We’ve all seen the videos and read the articles about dressing for your contrast level. The internet is overflowing with advice about which lipstick undertone to choose, what hair color will make your eyes pop, and even which jewelry metals complement your features best. But here’s what’s missing from the conversation: lashes.
Yes, lashes! While everyone’s focused on color theory and makeup palettes, we’re here to talk about how the right lashes can be your secret weapon for enhancing your natural contrast level. After all, your eyes are the focal point of your face – shouldn’t your lashes be just as thoughtfully chosen as your foundation shade?
Understanding Contrast Levels
Your contrast level is all about the natural difference between your features – think hair color, skin tone, and eye color. Here’s the quick breakdown:
Low Contrast: Your features are harmoniously similar (think blonde hair with fair skin, or deep skin with dark hair and eyes)
Medium Contrast: There’s a noticeable but subtle difference between your features (like light brown hair with fair skin)
High Contrast: Your features create bold differences (picture porcelain skin with jet black hair, or bright blonde hair with deep skin)
How to Determine Your Contrast Level
Not sure where you fall on the contrast spectrum? Here’s a quick self-check guide:
- Take a makeup-free selfie in natural lighting
- Convert it to black and white (most phones have this filter)
- Look at the difference between your features:
– If everything blends together smoothly, you’re likely low contrast
– If you can see clear differences but nothing dramatic, you’re medium contrast
– If you see striking differences between features, you’re high contrast
Lash Recommendations by Contrast Level
Low Contrast Queens
Your subtle harmony calls for lashes that enhance without overwhelming:
Falscara Brownie Wisps
Unlike traditional falsies, these game-changing wisps are tiny clusters of featherlight lashes that go under your natural lashes, making the bands invisible. The brown color provides a softer finish to blend with your natural color, creating that coveted “your lashes but better” effect, perfect for low-contrast beauties.
Still not convinced? Read why our beauty editor is obsessed with brown Falscara wisps.
KISS IRL Lashes in 'Glow Up Filter'
Ever wish you could bring your favorite lash filters to life? These tech-forward lashes feature a natural cat-eye look that’s subtle yet sophisticated. With medium length (7-11mm) and natural volume, they’re perfect for both your social feed and real life!
imPRESS Easy Tab Lashes in Classy Natural
When you want just a hint of flutter, these innovative lashes are your go-to. With mistake-proof Easy Tabs and no glue needed, they feature a curved band for easier placement. Perfect for those no-fuss gorgeous days!
Medium Contrast Mavens
You’ve got flexibility to play with both subtle and bold options:
KISS Lashes in 'Glowy Skin'
Winner of InStyle’s 2024 Red Carpet Beauty Award for “Best False Lashes,” these beauties are designed for that “no makeup, makeup” aesthetic. Their sparsely distributed lash pattern creates a flawlessly imperfect, natural-but-striking effect.
Falscara 'Natural Wispy Wisps'
The #1 selling “under lash” extensions for a reason! These featherlight fibers go under your natural lashes, letting you customize your drama level from day to night.
With invisible bands, they’re perfect for medium contrast queens who love versatility.
imPRESS Lashes in ‘Elegant Volume’
Winner of Cosmopolitan’s 2024 Holy Grail Beauty Award, these no-glue, pre-bonded lash clusters come in convenient minipacks. They add definition while keeping things believably beautiful.
High Contrast Stars
Your features can handle more drama:
KISS Lashes in 'Slip XL'
Part of the Lash Couture Triple Push-Up collection, these extra-long beauties feature lavish curl and full, fluffy layers for a striking spiky look. Perfect for when you want to make a statement!
imPRESS Lashes in ‘Bold Volume’
Another Cosmopolitan Holy Grail Beauty Award winner, these pre-bonded lash clusters deliver serious impact with zero hassle. No glue needed for these show-stopping beauties!
KISS Lashes in ‘Matte Velvet’
These Lash Couture Matte Black falsies feature the blackest black color ever, creating luxurious, maximum glam that looks and feels like genuine mink. With 3D volume and an ultra-thin, knot-free band, they’re surprisingly comfortable while delivering major drama.
The Beauty of Breaking Rules
Here’s the thing – while these recommendations are based on what naturally complements your features, makeup is all about self-expression! Want to rock a dramatic lash despite having low contrast features? Do it! Feeling like a subtle lash day even though you’re blessed with high contrast? That works too!
The best part about makeup is that there are no hard rules – just guidelines to help you achieve whatever look makes you feel most confident. Whether you’re reaching for those new Falscara brown lashes or going full glam with the IRL collection, it’s all about what makes you feel like your best self.
Remember, these recommendations are just a starting point. The real magic happens when you experiment and find what works for you. After all, isn’t that what makes beauty so fun?