Time to dust off the make-up pots, palettes and primers and bring your beauty A-game again.
After a long stint in hibernation, what better time to celebrate and get glammed up for a night out? Take your look to the next level and complement your outfit with strong, elegantly edgy make-up – we’re channelling a sultry ’90s supermodel look here, but served with a fresh, modern twist. If you feel a little out of practice, fear not. Creamy multi-purpose products are easy to use and create a gorgeous effect that just says “dancing all night long”.
All about that base
Priming your skin creates a flawless base and ensures your makeup goes the distance. Don’t have a primer? Just make sure your skin is thoroughly moisturised before you start, as this creates the perfect plumped canvas. We’ve gone for a classic look here, which is somewhere bang in the middle of matte and dewy. If you’ve been putting in some serious skincare groundwork during lockdown, and feel confident about your complexion, just apply concealer where you need it and buff it in with a small fluffy or stippling brush.
If you prefer more coverage, apply your favourite foundation over the top and be sure to blend it thoroughly. Clinique’s Even Better Clinical Serum Foundation SPF 20, $76, doesn’t just cover, it’s an extension of your skincare regime and works to correct, hydrate and smooth with every wear. Set your base with a light dusting of translucent setting powder, focusing on your T-zone if you’re prone to shine.
Get cheeky
Aleph Cheek/Lip Tint in Grounded, $58, is the perfect modern shade. Using your finger, swirl it on the back of your hand first to warm it up, as this ensures it blends well on your face. Tap it gently onto your cheeks and in an upwards motion towards your temples for a sculpted evening look. A swirl on your cheeks is a better for daytime. Blend lightly with a stippling brush and bring it delicately over to your temples to balance your make-up.
Just browsing
Start by brushing your brows into place and applying a setting gel, such as Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Freeze, $41, if they need some serious taming. Give this a good time to set before applying any colour. Aleph’s new Hybrid Eye Pigment in Incense, $56, is the perfect dark shade for creating intensity and is gorgeous for night-time, thanks to its subtle metallic finish. Use a brush to define your shape.
The eyes have it
This look is all about the eyes, with its bold, graphic wing and cool-toned colours. Start by using eyeshadow instead of pencil to map out your shape – shadow can be easily buffed away afterwards. Create a sparkling pop of colour all over the lid with Aleph Hybrid Eye Pigment in Glint, which is a flattering, antiquey gold hue. Use the Incense Hybrid Pigment as a liner along the upper and lower lash lines, using a brush to create a smudged, diffused effect. Remember, it doesn’t need to be perfect! Finish with two coats of mascara. Tubing formulations are a great option as they do not smudge or clump and are easy to remove at the end of the day. Try Essence Bye Bye Panda Eyes!, $7.90.
Lip service
Use a deep rosy nude liner for your lips. Remember, it’s just a ’90s nod, not a full Pam Anderson tribute, so soften it with a lip brush if it’s too strong. Use the same Aleph Cheek/Lip Tint to fill in the centre of your lips.
