yelash extension styles on different eye shapes: Cat Eye, Doll Eye, Squirrel, Wispy and Natural.

How to Choose the Right Lash Style for Your Eye Shape

Best Lash Styles for Different Eye Shapes (Map, Curl & Length Guide)

Not every lash style suits every eye. As lash artists, our goal is to enhance each client’s natural beauty with the right lash map, curl and length. Whether you’re a beginner lash tech or a client choosing a look, this guide explains how to pick the best eyelash extension style for your eye shape.

Popular Eyelash Extension Styles (Explained)

Cat Eye — Longer lengths toward the outer corners create a lifted, elongated effect.

  • Best for: almond eyes, round eyes, close-set eyes (draws attention outward).
  • Notes: keep outer weight balanced to avoid pulling the eye down.

Doll Eye — Longest lengths through the centre to open and brighten the eyes.

  • Best for: smaller eyes, hooded eyes, deep-set eyes; anyone wanting a wide-eyed look.
  • Notes: soften inner/outer corners for a smooth blend.

Squirrel — Gradual increase in length from inner to outer third with a soft taper at the tail.

  • Best for: most eye shapes; a subtle lift that looks natural in photos.
  • Notes: super versatile for everyday wear.

Wispy / Strip-Lash Style — Textured “peaks and valleys” for a fluffy, spiky, editorial finish.

  • Best for: statement lovers, bigger eyes, glam sets.
  • Notes: mix lengths and fans; keep bases neat for retention.

Natural / Classic — Even lengths and soft curls to enhance without heavy drama.

  • Best for: all eye shapes; first-timers; office-friendly looks.
  • Notes: choose curls that match the client’s natural lash curvature.

Lash Styles by Eye Shape (What to Choose & What to Avoid)

Round Eyes

  • Choose: Doll Eye or soft Cat Eye to elongate and balance.
  • Avoid: overly heavy outer corners that exaggerate roundness.

Almond Eyes

  • Choose: Cat Eye or Squirrel (you can wear almost anything—lucky!).
  • Pro tip: refine with tailored curls (C/CC/D) to match brow angle.

Hooded Eyes

  • Choose: Doll Eye or Squirrel to open the lid space.
  • Avoid: very heavy fans on the outer corners that can weigh the set down.

Downturned Eyes

  • Choose: Squirrel or Doll Eye to lift the outer third.
  • Avoid: strong Cat Eye maps that extend too far past the tail.

Monolid Eyes

  • Choose: Wispy or Doll Eye for definition and brightness.
  • Pro tip: lift with stronger curls like D or L for an eye-opening effect.

Close-Set Eyes

  • Choose: Cat Eye or soft Squirrel to pull focus outward.
  • Pro tip: keep inner corners lighter/shorter to avoid crowding.

Featured Products to Create These Looks

Lash Tech Tips (Mapping Like a Pro)

  • Use mapping stickers and sketch your length transitions before you start.
  • Take a before & after photo to assess symmetry and top line.
  • Match curl (C/CC/D/L) and diameter to natural lash strength for safe weight and better retention.
  • Refine the map with the client’s brow shape and bone structure—it all ties together.
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