Lash Extension Styles
Hi there, lash lovers!
Theres no doubt there are an unknowable amount of combinations of styles, shapes, and sizes when it comes to lash extensions. This craft is not a "one size fits all." For this reason it is our responsibility as a lash artist to go through a thorough consultation with our client to determine what best suits their eye shape and lifestyle.
There are a few ways to tackle how we can decide on a shape and style for our clients. One way is to determine the clients eye shape and goal. for example:
If the client would like to elongate the eye we can direct them towards a cat eye shape. Or if they would like to achieve an illusion of an "open eye" we would consider placing the longest lengths in the center of the eye. Consider your clients eye shape when choosing a style for better results.
In order to keep away from overwhelming your client, i would recommend having 4 go-to styles to choose from. This will allow them to have options but keep them from feeling so overwhelmed with an endless amount of choices. The following are examples of different lengths throughout the eye on the same model, Natalie, showcasing the different styles an artist can create and giving an illusion of different eye shapes. Follow along for a breakdown of 4 popular shapes and please let me know in the comment section which shape you think fits Natalie best.
THE “OPEN EYE” STYLE
When clients say they feel they have small eyes, I recommend the "Open Eye" look. This style, in particular, is described as a rainbow shape meaning the lashes are longer in the middle and shorter in both the inner and outer corners.
THE “NATURAL SWEEP” SHAPE
This style follows the natural lash line. In general, our lashes are shorter on the inner corner of the eye. As we follow the eye to the outer corner, they gradually get longer following the lash line to the outer corner and shorter again only on the most outer corner of the eye.
Again, the lashes are longest under where the brow naturally creases down. If you are hesitant about which style suits you best, we usually recommend you start with a "natural shape" and then re-visit other styles during your second appointment.
THE “CAT-EYE” SHAPE
The Cat-Eye shape is longer on the outer corner of the eye and tapers down into a shorter length as you move into the inner corner, creating a foxy flip on the outer corner. This look is recommended to those who like the winged liner look and an illusion of a longer, or elongated, eye. One neat trick I recommend is using up to 6 lengths or more for a super dramatic look or 3-4 sizes for a slight Cat-Eye. The more lengths used, the more dramatic the look. In this set, I used 6 sizes. 14mm on the outer corners and continued sizing down until using 9mm for the inner corner.
THE “DOLL EYE” SHAPE
The "Doll Eye" shape means the lashes are the same length all around. In my opinion, this style is the most dramatic whether you decide on short lashes all around or long lashes all around. I want to point out that when it comes to choosing a length, a shorter length will give a fuller look and a darker lash line compared to a longer length, which will provide a more wispy look.
PRO TIP: When using this style with long lengths such as 15mm, I recommend making an exception in the most inner corner and advise you to go down shorter in length (maybe use 13mm in the inner corner). If the lash artist uses a super long size in the inner corner, there is a chance the lashes will clash into the nose and can cause discomfort to the client.