So many clients and friends are seemingly stuck with the same makeup coloring they’ve used since college. Even worse, high school. Afraid to experiment or just complacent it doesn’t matter. What does matter is the reaction I get when I tell them. “I just don’t know what’s a good product for me” or “I don’t know what looks good on me” or my favorite “I have no choice because of my skin and hair”. What?! Hello girls there are thousands of choices out there and it’s easier than you think to narrow it down.
It’s all about color and what works best with your not-so-unique combination of skin tone and hair. Cosmetic companies have palettes of colors suited for any and all skin tones and hair combos. They’ve spent countless years and dollars developing these so why not take advantage of their work? Haven’t you ever walked through a department store or up to a makeup counter at a boutique and glanced at the sea of eyeshadow pods sitting there waiting to be handled? That’s why they are there. Hold them up to your face. Rub some on your hand and eyes. Don’t be afraid to try different shades in the store before you buy. How about a friends collection of makeup? Not that I advocate sharing certain items but just between us girls my sister’s favorite hobby is losing herself in my collection when she visits. Funny, I always have room for more when she leaves.
Before you set out, you do have to know what works best for you. So how do you do that? Well experimentation is key but even holding a powder or pod up to your face can help. Look at the makeup itself and see if your eye catches the same coloring or tones as in your hair or eyes or skin. If so that’s generally a complimenting color you can try. Your taste dictates your preferred level of striking-ness by how much contrast there is between the makeup color and your own colors.
Warmer hues like brick reds and oranges, even corals tend to work best on brunettes with darker coloring. Cool pastels like blues and purples work for blondes. Redheads love the greens and easily get away with them without being to funky. Glitters and gold or silver metallics can work for everyone as long as it’s in moderation.
Don’t be afraid to try some new colors and brands. Go bold, go light just don’t go it alone if you’re unsure. Those glam gals and guys behind the counters (or me if you want to do it via email) are well trained and have knowledge about color, applying it and knowing when to stop. Ask! They won’t bite and if they do, well there’s always another counter to spend your cash at. Believe me.