Runway make up is the art of spellbinding transformation. This season LA’s brilliant masters of theatrical illusion merged boundless imagination, operatic colors and a Fellini-esque sensuality into picture-perfect visages. The imaginary heroines dreamed up by these visionaries vowed the dynamic audiences filling Culver City Studios up to capacity. Backstage maquillaje virtuosos reinvented gorgeous models’ faces to compliment each outfit; proving once again that expert brush strokes have the power to realize fantasy.

Some of the most exciting Spring looks were seen on the Smashbox catwalk. Animated by the mantra, “More is more”, Max Factor’s heirs created their smoldering enchantresses in the image of vanity birds complete with fluttering feather eyelashes. Emulating a similar look at home is indeed a tricky task, only the very artistically inclined and gifted should attempt. Nevertheless, fashion favors the bold and for those feeling especially adventurous here are some tips for achieving a mythical siren look right out of a Tolkien novel.

• To avoid streaking use a primer to prep the skin.
• Cover all impurities with concealer; blending well with the fingertips.
• Apply corrective matte foundation all over the face with a synthetic sponge.
• Apply translucent pressed powder with the help of a puff to set the foundation.
• Apply a creamy mocha eye tint all over the lid, from lashes to the brow.
• Sweep black eye shadow across the bottom half of the lid from the corner and outward. Blend the dark color following the natural curve of the bone, past the length of the eye. With light sweeps of the brush move the outer edges up and towards the brow. Remember to start with a small amount of pigment and build gradually.
• Using a flat brush dipped in the black shadow, define the outer corners of the eyes. Then, using a q-tip slightly smudge the lines.
• Apply Swarovski crystals around the eyes in circular shapes.
• Glue mink lashes to upper and lower lashes.
• Fill in the brows with a pencil to give them a structured look.
• Dust the bridge of the nose, cheekbones and temples with shimmering golden dust.
• Apply a lick of lip gloss over the lips.

The elaborate Carnivale face is not the only option available to makeup aficionados. Fashionlines’ runway favorite for the new season is the retro look seen on the Louis Verdad runway. Romantic and charming the core, 50s inspired vermillion lips and Maria Callas eyes are bound to turn heads this Spring.

• Using a brush or a damp synthetic sponge apply a sheer layer of foundation over the face.
• Dab concealer on imperfections and blemishes.
• Cover dark under eyes with a light weight cover-up; blending with the fingertips.
• Powder the face with loose translucent powder.
• Using an eye shader brush apply a golden brown shadow from the lashes to brow. Then, using a flat dipped in the same tint brush line lower outer corners. Make sure to meet the color on the lid. 
• Follow the line of the lashes with a black liquid liner, keeping as close to the lid as possible, and flicking up to create a feline look at the outer edges.
• Finish the eyes with deep black mascara on top and bottom lashes.
• With the side of the blush brush, sweep a deep peach colored blush over the cheekbones; drawing the color out towards the hairline.
• To give the lips a juicy look, define the mouth with liner and top with a red lipstick. Finally, apply lip gloss to the pout for extra shine.

Finally, if you prefer dewy innocence, try Bradley Bayou’s nude look. Cast aside bronzers in favor of creamy blushes and dab on a peachy gloss instead of applying lip color. For Pegah Anvarian’s angelic mugs, choose shimmering pastels and glittery peach tones. In order to emulate dramatic results with a rock and roll flare a lá Sheri Bodell, line your lash line, as well as the inside of your eyes, with a creamy black pencil. Otherwise, to keep things innocent and pure in true Desenka fashionallow a little shine. Ultimately, the possibilities are endless. When applying makeup, just follow your natural fashion instincts. 

It is impossible to divorce the world of moda from makeup. The essence that a designer wants to capture on the runway is incomplete without the right facade. Just like fabric, cut and construction define the female silhouette, coloring, contouring and lining frame the face. Makeup can be applied so that the light dances upon the visage, giving verve to the master piece that is feminine beauty. Without rouge, blush and mascara the face is a blank canvas yearning to be transformed, much like a bud waiting to open.  So this spring help your beauty blossom in true Los Angeles style.