Blue eyeliner tends to spark two reactions: either it brings back memories of the ’80s, or you absolutely love it. If you fall into the first category and remember applying it religiously back in the day—maybe even sneaking it on at your locker mirror—it’s time to give it another chance.
Blue eyeliner doesn’t have to feel like a blast from the past. Instead, it can be a stylish way to add depth to your look, whether you prefer a bold statement or something more subtle. A common misconception is that eyeliner should match your eye color, but the opposite is often more effective. Contrasting shades make eye colors stand out—brown eyeliner enhances blue eyes, while blue liner makes brown eyes pop. That said, blue eyeliner can work for everyone. The trick is to pair it with complementary eyeshadow shades like charcoal gray, gold, or warm brown to let the liner take center stage.
For a classic approach, apply blue eyeliner only to the upper lid. The thickness of the line determines the level of drama. A thin line in a soft blue shade, like Stila’s Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner, is perfect for a polished, work-friendly look. For a bolder, nighttime vibe, go for a thicker application, almost like an eyeshadow effect. Amp up the intensity with a vibrant blue, such as Make Up For Ever’s Aqua Eyes or Sephora’s Jumbo Liner. To make the color pop even more, layer it with another shade like gold or black for added dimension.
For a more daring style, try lining only the lower lid with blue eyeliner. Pair it with brown or gray eyeshadow on the upper lid to make the blue stand out. Again, the thickness of the liner determines how bold the look is—thin for a subtle, office-appropriate touch, thick for a statement-making night out. Clinique’s Quickliner is a great option for a precise, everyday look, while Yves Saint Laurent’s Yeux Haute Tenue, with its wide tip, delivers instant drama.
How far you extend the liner also affects the overall impact. Keeping it within the natural width of your eye creates a more understated effect, while extending it outward—channeling a Cleopatra-inspired wing—adds extra flair.
Need some celebrity inspiration? Look no further than Rihanna, Taylor Swift, and Jessica Biel, who all know how to rock blue eyeliner effortlessly.