If you’ve spent more than 5 minutes scrolling through either TikTok or Instagram lately, you’ve likely come across the term Cumbrella eyelashes. These bold, ultra-dramatic lashes have been stirring conversations both in the beauty and internet culture words.
While some seem to be absolutely in love with their fluttery drama and unapologetic glam, others are raising eyebrows at the slang behind the name. But love them or side-eye them, one’s thing’s for sure, Cumbrella eyelashes has the entire internet on a chokehold.
In this guide, we’ll break down what exactly Cumbrella eyelashes are, how they became a trend and why they seem to be dominating conversations online. We’ll also take a deeper look into the origin story of fake lashes, the symbolism behind dramatic lashes and how to rock them without breaking a sweat. And yes, we’ll answer all your burning questions in the FAQ section too.
What are Cumbrella Eyelashes?
Cumbrella eyelashes are not your average strip lashes. These are ultra-voluminous, often long, curled and exaggerated lashes that will get you a lot of attention. They have bold curls, dense fibers, and a dramatic lift that often touches the brow bone.
Since their have such a unique flair, they are mostly preferred by those who want to level up their glam. You’ll typically see Cumbrella eyelashes in handcrafted or 3D mink styles. Although synthetic and cruelty free versions are also very popular.
They fit so well with heavy makeup looks like cut creases, glitter lids, smokey eyeshadows or even a bare face for that ultra-modern lash-and-go aesthetic.
Cumbrella Eyelashes Origin & Invention
The term Cumbrella didn’t originally start as a beauty industry label. It’s more of a social media slang and like many viral beauty terms, it walks a fine line between playful and controversial. The lashes themselves on the other hand gained popularity around 2022-2023, largely because of beauty creators on TikTok and Instagram.
Makeup artists and influencers showed off dramatic lashes which they referred to as Cumbrellas. Soon, brands caught on to the virality and some even started adopting the name in their product listings or hashtags. And what was once an internet meme became a marketable style.
As for who invented Cumbrella eyelashes product, no one so far has been credited with creating them. This is more of a style that just grew from the internet, beauty culture and Gen Z unfiltered sense of humor.
What is the Cumbrella Slang?
Let’s address the elephant in the room!
The slang Cumbrella comes from a cheeky mash up of ‘cum’ and ‘umbrella’. To mean, lashes that are so long and curved that they could theoretically catch…you get the idea. The phrase become popular as a meme and was mostly used in jest to describe extreme lash styles that stood out dramatically from the face.
Although all this started as a joke, it quickly became the label for a the dense, bold, extra curly and unapologetically long eyelashes. Some people actually embrace the term so well as a symbol of owning your boldness.
But at the same time, there are some who find it slightly indecent. Either way, the slang stuck and since the beauty industry is always so eager to ride a trend wave, they rolled heavily with this one.
What is the Origin Story of Fake Eyelashes?
The most fascinating thing is that the history of false eyelashes goes way back to the early 1900s. The first patented version of lashes appeared in 1911, when Canadian inventor Anna Taylor used fine human hair attached to a strip of fabric to enhance lash volume.
But artificial eyelashes really took off in 1916 when filmmaker and director D.W Griffith wanted actress Seena Owen to have lashes that ‘brushed her cheeks’ in the film Intolerance. A wig maker glued lashes to her eye lids using spirit gum marking the very first use of eyelash extensions on screen.
There’s an urban myth that fake eyelashes were invented in 1882 by a prostitute to help catch semen. As popular as that might be, it’s just that, a myth. There has been no historical evidence supporting that claim but it’s a sensational story that occasionally resurfaces online.
The truth is that false lashes have always meant to be used to enhance allure, femininity and eye expression. And they have even evolved from only being used in film sets to being part of our everyday make up looks.
What do Fake Eyelashes Symbolize?
For many decades, fake lashes have been very symbolic. But that tends to shift all the time depending on the century and cultural lens. In the early days, they were signs of glamor and Hollywood beauty. Later in the 1960s, they became an emblem of Mod fashion and individual expression.
By the 2000s, dramatic lashes had started being used in everyday makeup routine. They were also embraced in drag culture, music videos as well as bridal looks. Today, lashes and especially the exaggerated ones like Cumbrella eyelashes can symbolize boldness, confidence and hyper femininity. They allow wearers to flirt with their appearance or simply elevate their beauty.
In some other instances, they have been used to signal rebellion against controversial beauty standards. They’ve also become a symbol of internet culture where irony, exaggeration and meme worthy aesthetics rule the game.
Why Cumbrella Lashes are Taking Over
Cumbrellas came about with the rise of Gen Z’s beauty philosophy; go big or go home. Although it might seem like minimalism and clean girl aesthetics are taking over the internet right now, the pendulum has also swung toward maximalism. They want everything bigger and bolder and that’s including lashes that scream, ‘look at me’.
And true to that, some of our favorite celebrities like Cardi B and Megan Thee Stallion have been spotted rocking such outrageous lashes both on stage and online. Also, drag performers and TikTok creators have a pretty good job showcasing how false lashes can be expressive and empowering.
