Kristi Noem's Cartoonish Fake Eyelashes Aren't Doing Her Beauty Looks Any Favors

As the United States Secretary of Homeland Security, Kristi Noem is often in front of cameras and news crews. Looking put-together and professional is of importance to her, and for Noem, that means perfectly-styled hair, bold makeup, and tailored fashion. And while she isn't one of the worst offenders of the "Republican hair" trend (she's the exception that proves the rule), Noem always wears heavy, full-coverage makeup, something many other MAGA women are known for.

While there's nothing wrong with a full face of glam, we've noticed that Noem's eyelashes have been getting bigger, thicker, and, well ... more overwhelming. And we're not the only ones. Makeup artist and hair expert Amber Renee (@arenee.mua on TikTok and Instagram) of Areneé Lashes & Cosmetics tells us that the Republican's eyelashes could use some improvement. "Kristi Noem's lashes are definitely very bold, and while there's nothing wrong with drama, for a professional setting they can feel a little distracting," Renee tells us exclusively. "I think the biggest issue isn't lashes in general, but the style and application." The expert adds that, while thick eyelashes can work, paying extra attention to the entire look is key. "Overall, bold lashes can absolutely work, but it's all about balance," the makeup artist adds. "When lashes overpower the face, they take away from the message instead of enhancing it. A softer, more refined approach would still give glam energy without being distracting." 

Fake eyelashes are outdated, and noticeable ones like Kristi Noem's are a makeup no-go. Luckily, Amber Renee explains exclusively to Glam that with a couple of tiny tweaks, Noem's look could be more modern without her needing to ditch fake lashes altogether. "A lighter, more tapered lash with a thinner band would elevate the look and feel more polished while still giving definition to the eyes," Renee suggests. "Cutting the lash a little shorter or focusing more length on the outer corner would also make them look intentional instead of overpowering."

The expert adds that changing the rest of Noem's makeup could also make the eyelashes appear less harsh. "Softer eyeshadow tones, less heavy liner, and a more blended lash line would help everything feel cohesive," the makeup artist tells us. "Even tweaking the hair to be a bit sleeker could complete the look and make the lashes feel like part of a full, thought out style instead of the main focal point."

Looking back at photos of Noem from the early to mid-2010s, it's clear that no fake eyelashes (or very subtle ones) are a much better option for her. "If I were recommending lashes, I'd suggest something wispy and lightweight like an airy faux mink style or individual clusters," Renee adds. "They photograph beautifully while still looking professional in real life." We've already seen Kristi Noem's complete transformation from farm life to Fox News, and hopefully we'll see her rock a subtler eye look again in the future.