What Are Flat Lashes?
Flat lashes also commonly called cashmere lashes, ellipse lashes or silk flat lashes are a type of lash extension with a flattened, elliptical cross-section rather than the traditional round shape of a classic lash.
If you were to cut a flat lash in half and look at the cross-section, instead of seeing a perfect circle (like a classic lash), you'd see an oval or flat shape like a grain of rice. This seemingly small difference in shape actually changes a lot about how the lash performs, how it looks, and which clients it suits.
Flat lashes were developed to give lash technicians a way to achieve a darker, more dramatic result with less weight on the natural lash. Because of their flattened shape, they sit flush against the natural lash and reflect light differently creating a richer, more pigmented-looking result compared to round classic lashes at the same diameter.
You'll hear flat lashes called many things cashmere lashes, ellipse lashes, silk flats, flat classic lashes or split tip lashes. They all refer to the same thing: a lash extension with a flattened cross-section. At Meraki we sell them as Flat/Cashmere lashes.
The key properties that define flat lashes are their flat base (which increases adhesive contact area), their lighter weight (up to 50% lighter than a classic lash at the same diameter), and their darker appearance (because the flat surface reflects more light downward rather than in all directions).
What Are Classic Lashes?
Classic lashes are the original, most widely used type of lash extension. They have a perfectly round cross-section and are applied one extension to one natural lash giving a clean, defined, mascara-like result that's been the foundation of the lash industry for decades.
When most people talk about lash extensions, they're talking about classic lashes. They come in a wide range of diameters (0.10, 0.12, 0.15, 0.18, 0.20, 0.25mm), lengths (6mm to 18mm+) and curls (B, C, CC, D, L, M and more) giving lash artists an enormous amount of creative control over the final result.
Classic lashes are the standard starting point for every lash technician and remain the most commonly used lash type in salons across Australia and worldwide. They're reliable, versatile, and give a result that clients consistently love.
The Key Differences — Flat Lashes vs Classic Lashes Side By Side
Here's the complete breakdown so you can see exactly how these two lash types compare across every important characteristic.
| Feature | Flat Lashes | Classic Lashes |
|---|---|---|
| Cross-section shape | Elliptical / flat | Round / circular |
| Weight | Up to 50% lighter | Standard weight |
| Appearance / darkness | Darker, more dramatic | Natural, defined |
| Base contact area | Wider base — more adhesive surface | Smaller round base |
| Retention | Excellent — often better than classic | Very good |
| Suitable for fine lashes? | Yes — preferred choice | Depends on diameter used |
| Suitable for volume sets? | No — classic only | Yes |
| Creates mascara effect? | Yes — very effective | Standard classic effect |
| Recommended diameter | 0.10, 0.12, 0.15 | 0.10–0.25 depending on natural lash |
| Price difference | Slightly higher | Standard pricing |
"A flat lash at 0.15mm looks and feels like a 0.20mm classic more drama, less weight. That's the whole point."
Which Clients Suit Flat Lashes vs Classic Lashes?
This is where the real practical knowledge comes in. Understanding which lash type suits which client is what separates a good lash tech from a great one.
Clients who suit flat lashes best
- Clients with fine, thin or sparse natural lashes — the lighter weight protects delicate lashes while still delivering a dramatic result
- Clients who want a dark, bold, defined look without going into volume lashes
- Clients who have had retention issues with classic lashes in the past — the wider base often improves hold
- Clients who want a mascara-effect look — flat lashes naturally create this rich, darkened appearance
- Clients with sensitive eyes who find heavier classic lashes uncomfortable
- Clients wanting a natural-looking classic set but with more impact
Clients who suit classic lashes best
- Clients with strong, healthy natural lashes who can support a heavier lash
- Clients wanting a very natural, barely-there lash look at lower diameters
- Clients wanting mega drama — thicker diameters (0.18–0.25) for a very bold classic set
- Clients who are building toward a volume or mega volume set over time
- Clients who are used to classic lashes and haven't expressed any concerns about weight or retention
When in doubt with a new client who has fine or delicate natural lashes, always default to flat lashes. The lighter weight protects their natural lashes and the result will be more dramatic and longer-lasting than classic lashes at the same diameter.
Thickness Guide — What Diameter To Use With Flat Lashes
This is one of the most important practical points about flat lashes — and one that catches a lot of lash technicians out when they first make the switch.
Because flat lashes appear significantly darker and fuller than classic lashes at the same diameter, you usually need to go one thickness down from what you'd use in classics to achieve a similar look — and two thicknesses down if your client wants something more natural.
| If you use this in classics | Try this in flat lashes | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 0.20mm classic | 0.15mm flat | Similar or slightly bolder look, 50% less weight |
| 0.18mm classic | 0.15mm flat | Very similar result, noticeably lighter |
| 0.15mm classic | 0.12mm flat | Similar darkness, much lighter on natural lash |
| 0.12mm classic | 0.10mm flat | Natural look, extremely lightweight |
This is genuinely exciting for your clients with fine lashes — it means you can now give them a bold, full classic set that would have been too heavy using standard classic lashes. It opens up a whole new level of service for clients you previously had to keep very minimal with.
Do Flat Lashes Have Better Retention Than Classic Lashes?
This is one of the most searched questions about flat lashes — and the honest answer is yes, in most cases flat lashes do have slightly better retention than classic lashes. Here's why.
The flat base of a flat lash creates a larger contact surface area between the lash extension and the natural lash. More surface area means more adhesive contact, which means a stronger, more secure bond. Think of it like the difference between gluing a flat piece of wood to a wall vs a round rod — the flat surface simply has more bonding area to work with.
