How to Burlesque: Fake Eyelashes or 'falsies'- as published by Kelly Dinardo , Aug. 13 2009
In our monthly column How To Burlesque,Miss Frankie Tease brings you tips and advice on a mishmash of burly topics. Today, she dishes on how to apply false eyelashes.
Whether you have thick eyelashes or not, applying a false eyelash set can perk up the face for your photo or performance. Lashes come in strips, pre-made from human hair, or individual lash sets, which are great for accenting your already existing lashes.There are also metallic and colored falsies out there. Practice applying the falsies so they look as if they are part of your own lash line. You'll need a tube of lash glue, usually called lash grip. This can also be used to apply body jewels or pasties in a pinch, so it's great to keep on hand.
Squeeze some of the glue on to a tissue or small palette. Dip a toothpick into the adhesive and spread liberally onto the fake lash line on the side that will cover your natural lashes. Wait about 30 seconds for the glue to get tacky so that it adheres readily. Stare straight ahead into your mirror, look slightly up, with your brows raised to allow easy access, apply one lash. Follow the curve of your own lash line when you push the fake lashes. Do not push them onto your eyelid, but into your actual lash line. It may take a few tries, but this is a task that quickly becomes second nature. When you've got it down, try adding small rhinestones to the base of your lash line for an extra accent. Pretty soon you'll be carrying a spare set of false lashes and glue and won't be able to live without them. There are many advanced ways to 'pimp' the eyelashes and build them up with 2 or 3 pair. Regarding the modification of your store-bought lashes: start by cutting the eyelash down a little bit to fit the length of your eyelash line, and work your way into more advanced custumization after you've become comfortable with that.
Check out supplies for everything eyelash (and more) at the following retail stores in Portland OR. Naked City, 3730 SE Hawthorne Blvd. Wigland, 1011 NE Broadway. Spartacus, 300 SW 12th Ave. You can also find basic eyelash supplies at your local drugstore on the cheap. Rembember to mention if you are a teacher or performer so you can get your 15% off discount.
