I’ve always loved the look of false lashes, but sadly, they’ve never loved me.
On other people, they look amazing. Fluffy, fluttery and flamboyant. Yet most of the times I’ve attempted them they don’t work and end up in a spidery ball in the bin. Maybe it’s the faffing with glue, the tacky fingers, the trimming to fit your shape or the spiky edges - somehow, I never nailed the false lash.
With Christmas and New Years Eve coming up, I was sent some lashes to review by Ardell to give a go. At first, I was sceptical that these lashes were any different from the pharmacy bought ones I’d attempted in the past. They looked the same, except maybe a bit lighter, elegant and soft. With my club fisted hand, my expectations remained low. However, one thing I did notice after fossicking through the PR box was the application tool, which I’d never had before. I thought it might make putting on the lashes a bit easier (it’s kind of a flat plastic tweezer).
So, armed with a range of ‘Naked’ lashes and glue in hand, I resolved to attempt to the falsie try - One. Last. Time.
A bit of background for all you false lash connoisseurs out there: In 1971 Arnold Miller founded the Ardell brand alongside his wife Sydell. Through combining their first names Ardell was born. Apparently, the founders were inspired by the false lashes in films from the early twentieth century, a la Greta Garbo (that gal had class). Ardell is truly cruelty-free. They don't test finished products or ingredients on animals, and neither do their suppliers or any third-parties. They also don't sell their products where animal testing is required by law. Depending on the style, they’re both synthetic or made of human hair. With proper care, they can also be worn multiple times, with contact lenses and when you’re sleeping (so versatile!). While Ardell Wispies and Demi Wispies are their bestselling lashes (apparently they are universally flattering and feature an Invisiband for a seamless look and comfortable wear), Ardell also sells magnetic lashes (who knew!), mascara, false lash adhesive, Mega Volume lashes, brow pomade and so, so much more. Frankly, it’s a bit overwhelming. However, the proof would be in the pudding: what was it like to apply?
The Natural Lash style which I tried boasts a few really good features for a false lash newbie like me: they’re feather-soft and lightweight with a soft, supple and comfortable ‘Invisiband’ for all-day wear. The idea is that they subtly enhance your own lashes without completely covering them. I personally found that unlike other lashes I’d tried in the past, which were stiff and difficult to move into place, the Ardell lash was easy to apply even in a rush. I applied the duo glue to the band, let it sit for 3 minutes to get tacky and then aimed the middle of the band for the middle of my eye (I’m sure that that isn’t the proper approach but you know - figuring it out!). I found the glue stuck without getting tacky and gummy - a real advantage when trying to get my lashes to stick.
As predicted, what really made a difference was the Ardell Dual Lash Applicator. One end features a curved end which allows for a secure grip and hold of the lash during the application process. The other end has an angled rubber tip that helps you get firm adhesion of the lash to the lash line when it is applied. It was gentle and easy for a beginner like me to use. I followed the lash application with a slick of Hourglass liquid liner and some bronze eyeshadow. Finally, I applied a few layers of mascara to finish this look.
In conclusion, I’d definitely seek out Ardell again to work false lashes into my makeup look. While not something I’ll be rocking every day, I like that now I know a false lash range which suits me and is perfect for a big, fun night. You can buy these in Wellington from cult beauty store Beauty Bliss. Happy Holidays! I hope you have lashings of joy!
