Let’s be real for a sec: who doesn’t want a huge collection of stunning false lashes without going totally broke? Building a lash collection doesn’t have to make your wallet cry, trust me! So, if you’re like me (a makeup-obsessed girly who drops way more money at Ulta than you’d care to admit), this post is for you. Today, I’m giving you all the tea on how to build a fab collection of false lashes while keeping things affordable.
Why False Lashes Are That Girl
False lashes are a total game-changer. Whether you’re going for that ultra-glam look or just need that extra pop on your natural days, lashes literally take any makeup look to the next level. And when you pair those falsies up with some winged eyeliner, chef’s kiss, you’ll be serving looks left and right.
But here’s the deal: false lashes can get pricey. You see those high-end styles with the fluffy perfection, and it looks like they’re calling your name. Then you peep the price and… yikes. $30 for one pair? Girl, let’s pump the brakes.
The good news is you can have bomb lashes for cheap. I gotchu.
Know What Types of False Lashes Fit Your Vibe
Before we hit the stores (or our fave online shops), it’s important to know the type of lashes you’re after. Like, are you going for everyday natural lashes that give your look a little oomph, or are we talking full-on drama for a Friday night out? I’m gonna break it down real simple:
- Natural lashes: These are your subtle, no-makeup-makeup-day lashes. They’re soft, fluffy, and pretty much just give your natural lashes a boost. Super cute and comfy.
- Volume lashes: Thickness on thickness. These lashes give your eyes a lot more drama and depth—they really open up your eyes. Perfect for when you’re feelin’ extra.
- Lengthening lashes: If you’re more into long, fluttery lashes (you know, that dreamy wisp), these bad boys will do just that. They give your lashes a longer, more defined look while keeping the volume lighter. Kind of like the lash version of “model off-duty.”
- Dramatic lashes: Full-on va-va-voom. If you’re about making a statement and turning heads from across the room, dramatic lashes are basically your oxygen. These are perfect for night-out glam or that extra level of fierce.
Budget-Friendly Lash Brands You’ll Definitely Stan
Now, here’s what everyone wants to know: which lash brands have your back without making your bank account scream in terror? The good news is there are tons of brands killing the game without crazy prices. Here are some personal faves:
1. Ardell
Okay, Ardell is a total OG. This brand has been around forever and they do not miss. You can snag a cute pair of Ardell lashes at practically any drugstore or beauty supply store, and it won’t set you back more than like $5-$10.
Their Wispies are a GO-TO for me. If I had a dollar for every time I grabbed these while standing in line at Target, I would literally be rich by now. These babies work for everyone and they come in multipacks. So vibe alert: bulk savings!
2. KISS Lashes
We literally love a brand that’s obsessed with our vibe. KISS has every type of lash vibe you can imagine (from natural to totally fab) and they’re budget-friendly too. I think most of their lashes fall somewhere in the $3-$12 range—earth-shattering savings, right?!
And KISS lashes are lowkey underrated for quality. Like, they’re durable; you can easily get a bunch of wears out of them if you take care of them right (more on that later).
3. Eylure
Another baddie in the drugstore lash scene is Eylure. If you haven’t tried Eylure yet, you’re sleeping. They’re stylish and they last. They have plenty of cute styles under $10 and sometimes even drop these crazy sales where you can stock up like a true lash-hoarder (no shame here; it’s a lifestyle).
4. Amazon Lashes
Listen—don’t sleep on Amazon lashes! It’s 2023 and we’re officially in the era where you can get a FIRE set of lashes straight from Amazon. Some really popular and PUFFY styles are getting major love online right now, and you can grab bundles—yes, bundles—of adorable lashes for $10-$15. We love bulk-orders, especially when getting your glam on a budget.
Building a collection of affordable lashes is basically a treasure hunt, but when you find the right brands, it’s pure gold.
Pro Tip: Don’t Forget Your Lash Glue, Obv
I cannot with people who toss on killer lashes and forget all about the glue! 🤦♀️ You do not want your lashes halfway hanging off your eyelids by hour one—talk about makeup horror stories. I’ve been there, and girl, it’s not a moment we’re tryna relive!
Duo Lash Glue is like, the TOTAL queen of affordable, long-lasting glue. It’s like $5 and you can snag it anywhere. It’s strong without peeling your lashes off, AND they have a brush-on version for the super glue-challenged (me). If you wanna splurge a little here, sure, but Duo is affordable and reliable.
Your lash glue is just as important as the lashes themselves. No one wants floppy lashes by the end of the night!
How to Reuse Your Lashes Like a Pro
Okay, so I know this post is about being on a budget—but one of the MAJOR hacks to keeping it budget-friendly is to make sure you use your lashes again and again! So, lemme walk you through how to get the MOST out of your falsies while still keeping them cute and fluffy.
Here’s a quick rundown on how to keep them looking fresh:
- Clean ‘em up: After a long day/night, carefully peel off any glue residue from the lash band. You can lightly run a cotton swab along the band if needed.
- Don’t soak them: Please PLEASE don’t drown your lashes in water or makeup remover. A bit of micellar water or makeup wipe on the band is great, but if you soak the whole thing, bye bye shape.
- Store them safely: Most lashes come in cute little trays—use them. Tossing your lashes in your makeup bag or on your vanity is a lash-ruining crime. Storage is key to rewearing.
Reusable lashes are the ultimate hack. A cheap pair turns bougie real quick when you wear ‘em more than once!
You can get up to 5-10 wears out of one pair if you treat it right! Yup, ten. That’s literally stretching your dollar in the most fabulous way possible.
Getting That Perfect Lash Look on a Budget
Finally, you can have all the lashes in the world, but what’s the point if they don’t look snatched on your eyes? Placement matters, and so does the process. Here’s my quick lash routine for getting bomb lash application:
1. Measure & Cut
Most of the time, false lashes are too long for your eye shape straight out of the box. So, measure them by holding them up to your lash line, and trim a little from the edges if needed. This keeps them comfy and avoids that weird “lifting” situation.
2. Use Tweezers or a Lash Applicator
Real talk: fingers can be clumsy when you need precision. Grab some tweezers or a lash applicator for steady hands and to make sure the application is CLEAN.
3. Wait on Your Glue
So many people just slap on the glue and immediately stick on the lashes. Nope, sis—wait about 30 seconds before applying. Let it get tacky. This will give you a stronger bond so your lashes don’t pop off mid-party!
4. Press Down the Edges
After applying the lashes, gently press the corners and middle of the band into your lashline with your tweezers. Hold for a few seconds to create that secure bond.
Snatch those false lashes with purpose, fam. It’s all in the technique!
The Final Tea on Budget False Lashes
So, here’s the deal: you don’t need to ball out to get a lineup of seriously gorgeous false lashes. With drugstore faves like Ardell and KISS, plus some sneaky Amazon finds, you can create a whole vibe without spending more than like $20. I mean, pair that with lasting techniques and some reusable hacks, and you’ll be set with lash looks that last—literally.
Now go ahead and build that budget-friendly lash collection that’ll have everyone staring (in a good way obvi). And hey, hit me up with your best lash selfies; I’m always trying to see my babes slay their beauty looks! 😘
Oh, and don’t forget your lash glue—seriously!
