The Double Eyeliner Trick: How to Master This ’60s-Inspired Eye Lift

here’s a new (well, vintage) eyeliner hack taking over our feeds, and it’s giving all the old-Hollywood, wide-eyed glam we’ve been craving. Enter: the double eyeliner trick — a retro beauty move that’s back and bolder than ever. If you’ve seen that dreamy, doe-eyed look on celebs lately and wondered how do their eyes look so big and bright?, this is it.

Spoiler: it’s easier than it looks — and the payoff? Major.

What Is the Double Eyeliner Trick?

It’s the ultimate optical illusion. The double eyeliner trick uses two different eyeliner shades — one deep and one bright — to reshape and enhance your eyes without surgery or filters. Think lifted, wide-awake, and vintage screen siren realness.

Here’s the formula:

• Black eyeliner (or brown, if you want something softer) is applied along the upper lash line and just below the lower lash line.
• White or nude eyeliner or creamy eyeshadow is used on the lower waterline to create contrast and make the whites of your eyes pop.

The real key? Keep the top and bottom lines separate. Don’t connect them at the inner or outer corners — this is what creates that open, lifted look.

How to Get the Look with Laura Mercier

Ready to try it yourself? Here’s how to slay the double eyeliner look using Laura Mercier icons:

1. Line & Define the Top

Start with Laura Mercier Caviar Tightline Eyeliner in Tuxedo (black) or Cocoa (mahogany brown). Dip your brush into a bit of water, and press the color directly into your upper lash line for a clean, bold shape that hugs your eye.

Pro Tip: Follow the natural curve of your eye — no need to wing it out unless you’re feeling extra.

2. Brighten the Waterline

Use a nude or soft white eyeliner or eyeshadow (like our Caviar Stick Eye Shadow in Vanilla Kiss) and sweep it across the lower waterline. This instantly lifts the eyes and gives that "8 hours of sleep" energy.

3. Lower Lash Line Detail

Take the Caviar Tightline Eyeliner again and apply a straight, soft line just under the lower lashes. Think of this as the lower "frame" for your new, larger eye shape.

4. Lashes That Go the Distance

No double liner look is complete without major lash drama. Curl your lashes and swipe on Laura Mercier Caviar Extravagant Mascara — or go full-on vintage with a half-strip of falsies on the outer corners for that lifted effect.

Pair It With...

Since the eyes are the star of the show, keep the rest of your look soft and neutral:

• Blush: A touch of Blush Color Infusion in Fresco on the cheeks for that effortless flush.
•  Lips: Go subtle with Petal Soft Lipstick Crayon in Maia + a dab of gloss for a fresh, French-girl finish.
• Powder: Lock it all in with the Translucent Loose Setting Powder — because creases don’t belong in this fantasy.

Why We Love It

The double eyeliner trend is giving vintage drama in the best way — no heavy contouring or layers needed. It’s flattering on all eye shapes, totally customizable, and perfect for both everyday slay and glam nights out.

Try it once and watch the compliments roll in.