Makeup for Formal Events
If you’ve got a formal event coming up, you may be considering trying something different with your makeup. Makeup for formal events differs from what you’d wear every day in that there’s generally a little more drama added to either the eye or the mouth, but not both. In addition, if there are going to be lots of photographs being taken, you’ll want to be sure that the cosmetics you apply will look great both in person and on film. Here are a few tips and tricks to ensure you look your best at your next special occasion.
Base
If you expect to be photographed, steer clear of foundations and powders that contain SPF, mica, or other highly reflective materials as the shine they create reads more like oiliness on film. Use a light foundation that matches your skin tone exactly, blend well at the hairline and neck, then use a concealer to even out any imperfections. Finish with a translucent powder. If your skin tends towards oily, try a mattefying powder on the T-zone. Apply a pink or peach blush on the apples of cheeks and blend back into your hairline. Blush prevents you from looking washed out, especially in photos. Use a pencil, gel, or powder to define your eyebrows.
Eyes
If you’ve chosen to highlight your eyes, you’ll want to go softer on the lips. Start with a neutral shade all over the eyelid, then add a medium shade at the crease. Line eye with a darker shade and blend well. For additional drama, add a bit of the dark color at outer corner and a pale, shimmery color at the tear duct and beneath the brow bone. Use a pencil to line inside of both lids, then follow with a lash primer and a few coats of mascara. Finish with a lipstick one shade darker than your lip color.
Lips
If you’ve chosen to highlight lips, take it easy on the eyes. Apply a light, neutral shade across entire lid, then use a medium shade at crease and to line top and bottom lids. Apply a lash primer and a few light coats of mascara. Line your lips and top with a coat of vibrant lipstick.
