By Sedef Kokcuoglu

The transformation that can be achieved with a dab of foundation, a sweep of mascara and a light application of blush never ceases to amaze me. In day a and age when dramatic aesthetic improvements can be pulled off painlessly, the fact that women still take to the streets with ghastly complexions, bluish-purple under eyes and chapped lifeless lips leaves me in a state of complete bewilderment. Today the little tubes, sticks and pots of cosmetic products available everywhere from spas to department stores offer women beauty, self-assurance, and morale all bottled into one. Makeup is a way for women to seize control, exercise individuality and simply have some fun. However, despite the promise of flawlessly good looks ladies often get discouraged, for they don’t know where to begin. In that case looking to the runway for innovative ideas and inspiration is the best thing to do. After all as François Nars proclaims, “Observation is the key to learning how to apply makeup.” Here is an account of what I saw on the Los Angles catwalks, sprinkled with makeup gurus’ tips on how to emulate them, so as Gwen Stefani says, “What you waiting for?” Grab the grab kohl liner and start experimenting.

After watching experts apply runway faces, it is hard not to feel discouraged and intimidated. Emulating smoky cat-eyes, pouty, sumptuous lips, and Angelina Jolie-esque contours may seem like an insurmountable obstacle. In that case, it is a safe bet to take makeup ace Gregory Arlt’s advice: “Take one element you like from the look, may it be the lips or the eyes and stick to that.” However before revealing more insider secrets it is best to outline foolproof basic makeup tips for picturesque results.

1-Always prep your face with a primer before applying makeup. Primer soothes the skin and reduces redness.

2-Do not use too much foundation. Choose a shade that matches your natural skin color. Never apply foundation on your neck. Blend, blend, blend, and blend some more with fingertips. Your body heat will help attain a natural finish.

3-Apply powder to set the foundation. Use a puff for long lasting results.

4-For a natural look use only concealer, followed by an application of loose powder.

5-When applying concealer on large areas, choose a wide flat brush. When applying concealer on blemishes, pick a point brush for precision.

6-When working on your eyes, start off with a small amount of shadow and build gradually.

7-Never forget to brush your eyebrows. Resist the urge to over-pluck. There is nothing less attractive than two thin arches perched over the eyes.

8-Before applying dark lip color, moisturize lips with a rich balm. Then take a clean tooth brush and brush off the dead skin using circular strokes.

9-To ensure your lipstick stays put, blot with a tissue and reapply.

10-If you make a mistake, do not panic. Makeup comes off after all.

Once you have the basics down, proceed to have a little fun. Spring 2005 is all about unapologetic flamboyance, polished glamour, and sizzling sex appeal. This is the time to channel sex icons like Sophia Lauren, Raquel Welch, and Brigitte Bardot. Makeup professional Sharon Gault, who conceived the Bardot look for the Frankie B. show proclaims that, “one need not apply too much foundation” to get sexy vixen effects. Gault instructs, ‘Just cover some minor imperfections with concealer. Then focus on the eyes and the lips. Use thick black liquid eyeliner and several layers of mascara. Finally, paint on beige apricot lips. The key to making lips look deliciously kissable is to apply some peachy gloss over the color.”

However, if you prefer a nude look emulate the Custo Barcelona look. Cast aside bronzers in favor of creamy blushes and dab on gloss instead of applying color. For Iron’s fresh angelic mugs opt for shimmering pastels and glittery peach tones. In order to realize dramatic results with a rock and roll flare ala Heike Jarick line your lash line, as well as the inside of your eyes, with a creamy black pencil. Otherwise, to keep things innocent and pure like KateO’Connor allow a little natural shine. The possibilities are endless. Just follow your natural fashion instincts.