The 70s retro look is everywhere right now. I see it on runways, in music videos, and honestly, on my own face when I want to feel cool. But when I first tried to create the look, I grabbed a pair of super thick, heavy lashes and ended up looking like a '70s sitcom villain. The secret to the real retro lash is not drama — it's separation. It's a lash that looks like you have naturally full, feathered lashes, but better. Here's how to choose lashes that give you that free-spirited, groovy vibe without looking like a costume.

THE 70S LASH SHAPE: WHY IT'S NOTHING LIKE TODAY'S 'NATURAL' LOOK

Think Twiggy, not Kim K. The fibers are not uniform. They come in little clusters that fan out, especially at the outer corner. The length is usually medium — 8 to 12mm — and the curl is pronounced but not overwhelming. This shape makes the eye look wider and more open, which is why it suits almost everyone. The key difference is the 'flare' — the lashes spread out like a fan. Modern lashes often have a dense, uniform strip. Retro lashes have gaps and texture.

THE 5 RULES FOR CHOOSING RETRO LASHES (WITHOUT LOOKING LIKE A COSTUME)

1. Look for 'spiky' or 'flared' in the description. Avoid anything labeled 'volume' or 'dense'.
2. Check the length. The longest fibers should be at the outer edge, not the center. This creates the signature 'wing' that elongates your eye.
3. The band should be thin but slightly stiffer than a natural lash. A floppy band won't hold the upward flare.
4. Go with a matte finish. Shiny fibers make the lashes look plasticky in photos.
5. Test the 'wiggle' — a retro lash should wiggle slightly when you touch the tips. If it's rigid, it will feel heavy.

HOW TO PAIR 70S LASHES WITH YOUR MAKEUP

The lash is the star, so keep the rest minimal. Use a thin line of dark brown or black liner that ends in a subtle flick. Skip heavy eyeshadow — a wash of warm bronze or peach is enough. Curl your natural lashes first, then apply the falsies. This helps them blend. For the lower lash line, leave it bare or add a single coat of mascara to keep the eye open.

RETRO LASH STYLES: WHICH ONE FITS YOUR VIBE?

Style	Length	Shape	Best For	Occasion
Classic Twiggy	8-10mm	Spiky, separated	Round eyes	Daytime, festivals
Farrah Flick	10-12mm	Flared, feathered	Hooded eyes	Dates, dinner
Disco Wing	12-14mm	Dramatic flare	Almond eyes	Parties, photoshoots

QUICK ANSWERS ABOUT 70S RETRO LASHES

Are 70s lashes suitable for everyday wear?

Yes. A pair with a shorter length, like 8-10mm, can pass for a naturally full lash. Save the longer ones for special occasions.

What's the difference between 70s lashes and normal falsies?

Normal falsies often have a uniform, dense strip. 70s lashes have gaps, texture, and a flare at the outer corner. They look airier and more 'feathered'.

Can I wear 70s lashes with glasses?

Yes, as long as you choose a pair with a moderate curl. Avoid the Disco Wing if your lenses are thick.

THE RETRO LASHES I REACH FOR WHEN I WANT THAT '70S FEELING

Now, if you're thinking 'I want that exact look' — I get it. As a beauty editor, I've tried more lash styles than I can count. The ones that give me that 70s energy without any effort are from PHANSTA LASHES. They have a retro-inspired pair that follows all five rules above: spiky, flared, matte, with a band that holds its shape. You can see them here.

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