one of the trickiest cosmetics to apply: one false move and you’re left looking overly dramatic. Need a little guidance? Sharpen your pencils, because we asked Jane Iredale, makeup guru and creator of her eponymous mineral makeup line, to serve up a crash course in Eyeliner 101.
The Basics
“Liners should be kept close to the lash line,” Iredale says. “The purpose is to make lashes look longer and thicker. If there’s a space between lashes and line, it doesn’t work.”
Liquid Liner
“To get a straighter line, apply liquid liner with your eyes open,” Iredale advises. “Apply in short strokes—one at the inner eye, one at the outer, one in the middle and then connect the dots. It’s the easiest way.”
Colored Liner
“Colored liner looks best if it’s an extension of the color worn on the lid,” Iredale explains. “Otherwise it pulls the focus away from the eye. Cool eye colors stand out better at night.”
Smoky Eye
“The trick to a glamorous smoky eye is blending. The difference between good makeup and perfect makeup is one more stroke. Also, if you have warm undertones, black/brown will look softer than black. And don’t go too smoky if you’re very fair.”
PRODUCTS WE LOVE
Make Up For Ever Color Liner in Black
The ultra-slim brush lets you draw the finest of lines. www.makeupforever.com
Tarte Peepshow Palette Smokey Eye Kit
Comes with a pencil liner, plus sultry powder shadows and soft brushes that are just right for smudging. www.tartecosmetics.com
Dior Crayon Eyeliner Waterproof in #594
An intense brown/black shade that’s waterproof and oh-so-blendable. www.dior.com
Jane Iredale Cream to Powder Eye Liner in Jewel Box
A quartet of creamy liners in flattering, just-wild-enough jewel tones. www.janeiredale.com