Short vs Long Fake Eyelashes: Which Length Is Right For You?

Wearing fake eyelashes is the quickest way to achieve fuller, longer lashes, but finding the perfect fit for your eye shape isn’t always easy. Almond, round, hooded or monolid eyes all need something slightly different, and understanding your eye shape is the first step in getting that natural (or dramatic!) lash look just right.

In this blog, we’ll break down the difference between long vs short eyelashes, helping you choose the best option for your eye shape and personal style. From how to apply them, to the pros and cons of both long fake eyelashes and short false eyelashes, we’ve got you covered with tips, tricks, and everything in between.

Long or Short False Eyelashes – How do You Choose the Right Length?

Fake eyelashes are strip lashes or individual clusters that you apply at home using lash glue, perfect for a quick beauty boost without the time or cost of salon treatments. Unlike salon lash extensions, which are professionally applied and semi-permanent, at-home lashes are temporary and can be reused, switched up, or removed at the end of the day. Whether you prefer long fake eyelashes for drama or short false eyelashes for a more natural finish, there’s a DIY lash style for every look.

Choosing the right lashes really depends on the look you’re going for. Short false eyelashes offer a subtle boost that’s great for everyday wear or finishing off a soft, natural glam. They enhance your eyes without stealing the spotlight. In contrast, long fake eyelashes bring the drama. They’re perfect for nights out, special occasions, or anytime you’re going full glam with your makeup.

When it comes to long vs short eyelashes, there’s no right or wrong, it’s all about what feels most like you. Want to keep things low-key and effortless? Short might be your go-to. Craving volume and impact? Long’s your best friend. Pick the length that suits your style, your mood, and your makeup look.

Invogue Lash Drama Queen

Is it Better to Have Short or Long Fake Eyelashes?

Ultimately, when it comes to long vs short eyelashes, the better choice really comes down to personal preference and lifestyle. Some people love the dramatic effect of long fake eyelashes, while others appreciate the simplicity and ease of short false eyelashes.

Long fake eyelashes have the ability to make your eyes appear larger and more defined, drawing attention to them. This kind of enhancement can also improve facial symmetry, helping you feel more confident and attractive. Long lashes bring that bold, glamorous look that’s perfect for special occasions, full glam moments, and evening events.

On the other hand, short false eyelashes are ideal for anyone who wants to add definition to their eyes without the feeling of heaviness. They deliver a softer, more natural effect, great for daily wear, work environments, or low-key makeup days. Shorter lashes tend to feel lighter and more comfortable, reducing the chances of irritation. And when it comes to long vs short eyelashes, short lashes are often the most versatile option, working beautifully with minimal makeup and suiting every eye shape.

Eye Candy Signature Lash Collection Demi

Pros of Long Fake Eyelashes

Long fake eyelashes are a go-to beauty accessory for a reason,  they’re bold, flattering, and effortlessly glam. Why else are they such a popular pick:

 

  1. Enhanced appearance: Long lashes can dramatically enhance your eyes, making them look bigger, brighter, and more defined.
  2. Time-saving convenience: Skip the mascara overload, long lashes give you that voluminous look without the clumps or extra effort.
  3. Camera-ready: In photos, long fake eyelashes often pop more than natural lashes, adding instant depth and drama.
  4. Perfect for creative makeup: From smoky eyes to bold liner, long lashes are made for statement looks and really let your makeup shine.
  5. Balance facial features: Long fake eyelashes can help soften or balance facial features, especially if you have naturally strong brows or fuller lips.

 

 

What About the Cons?

While long fake eyelashes are perfect for full glam looks and special occasions, they do have a few downsides,  especially if they’re not applied properly:

 

  1. Can feel heavy or uncomfortable: Long lashes often have more volume and length, which can make them feel heavy on your lids. Wearing them for extended periods might cause irritation or discomfort.
  2. Not glasses-friendly: If you wear glasses, long false eyelashes can brush up against the lenses. This can be distracting, affect your vision, and make them less practical for everyday use.
  3. Potential damage to natural lashes: Heavier lashes, combined with strong adhesives, can sometimes strain your natural lashes, especially if you’re not careful during removal. Over time, this could lead to breakage or fallout.
  4. Too dramatic for casual wear: When comparing long vs short eyelashes, longer styles can sometimes feel a bit too much for casual settings. If you’re after a more subtle, natural vibe, long lashes might stand out more than you’d like.
  5. Trimming is usually required: Most long fake eyelashes come in a one-size-fits-all strip, so trimming them to fit your eye shape is essential. Skip this step, and you risk lifting at the corners or an uncomfortable fit.

Let’s Look at the Pros of Short False Eyelashes

Short false eyelashes are the low-maintenance, high-impact choice for anyone who loves a natural look with minimal fuss. Here’s why they’re a staple in so many beauty routines:

  1. Light and comfortable: Short lashes feel barely there, making them ideal for all-day wear without irritation or heaviness.
  2. Great for beginners: If you’re new to falsies, short styles are easier to apply and less likely to need trimming.
  3. Perfect for everyday wear: Whether you’re heading to work, brunch, or just running errands, short lashes give you that polished look without going over the top.
  4. Natural finish: In the debate of long vs short eyelashes, shorter styles win when it comes to blending seamlessly with your natural lash line. They enhance rather than overpower.
  5. Works with any makeup style: From minimal makeup to a classic winged liner, short false eyelashes pair well with every look and suit all eye shapes.

Do Shorter Eyelashes Look Fuller?

