less is MORE, more or less...

...it's really all about the technique.

My latest bridal trial client brought a friend along for support and to help with direction.  The request was this: "I don't usually wear much makeup.  I want to look like myself.  I don't want to look orange or have it feel heavy."(she had a not-so-great makeup trial experience prior to us meeting, so I think she was a bit worried).  Her friend said, "she is more the natural-type" and pointed to a few photos that had fresh, pretty + clean makeup styles.

This is the look I created...

Before (click on images to enlarge)

After

THE APPLICATION:

1. I started with a light application of MAC face/body foundation with a round fluffy brush.
2. Then I added a bit of MAC Select Cover-Up with a light hand and precision where there was redness, blemishes, and dark circles.
3. For her cheeks I started with a well blended application of Chanel blush (in 80 Tea Rose) on the apples of her cheeks then blended out towards her hairline.
4. Then I lightly added a bit of Laura Mercier translucent powder all over to set the makeup; blending outward.
5. For the eyes I decided not you use any liner - this adds to an extra-clean + fresh look.  I blended MAC paints (in Untitled) from lash line to just above the crease; then added Lorac eye shadow (in Pewter) and blended to give a little dimension.  I continued this color softly 2/3 of the way under the eye, towards the center.
6. Curled the lashes with my Shu Emura eyelash curler.  Applied a coat of MAC Zoom in black on the lashes; concentrating mostly on the base of the lashes - then a quick release on the ends (this technique gives a more natural look).  Using a brush instead of the mascara wand, I then lightly brush the bottom lashes (this helps avoid clumping, mistakes and looks more natural).
7. Added some more color to the apples of the cheeks; first with Bobbi Brown blush (in Apricot 6) - then Stila convertible color (in gerbera 14).  Blend, blend, blend for the perfect flushed, glowing cheeks.
8. I added some shimmer to her cheek bones, chin, tip of her nose and inner/under eye area, ever so slightly, with MAC Silver Dusk.
9. For her lips - I first hydrated her dry lips with Burts Bees Lip Balm when she arrived.  (I cannot live without this stuff) Then I applied MAC lip pencil (in Whirl) with the tip soft and rounded, filling in the lips softly, except for the center bottom lip area.  Then I tapped-on some of the same Stila dual lip/cheek cream (in Gerbera 14) to the center of her bottom lip(which is lighter in value).  Lastly I gently tapped-on some MAC clear gloss.  This technique helps create a plump lip with added dimension.
10. I brushed her eyebrows up with MAC Brow Set Gel.  Then with a brush and some shadow I filled them in subtly; adding length where they needed it.
11. We thought  the look of  the full length false lashes was too much, so I went with individual false lashes instead.  This opened her eye and added a fresh, wispy feel.

THE RESULTS?  One happy, gorgeous glowing girl.  :)

P.S. Her friend was very happy too!  She said, (while holding-up her arm) LOOK - I have chills!