A Woman's Touch
Makeup Lesson #2
The Eyes Have It
By Jean Wendy Farrell
There is a lot of truth to that old adage, "The eyes are the mirror to the soul." And if your soul is that of a woman, you want to bring that out in your makeup.
It is important to choose eyeshadow shades that are complimentary both to your complexion and hair, as well as the outfit you are wearing. If you decide on light colored clothing like pastels for your evening out, you should stick to lighter, less heavy shades such as pale lavender or earth tones. Conversely, if you select darker colored clothing from your wardrobe like black or navy blue, don't choose beige or earth tones as your face will have a tendency to have a "washed out" look.
Generally, I start with a loose powder shadow (rather than a pressed powder) which can be purchased at the better drug stores or specialty shops. The loose powder will be used to cover the eye area consisting of the crease (hollow) just above the eyelid and extending into the browline. This sahde should be slightly lighter than the complimentary creme shadow I recommend for the actual eye lid itself. The creme shadow will be used to cover the area of the eyelid only.
The next step, and this is a very important one, is the use of eye pencils. Generally, I use two --one that is black and one that is a coordinating color with the shadow. Be sure to pick a pencil that has a soft tip. A hard tip can be damaging to the skin around the eye area.
Shade in the hollow area above the lid and blend with your fingertips. Follow the natural line of your eye, but extend the shadow out slightly past your eyelid. This gives the illusion of a larger eye and creates a more glamorous look.
Do the same for the bottom of your eye, under the lower lashes draw a line with the coordinating pencil as if you were putting on eyeliner. Extend this line slightly outward and gently blend in with your fingertips. You will be amazed at how this shading tends to make your eyes look more feminine.
The next to last step is the black liner pencil. Use as you would normally, lining the lid at the lash line and under the bottom lashes as well. Again extend the lines slightly outward for a more attractive effect.
The last thing is that ever useful tool, the mascara brush. Try to choose a thick, waterproof mascara. Brush up and out several times on both the upper and lower lashes. One helpful hint for all those girls who tend to get smears when applying the mascara - look up when applying, especially with the lower lashes. It makes them stick out and the mascara is easier to apply. It also helps prevent the clumping and smearing.
Now go look in the mirror and knock 'em dead!
Wendy is a professionally trained makeup artist. She runs a transformation service in Brooklyn, New York. Feel free to contact her with your questions. She can be reached at WomansTouc@aol.com
|