14 Black Eyeliner Looks That Are Anything But Boring

Black eyeliner is as iconic as red lipstick—classic, bold, and undeniably chic. But unlike the bright pop of a red lip, black eyeliner can be worn in more ways than one. Makeup artists have been breaking the mold at fashion shows, experimenting with new shapes and applying this eye-makeup staple using unexpected techniques. From double wings to bold cat eyes, black eyeliner has never been more adventurous. If you’ve been stuck in a liner rut, it’s time to embrace the edgy, creative side of basic black. Get ready to level up your liner game with these fierce, runway-inspired looks.

Parallel Lines

Two sharp, perfectly parallel lines above and below the lash line create a modern, graphic look that’s anything but ordinary.

Rounded Liner

Instead of winging out, keep the liner soft and rounded at the outer edges for a retro vibe with a fresh twist.

Floating Wing

Draw a bold, disconnected wing above your crease for an eye-catching, futuristic look that makes your eyes pop.

Cleopatra Realness

Channel your inner queen with a dramatic, thick wing that extends all the way to your temples, serving up ancient Egyptian glamour.

Lived-In Liner

Smudge your liner for that effortlessly cool, slightly undone look, as if you’ve been rocking it all night long.

Hooked Wing

Instead of a traditional flick, curve the wing downwards at the outer corner for a unique, hooked effect.

Underliner

Flip the script and apply your liner under your eyes only—perfect for adding drama without overdoing it on top.

Twin Flicks

Go for double the drama with two sleek flicks on each eye—one at the top, one at the bottom, for a playful, symmetrical look.

Blank Space

Create negative space by leaving gaps within your liner, giving a subtle, artistic edge to your standard wing.

Overextended

Take your classic wing and stretch it way past your usual boundary—think dramatic, exaggerated wings that command attention.

Exaggerated Cat Eye

The classic cat-eye but bigger and bolder, extending the flick upwards for a sultry, feline-inspired look that’s impossible to ignore.

Double Liner

Layer two distinct lines, one bold and one delicate, for a striking, double-take-worthy effect.

60’s Baby

Pay homage to the 1960s with bold, graphic lines along your crease—perfect for a mod, Twiggy-inspired look.

Heavy 360-Degree Liner

Line all the way around your eyes, both top and bottom, for a heavy, sultry look that brings intense drama and depth to your gaze.