Eyeliner has a sort of superpower – in just a few strokes it can transform a makeup look that's soft and minimalist to one that's ready to party .
And the most exciting bit is that there is no rule on how you apply your liner; you can go for a bold stroke and channel your inner Amy Winehouse , get creative with a cool graphic or switch things up with a pop of colour.
While plenty of liners claim to stick with you through thick and thin, the reality is that many fall short of expectations, leaving you with panda eyes by lunchtime. That's why we've tested the most hyped formulas on the market to bring you the ones that really hit the mark.
Whether you're looking for a precise pen to draw detailed flicks, or a creamy formula to smudge over your lid, there's a hardcore liner out there that will withstand pretty much anything you throw its way, from an unexpected downpour to those 'got something in your eye' movie moments.
I once saw a lady doing her eyeliner on the tube using the Lancôme Idôle Eye Liner. After trying it myself, I now understand how she emerged from the Victoria Line without looking like a three-year-old attacked her face with a Sharpie.
This kohl-style pencil dries to an intense matte finish and lasts an impressive amount of time, even on the waterline. There are plenty of bold shades to choose from, but I love the creamy, rich-green ‘Grafton Street' for adding a pop of colour to my eyes.
If you're a liner newbie, I'd suggest starting with a brown formula. While a jet-black liner is a statement look, switching to a brown liner will give you more wiggle room to make mistakes – plus the overall look will be much softer.
