Home Tips & Trends Makeup Trend Reviving Retro: Blue Eyeliner’s Chic Return to the Spotlight


Reviving Retro: Blue Eyeliner’s Chic Return to the Spotlight

From Cleopatra to Catwalks: The Evolution of the Blue Eyeliner Trend

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Need to shake up your beauty routine with a pop of unexpected color? Whenever I start to feel a little bored with my same old/same old eyeliner look, I love to add a little blue to the mix and the results are always gorgeous. And I have been noticing that eyes lined in blue are starting to gain some traction again…and yes, I am seeing a trend! But blue eyeliner is more than just a trend; it’s a statement. It’s a way to express your individuality and add an element of surprise to your makeup routine. Sure, I used to smear blue all over my eyes in the 80s when I was a teen, but now the look is all grown up: bold, chic, and it’s surprisingly versatile.

I have even heard some beauty influencers say they use blue eyeliner to battle seasonal depression. Need to beat winter blues? Fight fire with fire! Also, last I checked, #BlueEyelinerTutorial has 4M views on TikTok.

Whether you’re a makeup pro or just dabbling in new trends, blue eyeliner offers an exciting twist to your beauty routine. Ahead, we explore the resurgence of this classic trend, understand its history, and guide you on choosing the perfect shade for your eye color. Plus, I’ve curated a list of the top 5 blue eyeliners that cater to every budget. Let’s redefine bold with a stroke of blue!

True Blue Trending Again on the Red Carpet

From Taylor Swift’s iconic electric blue eyeliner at award shows to Lupita Nyong’o’s stunning sky-blue accents at premieres, this trend is a favorite among the stars. Whether you’re a makeup maven or just starting to experiment, blue eyeliner offers a playful yet sophisticated twist to any look. Let’s quickly delve into why this timeless trend is taking over, again.

Celebrities Rocking Blue Eyeliner:

  • Taylor Swift: Often known for her classic red lip, Swift has also made waves with her electric blue eyeliner, proving that she’s not afraid to experiment with bold makeup looks.
  • Lupita Nyong’o: A true style icon, Nyong’o has been spotted with beautiful shades of blue around her eyes, complementing her outfits and showcasing her adventurous beauty style.
  • Katy Perry: No stranger to colorful makeup, Perry has embraced the blue eyeliner trend on several occasions, adding a pop of color that matches her playful personality.
  • Zendaya: Known for her trendsetting styles, Zendaya has occasionally opted for blue eyeliner, adding an edge to her sophisticated looks.
  • Rihanna: As a beauty mogul and fashion icon, Rihanna has rocked the blue eyeliner look, further cementing its status as a must-try trend.

The History of Blue Eyeliner

Blue eyeliner isn’t just a modern trend; it has historical significance. Its origins can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where both men and women used kohl, a substance created from ground minerals, to line their eyes in deep, rich colors including blue. This was not only for beautification but also to protect their eyes from the sun. In the 20th century, blue eyeliner became synonymous with iconic beauty looks, especially in the 60s and 80s, symbolizing both elegance and rebellion.

Why Blue Eyeliner is Trending Again

Fast forward to today, and blue eyeliner is enjoying a major comeback. It’s a fresh departure from the classic black or brown, adding a pop of color that can range from a subtle hint of navy to a vibrant electric blue. The beauty of blue eyeliner lies in its versatility and its ability to make a statement without being overpowering. It’s a way to add a playful edge to your look, suitable for both day and night wear.

Blue is such a great choice because it stands out for its unique blend of boldness and subtlety. Its charm lies in its versatility – it can be both a statement piece and a subtle enhancement. Unlike traditional black or brown liners, blue offers a refreshing pop of color that can brighten the eyes, making them appear more vibrant and lively. This hue has a magical way of complementing various eye colors, from enhancing the depth of brown eyes to intensifying the coolness of blue and green eyes. Moreover, blue eyeliner suits a range of skin tones, adding a touch of playfulness or sophistication depending on the shade and application style. 

Whether it’s a deep navy for a touch of elegance or a bright turquoise for a fun, summery vibe, blue eyeliner can elevate any look, making it a great option for anyone looking to amp up their makeup game.

How to Choose Best Blue Eyeliner Shade for Your Eye Color

  • Brown Eyes: Opt for a navy or cobalt blue to create a striking contrast that makes your brown eyes warmer and more vibrant.
  • Blue Eyes: Lighter shades like turquoise or sky blue can really make blue eyes pop, creating a harmonious and eye-catching look.
  • Green Eyes: Try a deeper blue like sapphire or cerulean, which beautifully complements green eyes, accentuating their natural brightness.
  • Hazel Eyes: Teal or indigo shades can bring out the multifaceted colors in hazel eyes, enhancing their complexity.

 

My Top 5 Blue Eyeliners for Every Budget

 

GXVE BY GWEN STEFANI Line It Up Clean 24-Hr Gel Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner ($20, Sephora)

This metallic electric cobalt blue gel liner always adds the precise amount of electricity, day or night.

Sephora

Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Chaos ($25, Ulta)  

Known for its creamy formula and long-lasting wear, this is perfect for bold, statement looks.

Ulta

L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Last Waterproof Pencil Eyeliner in Cobalt Blue ($9.99, Ulta)

Affordable yet impressive, this eyeliner promises all-day wear without smudging.

Ulta

NYX Professional Makeup Epic Wear Liner Sticks, Long-Lasting Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil, Turquoise Storm ($9.12 Walmart)

Great for experimenting with bold looks without breaking the bank.

Walmart

JOAH Make Her Gel-ous Gel Eyeliner with Self-Sharpening Pencil, Waterproof & Long-Lasting Color Definition, Deep Blue ($7.99, Amazon)

This no-tug waterproof eyeliner formula delivers intense color that glides on as effortlessly as a liquid liner with the control of a pencil.

Amazon
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Janene Mascarella