Easy Special Occasion Makeup Tutorial

Considering we are in the midst of wedding season, I thought I would share a relatively simple makeup tutorial.  This look is perfect for any special occasion and should not take a long time to replicate.  You can easily change the look with different eyeshadow, eyeliner, and lipstick combinations.  The key is to look put together, fresh and pretty, but take it up a notch by adding some false lashes to the mix.   If you are scared or do not like the idea of applying false lashes, you can skip that step- do not fret!

Below you will see a photo of the finished look, which is a pretty typical style for my brides and bridesmaids.

This is the final look- the look we are aiming for! Defined eyes, natural but defined brows and even, natural-looking skin.  

Step 1: Moisturize your face and under eye area based on your skin type/concerns.  For most of clients, I normally use Embryolisse Lait-Creme Concentre ($16), which moisturizes and primes in one step. 

Step 2: Prime skin if necessary.  Apply primer to eyelids and under eye area as needed.  Apply lip balm to moisturize lips.  

While your moisturizer and lip balm is absorbing, you will start your eyeshadow application*.  For the look in the photo, I used a combination of different grays and taupes from Inglot Cosmetics and Smashbox Full Exposure palette ($49).  I recommend either using a gray or brown/taupe/bronze color palette because it is generally the most flattering, and because they are neutrals, you have a little more leeway with the rest of your makeup.  Also, try to use eyeshadows that are not too shimmery or sparkly.

Step 3:  Apply your base eyeshadow color all the way across your eyelids, from lash line to crease.  Next, apply a lighter shadow on the inner corners of the eyes.  Lastly, take the deepest shadow and a blending blush to lightly define your outer corners and crease of your eye (outer "v" area).  I typically also take a small pencil brush and apply the medium or deep shade along the lower lash line to add definition, but it is up to you.

Step 4:  Apply black eyeliner pencil in a very fine line all the way across your upper lash lines.  If you prefer to add a wing/cat eye, wait until Step 7.  I really like MAC Powerpoint Eye Pencil in Engraved ($16) because it is waterproof and is easy to apply.  If you prefer, you can also add liner to the waterline, lower lash line, etc.  

Step 5: Curl your lashes and apply your favorite mascara (mine is Loreal Voluminous Waterproof formula $7.99) to upper and lower lashes. Continue to step 6 if you would like to try false eyelashes.  Otherwise, skip to step 7.  

Step 6:  Using a good quality set of false lashes, hold up to your eyelid to ensure the width of the lashes is not too wide or long for your eyes.  If necessary, trim a tiny bit off of each of the lash bands; this is extremely important for the lashes to look natural and feel comfortable while wearing them.  Using a pointed cotton swab, apply a good clear lash glue (I love DUO, $9) to the band of the lashes.  Wait about 30 seconds for the glue to get tacky (makes it easier to apply).  I prefer to use tweezers to place the false lashes onto the base of my eyelid and push into place.  This also allows you to secure the middle of the lashes first, then each corner.  This is MUCH easier than any other way I have tried previously.  A good video tutorial can be found here.  

Step 7:  After allowing the glue to dry, use a gel eyeliner and a small brush to cover the band of the lashes.  You can also create any eyeliner shape you prefer.  I love MAC Fluidline ($16).  

Step 8:  Clean up under eye area from any eyeshadow fall out*.  This is why we did eye makeup prior to complexion makeup!  Apply for favorite under eye concealer.  Lately I have been using Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Concealer ($8.99) applied with a blending brush.  Set with a little powder or setting spray.  Make sure you blend well and go all the way up to the lower lash line.  If you applied lower lash eyeliner, you can always go back with your eyeliner and touch up as needed after concealing.  

Step 9:  Apply your favorite liquid or cream foundation using a damp sponge.  You know I love the Beauty Blender!  Make sure the foundation is blended well, especially around your jawline, neck and ears.  For my clients, I usually use Face Atelier Ultra foundation ($34).

Step 10:  Swipe on a light layer of bronzer around the hairline, temples, underneath the cheekbones, and on the jawline.  Next, apply your favorite highlighting product on the cheekbones.  Lately I have been using Nars Bronzing Powder in Laguna ($38) to bronze and MAC Mineralize Skinfinish in Soft and Gentle ($32) or RMS Living Luminizer ($38) to highlight.  

Step 11:  Apply a cream blush with a stippling brush (or the fat end of the Beauty Blender) onto the apples of the cheeks.  You can also layer this with a powder blush for extra staying power.

Step 12:  Fill your brows as needed and set with a wax or brow gel.

Step 13:  Apply lip liner (if preferred/necessary) and a long wear lipstick.  I tend to use rose or muted pinks since they look good on most folks and don't look as washed out in photographs (like say, a nude color, would).  I recommend Rimmel Lasting Lipsticks ($6) because they are inexpensive and really last.  

Step 14:  Apply powder and/or a makeup setting spray all over the face.  Right now, I like Skindinavia Makeup Finishing Spray (Bridal formula, $29). 

Whew! Done and done:)