Trend-Filled Thursdays: Heavy Eyeliner at the VMAs

Ashlee Simpson rocking some pretty serious eyeliner

While watching the VMAs this past Sunday, I was intrigued not by the musical performances or the crazy outfits. No, I was checking out the eyeliner. And why, you may ask? Because a slew of celebs decided to line their eyes so thickly and heavily, their eyes simply called out to me as a beauty writer! But they weren't just lining their eyes any which way. The liner traced each and every part of the lashline, forming a new take on the traditional cat eye.

But what really caught my eye -- pardon the pun! -- is that the liner went right into the inner corners of the eyes, forming a triangle shape that really kicked the liner up a notch. It's just such a sexy, sultry, sensual look that's absolutely perfect for your next big night out! From Ashlee Simpson to Rihanna, this trend is totally sweeping the celeb nation. Check out these pics for proof!

Christina Aguilera made a bold eyeliner choice

Rihanna's heavily lined eyes

What you really want to keep in mind, whether you're using liquid liner or an eye pencil, is to create a really straight, precise line. I prefer pencil, since it's easier to trace without making mistakes. But liquid liner will really make your eyes pop -- so if you're brave, it's the way to go! Here are the liners that will help you recreate the look perfectly.

Smashbox Jet Set Waterproof Eye Liner ($22 at smashbox.com): This liner is the perfect blend of pencil and liquid. It smudges just enough to give you that sexy "I just rolled out of bed and didn't feel like reapplying my eyeliner" look -- and is precise enough to really get into the inner corners.

M.A.C Eye Pencil in Ebony ($13 at maccosmetics.com): Hands down, this one is my fave. I love that it never smudges or fades, even when drawn inside the waterline. Plus, it just draws on super-thickly and darkly, and looks absolutely flawless.

Stila Smudge Pots ($18 each at stilacosmetics.com): Oh, Smudge Pots. How do I love thee ... let me count the ways. First, your creamy goodness. Second, your rich and long-lasting color. Third, your ability to transform my eyes from drab to fab with the simple sweep of a brush. Fourth, your wide range of colors. Do I really need to go on?

Tarte Indelible Wink ($22 at sephora.com): Formulated with the brand's signature Skinvigorating ingredients, this dual-ended liner contains a liquid liner on one side and a powder on the other. The powder works to set the liner in place so it doesn't budge all day long -- and trust me, it works! The liquid is just thick enough to get a really great line, and since the brush is so thin, it's seriously easy to draw that line precisely.