If you’re new to false lashes, the world of lash styles can feel intimidating. With so many options—from bold spiky lashes to dramatic anime lashes to soft fluttery lashes—it’s hard to know where to start. But don’t worry: choosing the right lashes doesn’t have to be complicated. In this guide, we’ll compare three of the most popular lash styles—spiky lashes, anime lashes, and fluttery lashes—to help you find the best fit for your skill level. We’ll also share step-by-step tips for applying each style like a pro, so you can achieve a flawless look every time.
Let’s start with fluttery lashes—the best choice for beginners. Why? Because fluttery lashes are lightweight, wispy, and designed to look natural. They have a gentle curl and thin fibers, which make them easy to apply and comfortable to wear. Unlike thicker, more dramatic styles, fluttery lashes don’t require a lot of precision—even if you’re new to applying false lashes, you can achieve a polished look in just a few minutes. Fluttery lashes are also versatile: they work for everyday wear (like going to work or running errands) and special occasions (like a date or a birthday party). If you’re worried about false lashes feeling heavy or looking fake, fluttery lashes are the perfect solution. They add subtle volume and length to your natural lashes, making your eyes look brighter and more awake—without overshadowing your natural beauty.
Next, let’s talk about spiky lashes—a great option for beginners who want to try a slightly more dramatic look. Spiky lashes have separated clusters of fibers that create a “spiked” effect, which adds texture and definition to your eyes. While they’re bolder than fluttery lashes, they’re still easier to apply than anime lashes (more on that later). Spiky lashes are ideal for beginners who want to experiment with drama without going overboard—they’re perfect for night outs, concerts, or parties, but can also be dressed down for a casual look (pair them with a tinted moisturizer and lip balm for a “no-makeup makeup” vibe). When choosing spiky lashes for beginners, look for pairs with a thin, flexible band—this will make them easier to manipulate and apply. Avoid spiky lashes with thick, rigid bands, as they can be harder to fit to your lash line and may feel uncomfortable to wear.
Last but not least are anime lashes—the most dramatic of the three styles, and best suited for beginners who have a little more practice with false lashes. Anime lashes are inspired by the big, expressive eyes of anime characters, so they’re longer, fuller, and more eye-catching than fluttery or spiky lashes. They often have unique shapes—like extended outer corners or full strips that cover the entire lash line—which can take some time to get used to. But don’t let that scare you: with a little patience, you can master applying anime lashes. They’re perfect for cosplay events, themed parties, or anyone who wants to make a bold statement. If you’re new to anime lashes, start with a shorter, more lightweight pair (like those with wispy fibers and a thin band) before moving on to longer, more voluminous styles. This will help you build confidence and get a feel for how anime lashes sit on your lash line.
Now that you know which style is best for beginners, let’s dive into how to apply each one like a pro. First, let’s cover the basics: no matter which style you choose, you’ll need a few key tools: a pair of false lashes, lash glue (opt for a clear or black glue—clear glue is better for beginners, as it’s more forgiving if you make a mistake), a pair of tweezers (to help position the lashes), and a small makeup brush (to press the lashes into place). Before you start, make sure your natural lashes are clean and dry—remove any leftover mascara or makeup with a gentle remover.
Let’s start with applying fluttery lashes. Step 1: Measure the lash strip against your lash line. If the strip is too long (which it often is), trim the outer corner with a pair of small scissors—this will ensure the lashes fit your eye shape perfectly. Step 2: Apply a thin line of lash glue to the band. Wait 30 seconds to 1 minute for the glue to become tacky (this is key—tacky glue adheres better than wet glue). Step 3: Use tweezers to hold the lash strip by the outer corner. Place the strip on your lash line, starting at the outer corner (this is the easiest place to align). Step 4: Once the outer corner is in place, use the tweezers to adjust the inner corner. Press the band into your lash line using the tip of the tweezers or a small makeup brush—make sure there are no gaps between the band and your lash line. Step 5: Once the glue is dry, apply a coat of mascara to your natural lashes and the false lashes—this will blend them together and create a seamless look.
Next, applying spiky lashes. The process is similar to applying fluttery lashes, but there are a few extra tips to keep in mind. Step 1: Measure and trim the lash strip (same as above). Step 2: Apply glue to the band—since spiky lashes have separated clusters, make sure the glue covers the entire band (but don’t apply too much—excess glue can make the clusters stick together). Step 3: Wait for the glue to get tacky. Step 4: Place the lash strip on your lash line, starting at the outer corner. Since spiky lashes have more texture, take your time to align the clusters with your natural lashes—this will help the lashes look more natural. Step 5: Press the band into place, focusing on the outer corners (where the clusters are often longer). Step 6: Once the glue is dry, use a small brush to separate any clusters that stuck together—this will enhance the “spiky” effect. Finish with a coat of mascara to blend.
Now, applying anime lashes. This is the most detailed process, but it’s easy once you get the hang of it. Step 1: Measure the lash strip—anime lashes are often longer than other styles, so you may need to trim both the outer and inner corners to fit your eye. Step 2: Apply glue to the band—since anime lashes are fuller, use a slightly thicker line of glue (but still not too much). Wait for the glue to get tacky. Step 3: Hold the lash strip by the outer corner (which is usually longer) and place it on your lash line. Anime lashes often have a more dramatic shape, so make sure the outer corner is aligned with the end of your lash line (not too far out, or it will look unnatural). Step 4: Use tweezers to adjust the inner corner—anime lashes can be heavy at the outer corner, so make sure the inner corner is pressed firmly into place to prevent lifting. Step 5: Once the glue is dry, use a small brush to fluff the lashes—this will separate the fibers and make the shape look more defined. Step 6: Apply a thin line of black eyeliner along the upper lash line—this will hide the band and make the lashes look like they’re growing from your natural lash line. Finish with a coat of mascara.
Now that you know how to apply each style, let’s talk about common mistakes to avoid. For fluttery lashes: don’t apply too much glue—this can make the lashes heavy and cause them to lift. For spiky lashes: don’t pull the clusters apart too much—this can damage the fibers and ruin the “spiky” effect. For anime lashes: don’t skip trimming the lash strip—ill-fitting lashes will look unnatural and may be uncomfortable to wear. Another mistake to avoid (no matter which style you choose) is applying the glue directly to your lash line—always apply the glue to the lash band first, and wait for it to get tacky. This will prevent the glue from irritating your eyes and make the lashes easier to apply.
Finally, let’s talk about how to remove each style safely. To remove fluttery lashes, spiky lashes, or anime lashes, gently peel the band from your lash line (start at the outer corner and work your way in). If the glue is stuck, use a cotton swab dipped in makeup remover to loosen it—never pull or tug on the lashes, as this can damage your natural lashes. Once the lashes are removed, clean the band with a cotton swab and makeup remover, then place them back in their case. With proper care, your lashes will last for multiple wears.
In conclusion, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned lash lover, spiky lashes, anime lashes, and fluttery lashes all have something to offer. Fluttery lashes are the best choice for beginners (thanks to their natural look and easy application), while spiky lashes are great for those who want to experiment with drama. Anime lashes are perfect for making a bold statement—just be prepared to practice a little. By following the step-by-step tips in this guide, you can apply any of these styles like a pro and achieve a flawless look every time. So grab your favorite pair of lashes, and let’s get started!