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How-tology: Instant Glam with False Lashes
Faking IT?
If you've been hassling with mascara to get the Twiggy look, you probably realized you aren't doing a very good job. Not even Maybelline Great Lash and a hydraulic curler will get you to the place you need to be to have glamorous, Marilyn Monroe bedroom eyes. False eyelashes are the way to go.
Strip IT?
This type of lash comes in a long, narrow strip. You can pick them up at your local drugstore or favorite beauty haunt. Be forewarned however, these can look garish and harsh if applied incorrectly or if you choose a brand that is poorly manufactured. We have a great line of Ardell strip lashes that are just the ticket.
Separate IT?
This type of lash comes in a package of individual lashes. Each cluster piece is individually applied. This takes a little more time and expertise, but the look is always 'au-natural'.
Choose IT?
Decide what look you’re seeking. A strip of false eyelashes are excellent for going clubbing or for an evening of glitz. For a more subtle look apply a few lashes to the outside corners of your eyes. Can't decide which is right for you? False lashes are inexpensive enough to purchase a set for your every whim!
Use IT?
Choose a color that complements the occasion. For evening, stick to black, which adds drama without requiring mascara. You brighten them up with colored mascara in shades of blue of green. In the daytime, go dark brown or light brown for a natural look.
Check their length. Full lashes should follow the natural line of your own lashes. Many false lashes are too long so you might want to trim them a bit.
Begin with clean eyes, no makeup. Hold the lashes in your hand and apply a very thin line of glue or adhesive along the base; let it sit for 1 minute. Only use a minimal amount of glue, you can always add more if needed.
Apply the false lashes above your eyelashes, as close to your lash line as possible, following the natural curve. Adjust the lashes with a tweezers.
If you’re using individual lashes, place them at the outside corners of your upper lashes one or two should be sufficient. Adjust their position with tweezers.
Remember: practice makes perfect. Don`t panic if you can`t get them right first time. Pretty soon you`ll be able to apply them in your sleep!
Don't sleep in your false lashes. Remove them with eye make-up remover or a bit of petroleum jelly. Never pull the lashes from your lids, as you may pull your own lashes out or rip your skin. Ouch!
The Six Basic Make-Up Brushes You Need
The trick to getting the right look with make-up often depends upon the tools you use. There is a huge amount of brushes, sponges, and applicators available and that can be a bit overwhelming. Getting your basics that you will use every day can be hard when faced with too many options. We took the liberty to narrow down the tools you really need for some seriously flawless make-up into 6 categories.
This brush is a true multitasker. The smooth, compact bristles allow for even application of powder and liquid based foundation. Size determine precision, so a smaller version is great for concealing while medium to large brushes are better for your general coverage. If you often use liquid or cream foundation this brush is kind of optional, there’s no better tools than your hands.
Cover with: Antonym Foundation Brush($22)
Conceal with: Antonym Concealer Brush($14), Tigi Concealer Brush($15)
This brush is great for applying blush or finishing powders to your face. Look for a loose bristle structure with a soft, rounded shape. The shape and lightness allows for even application of product that can be easily layered (a must for a natural flush of blush!). Use a smaller brush for blushes and loose powders, and the larger Kabuki model for all over coverage.
Cover with: Antonym Kabuki Brush($24), Antonym Powder Brush($30), TIGI Powder Brush($26)
Contouring is based on the principle of creating angles with high contrast colors for some striking dimension. Obviously an angled brush is great for this job. A good contour brush is what you use to precisely add your deeper tones or highlights in bold color streaks that hold.
Contour with: Antonym Contour Brush($21)
A shadow brush should be rounded, ideal for building color with a precise, small bristle. For more precision opt for a smaller brush that is tapered for line work. Get a brush with longer bristles to really apply lush amounts of color. Remember to check the bristle density, as a more compact bristle structure will hold and apply more product.
Shade with: Antonym Small Eye Shader Brush($14), Antonym Medium Long Eye Shader Brush($16), Antonym Large Eye Shader Brush
This tool is your finishing touch to your look. A blending brush there to buff out and soften color, blending make-up into your complexion for a natural look. The brush should be light, with fluffy bristle to gently blend shadows, highlight, or whatever else you have going for a smooth finish.
Blend with: Antonym Blending Brush($15), Tigi Blending Brush($15)
Angled brushes give you precise, clean lines that are must for a polished look. This brush is especially great for applying eyeliner, but also works great with eye shadows and creams. The bristles should be dense, flat, and sharp for the best linework.
Line with: Antonym Small Angled Brush($13), TIGI Angle Brush($12)