Makeup Basics

[ColourMyDreams]

Hi All...first post here

I've always worn makeup but lately feel like I've gotten into a 'makeup rut' of sorts.

I find I'm always doing the same thing, though I do switch up the colours a bit, but the overall technique is usually the same. In all honesty I think it looks good, but I'm thinking there may be better looks out there for me that would make more of my face and features than what I've gotten 'used to doing'.

I do makeup on my g/f's and sisters and I can totally tell what looks good on them, but have a hard time having such an objective eye for myself....

Sooo I was wondering what's a good way to learn besides just experimenting:

Should I learn basics that will suit my face shape/eye shape?
Any books that might help with this, that cover such fundamentals?
Any other recs for me to experiment and learn things that will suit me (I experiment...but feel like I'm doing things that I like on others because I like their features, i.e. big eyes -- which I don't have and so it doesn't suit me really).

Thank you for your help

 

[Wattage]

Hi There

Yes there are many good books out there that can give you fundamental information. Knowing these techniques and tips will always help improve your overall look. I recommend checking out books by Kevin Aucoin. His books get great reviews. I know that NARS has also published a book but I haven't heard as many good reviews about his book as I have about Kevin's.

In terms of suggestions for something new, I recommend doing your makeup as you usually do, taking a photo and posting it in out FOTD forum. This way, members can see what you are doing and make recommendations. We have many enthusiastic members, as well as estheticians, makeup artists of all sorts and just a lot of people who do outstanding makeuep. Futhermore, it is a good way for people to see your colours, that way others who have similar colouring can share their tips and techniques with you.

HTH!

 

[Jaim]

You could also try recreating MAC looks!

 

[ColourMyDreams]

Thank you soooo much - I'll try to take pics and post.

How about makeup lessons at the Mac counters?
And which of Aucoin's books do you rec? I've also heard of a Robert Jones one but haven't looked at it?

 

[d_flawless]

i get inspiration from looking @ FOTD's, buying more stuff, trying new mediums (like fluidline as a base instead of a paint, not that vast of a difference but creates a different appearance). think of things maybe you may neglect: eyebrow shape, contouring, different mascara, lining your lips, blending e/s differently, highlighting features, adding a different texture, a bolder lip, whatever. for me, you can't really determine what suits you by reading a manual; experimentation is more precious. just try out new stuff and you may love the results!

 

[Wattage]

I must say that I completely agree with d_flawless. One of the most important aspects of makeup is understanding the contours of the face and how to work with them, especially your own. Depending on your ethnicity, skin type, bone structure, etc., you will want to adjust your makeup to best suit your features. I also really agree that trying new things and re-examining features such as your brows is a gerat way to beef up your look. I once read an interview with an artist who noted that she liked to pick the best feature on the person and build the entire look around that. So if you like your eyes best, pay the most attention to them, if you like your lips, play them up. Focus on bringing out your best feature.

MAC does offer short seminars, which are great because essentially they are free. You have to pay but the price is redeemable in product so it really costs you just getting some new MAC and hey you were going to do that anyway!

About the books... it's hard to recommend one because I am not familiar with your skill or what you are really looking to achieve. I think you can't go wrong with any of them (Aucoin) in the long run. I suggest stopping by your local bookstore (most large-scale bookstores carry a good selection) and just leafing through, seeing which one appeals to you and your tastes most

 

[ColourMyDreams]

Skill-wise I'm good - just bad at being objective with my own face.

About the MAC makeup seminars...are they different then the lessons that I've read about in other threads??? I was thinking of going to a MAC counter and getting my makeup done, like where you you commit to purchasing X dollars of product - want the skunk brush 187 sooo badly after all the raves that it'll work out just fine by me!!! 8)

However, are the MAC lessons different? There apparently $90, but not sure if they're offered in Canada (I'm in ON) and if yes are they any good? I'm guessing you just pay straight for the service and it doesn't go towards product.

Anywho, thanks for the ton of help all! Much appreciated, maybe I'm just feeling blah and tis the reason for all the fuss...