“Babyface, Babyface

Cover girl with natural grace
How could beauty be so kind”

When I am working with brides on their wedding day, my number one goal is to make them look and feel like their most beautiful, radiant self.  And the first step in achieving that is by creating flawless, yet natural-looking skin.

In the winter months this can become increasingly difficult, as colder temperatures and drier air zaps moisture from our skin.  Even a grease monkey such as myself can find dry patches where once there were none!

There are some simple tips that we can all easily incorporate into our winter makeup routine to keep the doldrums away and give us that glowing babyface:

1. Consider switching foundation formulas for the winter.  For instance, for most of the year I use a loose powder foundation.  When I start feeling dry, I switch to a tinted moisturizer with a bit of translucent powder on top.  It’s nice to have a couple different formulas in your foundation “wardrobe” for situations such as this!

2.  If you absolutely lovelovelove your current foundation, try mixing a pea-size amount of tinted moisturized into your liquid foundation.  It will give you the same finish, but with the added boost of additional emollients to smooth the skin.

3.  Cream blush!!!  There are many formulas out that are suitable for all skin types, and give a natural glow without feeling heavy on the skin.  My favorites are from Stila and Laura Mercier.  Use the pad of your index finger and warm a small amount on the back of your hand.  Then blend lightly onto the apples of the cheeks, adding more for greater intensity.

4.  Lip balm is your new best friend.  Really, this should be year round, but during these cold months especially.  There’s nothing more unpleasant than trying to apply that brand new red lipstick over dry, flaky lips!  I keep one by my bed, one in my purse, and probably several places in between!

Are you a bride?  Use some of these tips to have dewy winter skin on your wedding day.  Not a bride?  Try them anyway and enjoy the glow!

photos by our friends at Liquid Shutter

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“…you want to be the song, the song that you hear in your head, love…”

There’s just something about the beat that beckons you to move, to listen to the rhythm thumping deep in your chest.  Swirling colors on all sides, the twinkling glitter lights your face and you smile knowingly.  All is well in the world, at least for tonight.

I say go for the glamour– if you can pull off strong lips and dramatic eyes together, do it!  And don’t be afraid of color; we’re not talking about a mid-afternoon tea party, after all…

But if you do decide to go for a neutral palette, try adding just one item that shimmers– a golden shadow, cheek highlight or radiant lip gloss should do the trick.  Keep the rest soft and subtle.

And for goodness sakes, don’t be afraid of false lashes!  They can be as natural or as outrageous as you please, and they are the perfect addition to any evening look.   At the disco, everyone will say…”Who is that lady in the corner with the sultry eyes?”

Any you’ll know that it’s you.  So own it, and enjoy the night.

photos courtesy of marie claire

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