In case you missed it, the classic cat eye has had a major update, and everyone is talking about it. Yes, I still love a classic winged liner. Always have, always will. It’s a staple for a reason: it’s simple, timeless, and pretty easy to perfect, with a little practice. What I also love though? Any way (or excuse) to mix it up a bit.
So, when I saw TikTok’s most recent viral makeup trend, I automatically knew I had to try it. The reverse cat eye took off when MUA Painted by Spencer (@paintedbyspencer) posted a TikTok makeup vid and subsequent tutorial of the look, which quickly prompted a tonne of others to try out the trend (#reversecateye currently has 13.7 million views).
The look is essentially as it sounds – a classic cat eye, but lined underneath the eye rather than on the lid. The end result is super smoky and sultry, but also pretty grunge-y and edgy – especially how Spencer styles it – with zero (zero) liner on the top of the eye. So much drama, we love it.
To recreate the look, you just need a black pencil liner, black eyeshadow, and a small detail eyeshadow brush. Apply the liner along the bottom waterline, extending it into both the inner and outer corners of the eye. Then, using the brush and a tiny bit of the black eyeshadow, blend the line, again extending a little outwards on the inner and outer corners and creating a wing shape on the outer corner. This will create a really diffused line and produce the smokey look we’re going for. Add some mascara, some lashes if you fancy it, and you’re good to go.
Of course, like all good trends, there has been a tonne of variations which we’re loving too. Bright coloured reverse cat eye? Reverse cat eye combined with a fierce eyeshadow look? Here. For. It. Whichever you opt for, this look is definitely one to try, especially now that we’re actually allowed out again (yay!) Plus, as Spencer points out – it’s pretty much fool-proof. What’s not to love? Need some inspo? We’ve got you.
By Beth Ryan
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