Cumbrella lashes feel rebellious, fun and dramatic in the best way. They break the mold of subtlety and encourage bold self-expression. And because the term itself carries a bit of internet lore, there’s a layer of ‘if you know, you know’ humor to this glam look.
How to Apply Cumbrella Eyelashes Like a Pro
Cumbrellas aren’t the type of lashes you just throw on while running out the door, they’ve got presence, so they need a bit of finesse. But don’t stress, once you get the hang of it, they’re pretty easy to install.
So, here’s a simple guide;
Step 1: Do some prep work on your eyes
Before you even touch the glue, clean your eyelids. And get any leftover moisturizer and makeup off your eyes. Don’t skip this step because this is what will make your natural lashes blend better with the falsies.
Step 2: Measure the lashes then trim the excess
Hold the strip up to your lash line. If it’s hanging off the edge of your eye, snip a bit off the outer corner. Lashes that are too long will bug you all day.
Step 3: Apply the lash glue
Use a very thin and even layer of lash glue along the band. Make sure you add a bit more glue on the ends since they’re most likely to lift during the day. Wait for 30-40 seconds until the glue is tacky so that the lashes don’t slip and slide all over the place.
Step 4: Apply your lash then press it down
Position the lash strips above your natural eye lashes. Use tweezers or a lash applicator an ensure you place them as close as possible to your lash line. But be careful not to stick them on your actual lashes. Place the center first then the inner and outer corners into place. Once the lash is on, use your fingers or your tweezers to gently press them.
Pro Tip: Always look downward into a mirror instead of straight ahead. This gives you a better angle and makes placement way easier.
Step 5: Blend and adjust if necessary
Once you secure your Cumbrella eyelashes, give them a little pinch. That blends them well with your natural lashes. Fix the gaps and visible glue by smoothening them out with a bit of eyeliner.
Pro Tip: You can use an eyelash curler once the glue is totally dry to give the falsies more lift. That helps open up your eyes even more.
Care Tips to Keep Cumbrella Eyelashes Looking Flawless
Now, I’ll give you a few neat tips and tricks to help take proper care of your eyelashes.
- Always clean off glue and mascara from your lashes using micellar water or lash cleaner
- Place back the lashes in their original tray to maintain their shape
- If possible, avoid applying mascara that often. It extends their life.
- Only use tweezers to remove them. Using fingers can damage the falsies as well as your natural lashes.
With good care, quality Cumbrella lashes should last up to 20-25 wears.
Who Should Try Cumbrella Eyelashes?
Cumbrellas are made for the bold and beautiful. So, if you love theatrical glam, are heading to concert, festival, photo shoot, night out or just want your lashes to do all the talking, Cumbrellas are for you. They flatter round and almond eyes best. But with the right trimming and placement, anyone can wear them.
Where to Buy Authentic Cumbrella Eyelashes?
If you don’t want to take your chances, always get your Cumbrella eyelashes from trusted beauty retailers or the official site, if your client has one. You can also find Cumbrella lashes on platforms like:
- Amazon (always check the reviews)
- TikTok Shop (plenty of good vendors)
- Beauty Supply Stores like Ulta or online botiques
Frequently Asked Questions on Cumbrella Eyelashes (FAQs)
Q1. What are Cumbrella Eyelashes made of?
Most Cumbrella eyelashes are made of synthetic silk, faux mink or human hair fibers. But mostly that depends on the brand.
Q2. Can I reuse them?
Yes. In fact, with proper care, you can reuse your Cumbrella eyelashes up to 20 or more times.
Q3. Are Cumbrella eyelashes safe for sensitive eyes?
If your eyes are super sensitive, always get lashes that are hypoallergenic and choose latex free glue.
Q4. Do they feel heavy?
Some styles are lightweight despite the volume, but they might take some getting used to if you’ve only worn natural lashes before.
Q5. Are Cumbrella eyelashes for everyday wear?
Cumbrellas are more suited for glam days or nights out, but you do you- confidence is key.
Q6. How do I remove them without damage?
Use a cotton swab dipped in oil free remover along the lash line then gently peel off.
Q7. Who came up with the term Cumbrella?
It originated as internet slang on TikTok and Instagram, not from a beauty brand or inventor.
Q8. Are Cumbrella eyelashes inappropriate?
Not inherently. The name may be suggestive, but the lashes themselves are just a beauty trend. It all comes down to personal comfort.
Conclusion
As we’ve seen from this blog, Cumbrella Eyelashes are more than just a beauty accessory. They’re a full-on cultural moment. What started as viral internet slang is now in makeup bags everywhere. This represents a major shift in how we see and wear bold beauty.
Because of these falsies, we’ve opened up a new form of self-expression where people can be unapologetically bold, playful and with a hint of mischief. And the best part is that they are wearable to red carpet events, they can be used to give your everyday look some edge or just to enjoy the fund of this trend.
In deed this trend has had such a massive impact on today’s lash culture. So, if you’re curious, daring or just ready for something different, slip on a pair of Cumbrellas and see how you command every room you walk into.
