Foundation:
The first thing you need is a great foundation. Most people shop for makeup while wearing makeup, and that is the last thing you want to do. Your best bet is to head to the store fresh-faced. Once you are there, you are going to want to test at least three shades on your jawline or cheek. Once you've got the shade out, grab a mirror and head to the spot with the most natural light. Don't be afraid to leave the department store to get the right lighting. The shade best for you will blend into your skin. Once you get home, try out the shade again. If you don't like it don't be afraid to return it. Almost every drugstore and department store has a liberal return policy when it comes to makeup.
Face:
Start with a mineral-based primer. It will help your foundation go on smoothly and last longer.
Since most discoloration is found in the center of the face, you want to focus your attention there. Swipe your forehead, area around your nose, and chin. Use your fingers or makeup sponge to blend the color evenly.
If you're like me and have dark circles under your eyes, grab your concealer and blend under your eyes. Keep in mind that your concealer should only be one shade lighter than your foundation.
Now that you've got a great base, grab a bronzer with a little bit of shimmer and sweep it over your nose, forehead and cheeks. If you are showing your neck and chest, add a little there for an even look. Set your face with a light powder.
Cheeks:
Find something sheer with a hint of color. Pop a big smile, kiss the apples of your cheeks, and sweep up towards your hairline.
Eyes:
Grab a champagne shade, and apply gently to the entire eyelid. Add a deeper shade to the outer corner, and blend into the crease. If you really want your eyes to pop, opt for a highlighter under the brow bone.
Use an ultra-fine liner, draw a thin line along your top lash line, and extend up and out. The farther out you go, the more dramatic the look. If you've got shaky hands, try doing this at a table, where you can steady yourself and rest your elbows. Once you get the wing out, use tiny strokes to work your liner back toward your eye. The closer you get to your inner eye, the thinner the line should be. If you miss a spot, don't worry, you can go back and fill it in. Beware that this takes a little practice, so you might want to try this a few times before your big night out. For 9 to 5, just go with a thin line across the lash line, and smudge with a q-tip for a softer look.
Curl your lashes and add at least two coats of lengthening black mascara. Don't be afraid to add a coat to your bottom lashes as well. If you want to add a little more wow, add trimmed faux lashes.
Lips:
Adele usually sticks to a nude lip or something with a hint of peach, but if you are looking for a pop of color, try a pink or red lipstick. Pink is playful, fun, and will make your smile a little brighter. If you've got pale skin, go for something in a true pink with no hints of blue, or try something with a coral base that will warm up your skin tone. For those of you with olive skin, go for a darker pink with a ruby or cranberry base. Darker complexions are flattered by a pink with a touch of red and purple. Classic Red is sexy, elegant, and if blue-based, it will make your teeth look whiter. If you have pale skin, you will want a pinker shade of red. Olive skin tones should work with a ruby red, or one with a hint of a cranberry hue, while darker complexions are flattered by deep, almost purple red.
Nails:
Grab a pair of glue-on nails. Flip the nails, and paint the tips with two coats of red polish. Once dry, follow the instructions on the box and apply a set of glue-on nails to freshly manicured, polish free nails. Grab nail scissors and snip the ends at an angle. File each nail to smooth down the edges. Once the nails have set, paint them any shade you see fit.
Like I said before, this classic look, aka The Adele, is wonderful because it is just basic enough that your skill level can be low, not a lot of equipment is needed, and it has plenty of room for you to add your very own "wow factor."
The one thing you never have to worry about is your look going out of style.
This post is part of BlogHer's Celebrity Beauty Trends editorial series, made possible by Olay.
