Cat eyes are a Hollywood staple. Old school sirens like Marilyn Monroe, Sophia Loren and Brigitte Bardot made the look iconic, while the new guard of starlets including Lupita Nyong’o, Gwen Stefani and Elle Fanning keep the trend alive today, often giving it their own unique spin. And while it may seem intimidating to an eye-lining novice, we pinky-promise that with the right liner (we love Physician’s Formula’s) and a little practice you’ll be winging it in no time. Try it using the steps below, then post a pick and tag @PeopleStyleWatchMag (for Instagram) or @StyleWatchMag (on Twitter) #WingedLiner. Can’t wait to see your feline flicks!

Loni Venti

STEP 1 (top left):
Prime your lids with pressed powder. This creates a smooth base for your liner to easily glide over (and since powder absorbs oil, it also prevents any smearing throughout the day).

STEP 2 (top center):
Start lining at the inner corner of your eye (this is the easiest and most comfortable way to go). Keep the line thin and as close to your lashes as possible. Tip: Practice on the back of your hand first to see exactly how much pressure you’ll need to distribute the perfect amount of product.

STEP 3 (top right):
As you reach your iris, press a little harder on your liner pen or brush to make the line a bit thicker. Continue lining until you reach the end of your eyelid.

STEP 4 (bottom left):
Starting where you just left off, angle the “flick” up-and-out towards the tail-end of your eyebrow.

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STEP 5 (bottom center):
Now, trace over the top of your entire line, from the tip of the “flick” all the way to your inner corner. This will smooth it all into one seamless, up-swept line.

STEP 6 (bottom right):
Repeat on the other eye. Once you’re all lined-up, step about two feet back from your mirror to check for symmetry. Then, voila! You’ve got red-carpet worthy eyes, no glam squad required.

Have any foolproof cat eye techniques? Tell us all about them below!

–Loni Venti