Additionally, because flat lashes are lighter, they place less mechanical stress on the natural lash over time. Classic lashes that are too heavy for a client's natural lashes will eventually cause premature shedding because the weight breaks down the bond faster. Flat lashes, being lighter, don't create that same stress.
Even with the improved contact area of flat lashes, proper prep is still essential. Clean, oil-free natural lashes will always outperform perfectly placed lashes on poorly prepped ones. Never skip your primer and protein remover steps regardless of which lash type you're using.
The only scenario where classic lashes might retain better is if a lash technician is applying flat lashes incorrectly — specifically if the flat base isn't sitting fully flush against the natural lash. If the flat base is twisted or angled, you lose the contact area advantage. Always apply flat lashes with the flat base directly against the natural lash surface.
Can You Mix Flat and Classic Lashes in the Same Set?
Absolutely and it's actually a beautiful technique that a lot of advanced lash artists use. Mixing flat and classic lashes in the same set gives you incredible creative control over the final look.
The most popular mixing techniques
Drama in the centre, natural at the corners: Use flat lashes through the middle third of the eye for maximum darkness and impact, then transition to classic lashes at the inner and outer corners for a more natural, tapered finish. This creates a gorgeous cat-eye inspired effect.
Alternating for texture: Alternate flat and classic lashes across the full lash line for a slightly textured, multidimensional effect. The flat lashes create those darker, richer focal points while the classic lashes add depth and natural variation.
Full flat with classic tips: Apply flat lashes to the full lash line but use a shorter classic lash on top of a few select flat lashes to create split-tip, wispy texture. This gives the drama of flat lashes with a softer finish.
When mixing flat and classic lashes, keep your adhesive consistent. Don't switch adhesives mid-set. Use the same glue for both lash types and apply with the same technique — the only thing changing is the lash shape.
The Meraki Flat & Classic Lash Range
At Meraki we stock both flat/cashmere lashes and classic lashes across a full range of diameters, lengths and curls. Here's what's available.
Flat / Cashmere Lashes
Our flat lashes are available in 0.15mm and 0.20mm, in C Curl and D Curl, across mixed length trays from 8mm–15mm and individual length trays. They're made from premium Korean PBT fibres for consistent curl retention and a rich, dark finish that clients love.
Classic Lashes
Our classic range covers 0.03, 0.05, 0.07, 0.10, 0.12, 0.15, 0.18 and 0.20mm diameters across C Curl, CC Curl, D Curl, B Curl, M Curl, L Curl and more. Whether you're doing baby classics, natural sets or bold full classics — we have you covered.
- 0.15mm C Curl — mixed tray & singles
- 0.15mm D Curl — mixed tray & singles
- 0.20mm D Curl — mixed tray
- Dark, dramatic finish
- Up to 50% lighter than classic
- Full diameter range 0.03–0.20mm
- C, CC, D, B, M, L Curl options
- Mixed length & single length trays
- Large & small tray formats
- Australian stock — fast dispatch
The Verdict — Which Should You Use?
Here's the honest answer: every lash tech should have both in their kit. They're not competing products — they're complementary tools that serve different purposes and different clients.
If we had to give you one clear rule, it would be this:
"Use flat lashes when your client has fine or delicate natural lashes, or when they want maximum drama from a classic set. Use classic lashes when your client has healthy, strong natural lashes and wants the traditional defined lash look."
If you've only been using classic lashes so far and haven't tried flat lashes yet, we genuinely recommend ordering a tray and experimenting on a willing client or practice mannequin. The difference in result is immediately obvious — and your clients with fine lashes will thank you for it.
And if you're a new lash tech trying to figure out which to focus on first? Master classic lashes first, then introduce flat lashes once you're confident in your technique. The fundamentals of lash application are the same for both — flat lashes are just a more specialised tool in your kit.
Frequently Asked Questions — Flat Lashes vs Classic
Classic lashes have a round cross-section like a cylinder. Flat lashes have an elliptical or flattened cross-section — like a flattened oval. This means flat lashes are lighter, have a wider base (better adhesive contact), and appear darker and more dramatic at the same diameter as a classic lash.
Yes cashmere lashes, ellipse lashes, silk flat lashes and flat classic lashes are all different brand names for the same thing: a lash extension with a flattened cross-section. At Meraki we sell them as Flat/Cashmere lashes.
Neither is better they're suited to different clients and purposes. Flat lashes are better for fine or delicate natural lashes and for achieving a dark dramatic look with minimal weight. Classic lashes are better for standard sets on clients with healthy, strong natural lashes. Every lash tech should have both in their kit.
In most cases yes and often slightly longer. The wider flat base creates more adhesive surface area which can improve retention. The lighter weight also reduces stress on the natural lash and bond over time. Correct prep and application remain the most important factors regardless of lash type.
Because flat lashes appear darker and fuller, go one diameter smaller than you would with classic lashes. If you typically use 0.15mm classics, try 0.12mm flat lashes. If you use 0.20mm classics, try 0.15mm flat lashes. The result will be similar in terms of impact but noticeably lighter on the natural lash.
Yes and it's a great technique. Many lash artists use flat lashes through the centre of the eye for drama and classic lashes at the inner and outer corners for a natural transition. You can also alternate them for a textured, multidimensional result. Use the same adhesive throughout.
Meraki Lashes & Beauty stocks a full range of flat/cashmere lashes in Australia with fast shipping Australia-wide. Our flat lashes are available in 0.15mm and 0.20mm in C Curl and D Curl across mixed and individual length trays. Free shipping on orders over $99 with same day dispatch from the Sunshine Coast, QLD.
Stock Up On Flat & Classic Lashes
Shop the full Meraki classic and flat/cashmere lash range. Fast Australia-wide shipping. Free delivery on orders over $99. Same day dispatch from the Sunshine Coast.
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