I was in a rotten mood the other day before I put my makeup on - which I can thankfully say doesn’t happen too often for me! I was feeling overwhelmed by my to-do list and my inbox, then we got hit with an unexpected BIG household expense, and I hadn’t had the time to go to my workout class to relieve stress. I wasn’t sure how to get out of my funk, but knew I had to do something to get myself ready to go out to an appointment. Usually the routine of “putting on my face,” helps calm me, but this day I needed to do something more.
Jennifer shares Why You Should Take A Risk With Your Makeup Look
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While it's comfortable to stick with the tried-and-true makeup looks as I sat there looking in my new vanity mirror, $125, (it’s INCREDIBLE BTW if you’re in the market for one) there is something exhilarating about taking risks with your makeup look.
One of my favorite style icons is 102 year old Iris Apfel. Her quote below really speaks to this idea of taking a risk with your personal style instead of blending in…
Embracing change and experimenting with new things not only adds a splash of creativity to our routine, but also opens up a world of possibilities for self-expression. By taking a RISK with your makeup (remember it’s NOT PERMANENT) you give yourself a chance to discover what truly resonates with you in a very simple way.
So instead of reaching for my go-to neutrals palette, I grabbed the $6 one that is a literal rainbow of colors and quite honestly, rarely gets used.
I decided to play with shades of pink and orange…two shades I never use for my eyes! As scary as it sounded, I was in one of those moods where I felt rebellious and figured, “Geez, it can’t make today can’t get any worse!” And guess what happened? After I finished playing around and got to the end, my mood was immediately lifted because I had created something out of the ordinary, something that made me feel, well, pretty cool.
Here’s a quick explanation as to why I think you should experiment more with your makeup, IF that’s important to you. And as I explain why it could benefit you, I’ll take you through the steps of my very bold eye makeup look.
We all have our go-to makeup routines, and while they may be reliable, they can become mundane. Trying new things injects excitement into your beauty regimen. Whether it's incorporating unconventional color combinations or experimenting with different textures, breaking boredom keeps your mind and face fresh!
Beginning steps - Skin Prep + Eyes. I prepped my skin with moisturizer then a sample for the first time of Natasha Denona’s Hy-Gen Energizing + Hydrating Primer Serum, $48, and I was floored! Can you see the gleam in my skin in the photo?? It was so glowy and luminous. Will def be buying a full bottle of this.
Then I went straight to the eyes. Took my trusty Nars eyeshadow base and applied all over my lid, then I used the deep pink first, then added the orange around it. All matte finishes.
Finished off with a baby wing using my L’Oreal brown liquid liner (much less harsh than a black one), whitened my inner water line with the one I always use, tarte Fake Awake pencil, then lots of Lash Idôle mascara!
Makeup is a fun form of self-expression, and like any art form, it can even allow us to convey our emotions and personality. And attempting new looks enables you to adapt your makeup to your mood, expressing yourself in a way that doesn’t even need words! From a mysterious smokey eye, remember this recent tutorial I shared, to vibrant and playful, your makeup can mirror your mood!
Middle steps - Finish Skin + Cheeks. It’s amazing what a bit of foundation and concealer can do! Since I used the luminous skin primer, AND I was going for such a colorful eye, I wanted the skin to not look as made up and appear a bit more fresh. So I pulled out one of my favorite drugstore products, the L’Oreal True Match Nude Skin Tint, $15, shade 2-3.
I used this on a client the other day who just detests (her word not mine!) the feel of foundation but wanted some decent coverage. And once I put her in this formula she was astounded at how it literally feels like nothing once it sinks in and looks so skin-like.
Of course I used the Natasha Denona Hy Glam concealer, $30, because it's a rockstar for mature eyes - shade RN 3. And finished with a soft but colorful cheek with the Hourglass Ambient Light blush in “Sublime Flush” which is just one of the most gorgeous blush formulas out right now that applies so buttery smooth with a hint of reflectiveness.
Every risk you take with techniques, new products, and styles with your makeup look is an opportunity to enhance and grow your skills. Even if a particular look doesn't turn out as expected, the process of experimentation contributes to your overall knowledge and proficiency.
Complete the Look with Lips + Accessories. I skipped lip liner but went for the viral maracuja juicy lip plump formula we all already love by tarte cosmetics. BUT it’s now available in a new shimmery, glass finish. It uses glossy duo chrome pearls that melt for a multidimensional, juicy shine without any unwanted glitter - it’s GORGEOUS and so fun.
I’m wearing the shade “Rosy Copper Shimmer.” If you haven’t tried a Maracula Juicy Lip Plumper, PLEASE do, you’ll know why once you click it up and swipe it on. It comes in just a high shine version, but if you want to have some real fun, do the new shimmer finishes to step out of the box!
Clothing wise I chose a more traditional staple piece in a sleeveless turtleneck, similar Banana Republic one here, $80 (bc the weather can’t make up it’s mind here in Georgia). And then accessories accessories! My large chunky teardrop earrings are a great statement piece as well as my fun colorful acrylic rings, $16. Oh, and the gold stackable Amazon bracelets I wear ALL THE TIME that do not turn!
Stepping outside your makeup comfort zone can be empowering. It's an opportunity to challenge societal norms and embrace your individuality. The confidence gained from trying new makeup looks goes beyond the physical; it can overflow into other aspects of your life, reminding you of the beauty in being a true individual. I may be 46 years old, but I rocked that neon eyeshadow and owned it!
Remember, your face is truly a canvas and makeup can be the paint to enhance it - no matter how subtle OR bold. I challenge you to treat yourself to a new colorful eyeliner or trade in that clear chapstick for a shimmery finish gloss. After all, the most memorable people (and looks!) are often the ones willing to take a chance 🙂
Did you catch my popular Best Drugstore Makeup Dupes post?? It’s been getting a lot of love from you ladies so I will absolutely be doing these posts more regularly!
Yesterday, Beth and Kelly shared casual late-winter outfits. Click the title or image below to read the article.
is our beauty & makeup contributor. She posts a weekly column on Wednesdays.
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You are a doll! Love these posts. At 70, I still love my make up!
You’re the best Rhonda!! thank you for the kind words and keep enjoying the small pleasure that a little makeup can bring everyday!
Another fun post with make-up! I think I’m an addict!
Had to have that bright palette Jennifer. Thanks! You always deliver and your look is “wild!” I don’t think I’ll go quite that far, but you look great!
Also, just read the Friday’s with Oscar. That whole post was great too! Love the outfits and both recipes. Fantastic! So much fun to read this blog. Keep up the great work!
I can think of a lot of worse things to be addicted to right Nancy?!! Makeup for life! the look was a bit wild but definitely got out of my makeup slump 🙂 thanks for being here!
Love your Saturday posts Pretty Lady!
So happy to hear you’re enjoying them every Saturday Cindy – means a lot!