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.
HOW TO GET THE LOUIS VERDAD LOOK
MAC Cosmetics Senior Makeup Artist John Stapleton keyed the show for MAC. He
used MAC products exclusively, including the new Moisture Blend Foundations.
John applied Ceylon Mineralize Powder on the cheeks. Gold Deposit brushed
on the cheekbones for highlight. The brows were made strong with Brun eye
shadow. The eyelid was covered with a combination of Mulch, Gold Deposit,
and Embark shadows. Brown #7 lashes were worked in reverse to round
out the eye, and ZoomBlack mascara was brushed into the roots. Lips were
a mix of Fancy That Lipglass and Petting Pink Tinted Lip Conditioner.