Because I firmly believe that as women we should help each other out & share our beauty secrets, I want to talk about how to avoid common beauty mistakes + a few key techniques that make a big difference. I’ve already done several posts about my own personal makeup preferences, but I thought these might be helpful hints & reminders for us all:
Good lighting
I’ve never done my makeup in the bathroom of any of the 5 houses we’ve lived in. Natural light is 100 times better than even the brightest light fixture, especially bathrooms…which are usually a small enclosed space. Buy yourself a pedestal mirror and set up camp in front of a window facing outdoors. You will apply less & look more natural!
I’ve never done my makeup in the bathroom of any of the 5 houses we’ve lived in. Natural light is 100 times better than even the brightest light fixture, especially bathrooms…which are usually a small enclosed space. Buy yourself a pedestal mirror and set up camp in front of a window facing outdoors. You will apply less & look more natural!
A smooth base
Another mom approached me when picking up my son from school the other day to ask me what makeup I used. When I told her, she was shocked because it was the same brand as hers. The difference we discovered? I use this primer beforehand, which instantly creates a smoother base, making for a more even application & longer-lasting results.
Another mom approached me when picking up my son from school the other day to ask me what makeup I used. When I told her, she was shocked because it was the same brand as hers. The difference we discovered? I use this primer beforehand, which instantly creates a smoother base, making for a more even application & longer-lasting results.
Lighten up
Every woman I know uses under-eye concealer to help cover up those dreaded dark circles that come with age, heredity and/or lack of sleep. But, far too many of us forget to lighten a very important spot on the inner corner of the eye (towards the bridge of the nose). This dark pocket can make you look even more tired, so remember to hit it with your concealer and maybe even a little highlighter too!
Every woman I know uses under-eye concealer to help cover up those dreaded dark circles that come with age, heredity and/or lack of sleep. But, far too many of us forget to lighten a very important spot on the inner corner of the eye (towards the bridge of the nose). This dark pocket can make you look even more tired, so remember to hit it with your concealer and maybe even a little highlighter too!
Conceal properly
Unfortunately, we all experience the occasional unexpected breakout. When this happens, don’t be tempted to pile on the makeup (which actually draws more attention to your problem area). I like to use a lip brush so I can dab my foundation & concealer just where it’s needed – use small slight strokes (like you’re working on a detailed painting) just until it’s covered & then gently blot with powder to set.
Unfortunately, we all experience the occasional unexpected breakout. When this happens, don’t be tempted to pile on the makeup (which actually draws more attention to your problem area). I like to use a lip brush so I can dab my foundation & concealer just where it’s needed – use small slight strokes (like you’re working on a detailed painting) just until it’s covered & then gently blot with powder to set.
Create definition
Even if you weren’t blessed with high pronounced cheekbones, you can still create the illusion that you were. Once you start using this technique, you will never go back…I promise! It makes such a huge difference and gives your skin a dewy glow (application discussed in detail here). On those days when you’re short on time, don’t skip this step – it only takes seconds & is so worth it!
Even if you weren’t blessed with high pronounced cheekbones, you can still create the illusion that you were. Once you start using this technique, you will never go back…I promise! It makes such a huge difference and gives your skin a dewy glow (application discussed in detail here). On those days when you’re short on time, don’t skip this step – it only takes seconds & is so worth it!
Protect & prolong
I don’t know how I ever lived without this magical product! Also known as “clear lipliner”, it is like a waxy substance that you put on before your lipstick or gloss to keep it from bleeding, feathering & fading. It works like a charm & lasts forever.
I don’t know how I ever lived without this magical product! Also known as “clear lipliner”, it is like a waxy substance that you put on before your lipstick or gloss to keep it from bleeding, feathering & fading. It works like a charm & lasts forever.
Espadrille Season
Full Bloom
Dressy Shorts
And the Winner Is…