Can kitten eyes be the new makeup trend to overthrow siren eyes?

The cat eye has been a beauty staple for decades - sharp, dramatic, and undeniably glamorous, paying homage to the feline creature the trend is named after. But lately, its softer sister, the kitten eye, has been stealing the spotlight. Sleek, minimal, and effortlessly chic, the kitten eye has become the go-to liner look for everyone from red-carpet regulars to Instagram divas. It’s the kind of look that whispers sophistication rather than shouts drama. Read on to know how to tap into this trend, right in time for fall.

What exactly is the kitten eye?

The kitten eye is essentially a softer take on the cat eye, paired with light, sultry makeup. Think subtle flicks, doe-eyed softness, and just enough mascara lift to enhance your gaze without overpowering it. Instead of sharp, extended wings, it focuses on a thin, precise line close to the lash line with a sharp, delicate flick that stops just past the outer corner. This results in a slight upward lift, creating a wide-eyed, doe-like effect. Think of it as a low-maintenance eye lift—subtle enough for the office, sultry enough for date night.

How to re-create it

While it might seem rather simple, acing the kitten eye trend lies in intensity and precision. A little too much may lead to the cat eye, and lesser intensities may turn towards a “barely-there” makeup look. 

Step 1: Prep the base

Apply an eye primer or dab concealer across your lids to prevent creasing. Dust on a neutral shadow or translucent powder to create a smooth canvas.

Step 2: Tightline your lashes

Use a waterproof kohl pencil to line the upper waterline. This step is key as we don't want smudges and leaks. This instantly makes lashes look fuller and defines the eye without any visible heaviness.

Step 3: Draw the line

This may seem like the most daunting step, but fret not—confidence is key. With a fine-tipped liquid pen (or gel with an angled brush), start from the middle of the lash line, keeping the stroke ultra-thin. Extend toward the outer corner, hugging the lash line as closely as possible.

Step 4: Create the flick

At the outer corner, angle your line slightly upward toward the tail of your brow. Keep it short and delicate—the hallmark of the kitten eye. Think 2–3 mm max.

Step 5: Connect and soften

Connect the flick back to the lash line for a seamless finish. If you want a daytime look, smudge it with a brush for softness. For the evening, leave it crisp.

Step 6: Lift with mascara

The last but most crucial step. Curl your lashes and coat them generously, concentrating product on the outer lashes to emphasise the flick. For extra drama, add half lashes or corner falsies.

And there you go! You’ve achieved your kitten eye. The kitten eye’s power lies in its effortless elegance. It flatters every eye shape, doesn’t overwhelm smaller eyes, and transitions seamlessly from day to night. Whether you want to look polished for a work meeting or effortlessly glam for an evening out, the kitten eye is your answer. Shop these products to help you recreate the look. 

Sephora Collection Boost + Lock 12hr-Wear Eye Primer, ₹1,500

Kay Beauty Eye Kanvas Discover Eyeshadow Palette Power, ₹699

Mac In Extreme Dimension 24Hr Kajal Eye Liner, ₹900 

Too Faced Better Than Sex Foreplay Lash Primer, ₹2,550

Kiko Milano Micro Tip Eyeliner, ₹1,150

Clinique High Impact Zero Gravity Mascara, ₹3,050

Lead image credit: Getty Images 

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