I personally like mixing up the brands I use – to me, it makes sense to spend a little more on certain products (like foundation & concealer) and go with more affordable options for items like lipstick & gloss. That’s why I love shopping the beauty department at Nordstrom – because they carry so many different brands, I can try a wide range of products, mix both high & low and find what works best for me. Plus, their customer satisfaction policy is second to none so I know if I have a problem or need to return something for any reason, they will be accommodating.
I purposely chose colors here that would work well on any skintone (dark plum, icy lavender & soft mauve) + you can easily adjust the intensity of the eyeshadow & eyeliner if you want a more dramatic look. Here are the steps to recreate:
Start with a good base. Primer is crucial to creating an even finish & helping your makeup go on more smoothly. Apply a pea sized amount all over your skin & let set for about a minute. Then apply your foundation, concealer & finish with a light dusting of loose powder to lock it all in place. I finally tried this foundation after having so many people recommend it to me. It’s more of a full-coverage makeup than what I was previously using and it stays put, which is perfect for an evening out.
Step 1: Apply the middle color in the eyeshadow trio from lashline to crease.
Step 2: Using the darkest color of eyeshadow trio, apply in small strokes to the outer half of the crease of your eyelid (in the shape of a side triangle). Remember to start with a small application & add more as needed.
Step 3: Apply the lightest color in the eyeshadow trio from your browbone down to the crease, blending the two colors together well.
Step 4: Apply eyeliner along your upper & lower lash lines, pressing in between lashes to create depth. I like to drag it slightly past the outer edge of my eye & smudge it a little with my finger so the line is diffused and softer looking.
Step 5: Curl your lashes and apply a generous coat of black mascara (I love the small thin brush of this one because it’s great for getting all those little corner lashes completely coated).
Step 6: Lightly apply the blush just to the apples of your cheeks, sweeping up towards the cheekbones. Don’t be intimidated by the color of this blush – it actually goes on quite sheer and gives the prettiest natural-looking flush to your cheeks. If you want to take the time to also add highlighter, follow these steps.
Step 7: Apply lip primer around the edges of your lips – this will help keep the color from bleeding or feathering. Next apply your lip liner and the lip color. Then take the lip gloss & dab a small amount just in the center of your bottom lip and on the cupid’s bow. This is one of my favorite tricks for creating more dimension & making the lips appear fuller.
Smashbox Photo Finish Primer
Estée Lauder Double Wear Foundation (Desert Beige)
Smashbox High Definition Concealer (Fair/Light)
Estée Lauder Perfecting Loose Powder (Light)
NARS Blush (Gaiety) EYES
Stila Eyeshadow Trio (Venus)
MAC Eye Kohl (Prunella)
MAC Extended Play Gigablack Mascara
LIPS
Trish McEvoy Flawless Lip Primer
NYX Slim Lip Liner (Nude Pink)
NYX Jumbo Lip Pencil (Soft Fuschia)
MAC Tinted Lip Glass (Oyster Girl)