Beth Bender Beauty In The News

Meow for new makeup – the cat eye is back!

TODAY Style editor Bobbie Thomas highlights the hot beauty trend

By Bobbie Thomas

TODAYShow.com contributor

Updated: 2:43 p.m. PT Sept 10, 2007

Bobbie Thomas TODAY Style Editor

If you've set your sights on a new look for fall, break out the black liner! Dark, drawn-on eyes are making a dramatic comeback this season. And whether you want to try out the winged tip or frame your eye with an all-around line, Bobbie Thomas, TODAY Style editor and author of the Buzz for “In Touch Weekly,” will help you get the look.

The top line
While a smudged, smoky eye has been hot for some time, the clean look of liquid liner is clawing its way back to the top this season. From makeup guru Pat McGrath's razor-sharp lined lids on Louis Vuitton's fall runway to ad campaigns and even celeb style, it seems that dark ink is adding edge to all eyes. This beauty trend is a not only a striking accessory, but easy for anyone to try — even if it's for one night only. Here are some products that will help you achieve this precisely penned appearance.

Bobbibrowncosmetics.com

Gel liners
Thanks to a new crop of gel liners, pencils are now being pushed aside. No more irritated eyes or embarrassing smudges. Those looking to line the inside of the upper and lower lids are obsessing over this latest revolution in beauty because the formulations are water-resistant, won't run and last for hours. Bobbi Brown's Gel Ink Liner ($19; bobbibrown.com) and MAC's Fluidline ($15; mac.com) are two beauty-insider favorites.

Covergirl

Liquid liners
For those who have the patience to practice like a pro, liquid liner can look amazing if it's done precisely. Estee Lauder's Double Wear Zero-Smudge Liquid Liner ($19.50; Macy's stores), Chantecaille's Luminous Eye Liner ($22; neimanmarcus.com) and Covergirl's LineExact ($5.99; drugstore.com) are all known to glide on gracefully. Start from the middle of your lash line and extend out while resting your wrist against your cheek or other hand. Then finish by connecting the line from the corner of your eye to where you made your first mark in the middle.

Stencils
For some extra help, or a dramatic “winged” style (if you dare!), you may want to use a stencil. Singer Amy Winehouse is known for her signature

Beth Bender/bettesboutique.com

thick black liner, and calls The Get in Line Kit from Beth Bender Beauty “absolutely brilliant.” The set offers step-by-step instructions for painting on the purr-fect eye ($36; bettesboutique.com). Bobbie's Buzz: If you are using a powder, fold a tissue in half, place against your lower lash line and cover the undereye before applying stencil.

The bottom line
Dramatically lined lids make a strong statement all on their own, so you don't want to go overboard with extra makeup. Avoid overdoing your eye shadow, and instead opt for false lashes, which will really help your liner to pop. As for lips, ruby red is the standard match for this look. But for a fresh, modern, fashion-forward face, pair your black liner with a nude lip — and all eyes will be on yours.