How To Achieve The Perfect Spider Lashes Without Going Overboard

Plenty of people think that when it comes to lashes, there's not much to do makeup-wise besides applying mascara (and potentially falsies). The truth, however, is that even lashes can be styled differently. Whether you're going for a subtle brown mascara or foxy lashes that tilt towards your temples — lashes are just as versatile as the rest of your makeup. And one trend that regularly comes back around fall time is spider lashes.

"Spider lashes are clumped together intentionally to create an animated, doll-eyed appearance," Nicole Bueno, a makeup artist with The Only Agency, tells us exclusively. "This makes the lashes resemble spider legs. Creepy but cute!" This dramatic look is certainly going to have all eyes on you — and that is the point. After all, spider lashes are anything but subtle. "I think spider lashes, along with many other fun and whimsical trends happening now, not just in beauty but with fashion, music, film, lifestyle, etc, are popular because of the current climate of the world," Bueno adds. "History has shown that during intense periods, people are looking to escape and to preserve and celebrate their inner child. Wearing spider lashes and brighter colors, listening to fun, campy pop music, and watching whimsical movies are really easy ways to do so." And if you don't know where to begin, here's how to ensure this fun makeup look doesn't become too overwhelming!

Spider lashes are eye-catching on their own, so if you're worried that you'll end up looking like you did costume makeup, just follow this rule: Keep the rest of your makeup simple and classic. "When it comes to makeup, there are levels to everything," Nicole Bueno explains exclusively to Glam. "Ultimately, it depends on the context of the occasion and what you are comfortable with."

The easiest way to explore spider lashes is to simply add them to your no-makeup makeup routine — this way, the lashes will only add a bit of fun to your look without overwhelming your appearance. "I pair this with a tinted sunscreen instead of foundation, a little concealer, tons of blush, and bronzer, and finish the look off with the classic clear Lipglass by MAC," Bueno reveals. The more comfortable you get with time, the more you can explore adding other fun elements, such as metallic eyeshadow or bright lipstick. Bueno also recommends sticking with mascara that matches the color of your natural lashes if you're after a subtle look.

If you want to go for spider lashes that are more on the dramatic side, opt for false lashes. "I love KISS, particularly the Gold Hoops style," Nicole Bueno shares with us exclusively. "I love how wispy and delicate these are by Kiss! A great way to achieve the look in a light, airy, almost fairy-like way."

And if those don't seem dramatic enough for you, Bueno shared a second, even bolder option. "If you need a little more drama, this Winks line by Ardell is perfect," she added, explaining that the style is pre-cut. "Use just half a strip on each eye for a flirty look or a full strip for more glamour!" And if strip lashes aren't your thing, you can also add some additional drama to your spider lashes by strategically placing individual lashes where your natural lashes clump. 

In fact, if spider lashes scare you, they make an awesome Halloween look during spooky season, and Bueno has shared numerous spider lash looks on her social media for inspiration.

Either way — with or without falsies — spider lashes are a fun and quirky trend to try out this season!