Yes, short false eyelashes can actually look fuller because the volume is more concentrated along the lash line. This creates a naturally dense effect that enhances your eyes without relying on extra length. In the conversation around long vs short eyelashes, shorter styles often give your eyes a lifted, voluminous look while still keeping things understated.

Another bonus? Short false eyelashes won’t cover up your eye makeup the way long fake eyelashes sometimes can. If you’ve spent time perfecting your eyeliner or eyeshadow, shorter lashes let that work shine through. This makes them a smart, versatile choice if you want to define your eyes without overpowering the rest of your look.

 

 

What are the Cons of Short False Eyelashes?

While short false eyelashes come with plenty of benefits, they do have a few drawbacks worth considering:

  1. Less dramatic: If you’re aiming for bold or glam, short lashes might not deliver the same impact as long fake eyelashes. In the debate of long vs short eyelashes, longer styles usually stand out more.
  2. Fewer style options: There tends to be more variety available in longer lash styles, which can make short false eyelashes feel a bit limited if you like to experiment.
  3. Very subtle enhancement: Short lashes create a natural finish, but that also means the difference from your natural lashes might be barely noticeable, especially from a distance.
  4. Blending can be tricky: If your natural lashes are longer or thicker than the false ones, blending can be a challenge and might leave your lash line looking uneven.
  5. Not always makeup-friendly: Shorter lashes might get lost when paired with bold or dramatic eye looks, making them less versatile for certain styles.

How to Apply False Eyelashes

Whether you’re going long or short, there is one thing we all need to be certain on, and that is how to apply them! Long and short false eyelashes are applied in the exact same way:

 

Step 1: Measure and Trim

Hold the lashes up to your lash line to check the fit. If they’re too long for your eye shape, carefully trim from the outer edge. This step is especially important with long fake eyelashes, as excess length can cause lifting or discomfort.

 

Step 2: Prep the Lash

Lashes can flatten slightly in the packaging, which may lead to lifting at the corners once applied. To fix this, gently hold each end and roll the lash into a “U” shape. This helps restore the curve, so it hugs your lash line more comfortably.

 

Step 3: Apply Lash Adhesive

Using tweezers, pick up the lash and apply a thin, even layer of glue along the lash band. Wait around 30 seconds for the glue to go tacky, this prevents the lash from sliding around during application.

If you’re using an adhesive eyeliner pen instead, draw a line along your lash line and give it 20–30 seconds to get tacky before applying the lash.

 

Step 4: Apply the Fake Lashes

Using your mirror and tweezers, position the lash strip as close to your natural lash line as possible. Start by pressing down the centre, then secure the inner and outer corners. Gently press along the band to set everything in place. This step is key for both short false eyelashes and longer styles to ensure a seamless look.

 

Step 5: Final Touches

Use an eyelash curler if needed to blend your natural and false lashes, just be gentle to avoid damaging them. You can also add a thin line of eyeliner to hide the lash band and finish the look with mascara on your lower lashes.

Brushworks lash applicator

 

Long Vs Short Eyelashes – Which Ones are You Buying?

 

At the end of the day, long vs short eyelashes really comes down to your style, comfort, and the look you’re going for. If you love bold, dramatic eyes and want your lashes to take centre stage, long fake eyelashes are your go-to. Prefer something subtle, lightweight, and natural? Short false eyelashes might be the better fit.

Whichever side you’re on, or if you’re still deciding, we’ve got a full range of styles to suit every eye shape, occasion, and makeup mood.

Browse our false eyelashes online and find your perfect pair. From barely-there naturals to full glam lashes, they’re all just a click away.

 

Short and Long Fake Lashes FAQs

 

Are longer eyelashes more attractive?

Longer eyelashes are often seen as more attractive because they draw attention to the eyes, add definition, and create a more open, wide-eyed look. In many cases, long fake eyelashes can enhance symmetry and give a polished finish that feels instantly more glamorous. But in the end, attractiveness is subjective, some people prefer the subtle, natural appeal of short false eyelashes, especially for everyday wear.

When it comes to long vs short eyelashes, the most attractive lashes are the ones that make you feel confident.

What size lashes look natural?

For the most natural look, short false eyelashes in the 8mm to 12mm range tend to blend best with your real lashes. They add volume and subtle length without looking overly dramatic or fake. If you’re going for that “your lashes but better” effect, shorter styles with a wispy or fluttery finish are ideal.

Do shorter lashes last longer?

Short false eyelashes can sometimes last longer than longer styles,  simply because they’re lighter and put less strain on the lash band and adhesive. In the long vs short eyelashes conversation, shorter lashes are often more durable for everyday wear since they’re less likely to lift at the corners or feel uncomfortable over time.

That said, how long your lashes last mostly comes down to how well you care for them. Proper cleaning, gentle removal, and storing them in their original case can help extend the life of both.

Do long eyelashes make your eyes look bigger?

Yes, long eyelashes can make your eyes appear bigger and more open. By extending past your natural lash line, long fake eyelashes create the illusion of larger, more defined eyes, especially when paired with the right eyeliner or eyeshadow. They draw attention upward and outward, enhancing the shape of your eyes and making them stand out.

How to get false lashes to stay on longer?

To get fake eyelashes, to stay on longer, make sure they’re trimmed to fit your eye, use a strong lash glue, and wait until it gets tacky before applying. Press down the corners firmly and avoid oil-based products near your lash line to keep everything in place.

Can you make false eyelashes shorter?

Yes, you can absolutely make false eyelashes shorter. If your lashes feel too long or dramatic, simply trim them from the outer edge to suit your eye shape and preferred look. This works for both short and long fake eyelashes, just be sure to cut a little at a time to avoid over-trimming. It’s a quick way to customise your lashes.