Formal brunch. Two words that make people panic over dresses, mimosas, and whether they need to look like they're going to a wedding. But the real question isn't "are lashes required?" — it's "what kind of lash energy does brunch actually ask for?" The honest answer is: maybe. But in a good way.

THE REAL QUESTION: WHAT DOES 'REQUIRED' EVEN MEAN?

'Required' is way too strong for any makeup look. But brunch at a nice spot often means bright natural light, good photos, and a crowd of people who definitely noticed the tiny gap in your lash line. So while no one will kick you out for going bare, lashes can take your look from "I rushed" to "I woke up like this." The trick is choosing the right kind.

5 TIMES LASHES MAKE BRUNCH BETTER (AND 2 TIMES TO SKIP)

• When the venue is a rooftop or a spot with natural light. Lashes give your eyes contrast in daylight. Without them, your mascara disappears.
• When there's a photo wall. You're going to want your eyes to show up in pictures, not get lost in a filter.
• When you've slept 5 hours. Lashes are the fastest way to fake an 8-hour night. They open up your eyes instantly.
• When your outfit is simple. A black dress and lashes look intentional. A busy top and lashes can feel like too much.
• When everyone else is wearing them. Brunch with your group chat means you already know the rule: mild social pressure.

And the 2 times to skip lashes entirely:

• Cozy backyard brunch with zero mirrors. You don't want to apply lashes in a car mirror and then spend two hours praying they stay put.
• When your eyes are already irritated. Let them breathe. A little mascara is enough today.

HOW TO CHOOSE BRUNCH LASHES WITHOUT OVERDOING IT

Think: wispy, natural, and lightweight. You want the lash to look like a great natural result, not like an announcement. Go for a soft curl and a band that disappears into your lash line. Avoid heavy volume or dramatic long corners — that's night out energy, not brunch energy.

Apply them after your eyeshadow, press the band gently with your fingers, and go with a thin layer of mascara to blend your natural lashes into the strip. You'll be surprised how much lighter you feel when your lashes aren't fighting for attention.

THE BOTTOM LINE ON BRUNCH LASHES

Brunch lashes aren't about following a rule. They're about giving your face a finishing touch that makes you feel polished, confident, and ready for a plate of eggs. When in doubt, choose a lash that makes you say, "This but natural, please." That's the right answer.

Are natural lashes ever enough for brunch?

Yes, if your natural lashes already have amazing curl and length. But if you find yourself curling and re-curling three times, a strip lash will save you time.

What kind of lashes should I avoid for brunch?

Avoid anything with a thick, black band that sits like a crayon line on your lid. That reads as costume, not chic.

📚 Browse our complete library of lash guides →