Fall Shadows

photo credit: HM.com

There's something about wearing more clothes for fall and winter that demands different makeup. Not packed-on makeup or anything too extreme, but rather, summer's darker sister. There's some sort of comfort in the monochromatic color that fall ushers in. Every gal feels a spark of excitement at the prospect of dark sultry eyes and deep-colored lipstick. Perhaps it's the welcome change that the cooler weather brings or maybe it's just another chance to test our artistic abilities. Maybe you're sitting there nodding your head as you read this or maybe you're completely lost but do notice that this is something new you can try this season (or maybe you've been on this trend already), either way I wanted to share one of my absolute favorite fall looks. As you all know, I'm a sucker for natural-looking makeup that enhances the "good stuff" that was already there. 

So here's the look that I'm naming,
Fall Shadows:

I like to think that this makeup look mimics what goes on outside in autumn. Granted, trees and plants are a bit more colorful, but it seems like everything "softens", and shadows take over as everything begins to fall asleep. I've posted pictures throughout this blog from H&M's ad campaign that appeared in Vogue last fall, because they definitely nailed the look (just love, love, love it).

So, let's start with the foundation:
In general, fall calls for a less shimmering foundation than summer. That's not to say that you have to go completely matte but a milkier complexion is in line with cooler and fewer sun-kissed days. Use a lighter matte or natural finish foundation to create light on the skin, and beige contouring powders/creams to help put the shadowing back where it belongs; as opposed to using bronzers. Try: Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation (I know it sounds shiny but really it's not), and MAC Taupe Contouring powder (pro product and their best kept secret). The LSF is going to give light to medium coverage, and create that milky complexion. The MAC powder is very neutral (not too warm or too cool) which works perfect for creating face shadows. Set with a translucent powder.

Building on the milky foundation and neutral contour, choose a subtle blush.
Orbeige is the color you are looking for (ok, maybe I made that word up), it's a mix of both beige and a hint of orange. It needs to be soft in color and blend nicely with the contour that you create. This way you will still look like you have some life in you but it won't look like you're flushed. Try: CHANEL JOUES CONTRASTE Powder Blush 160 Innocence

photo credit: HM.com

photo credit: HM.com

Next are the eyes. As I mentioned earlier this look is about mimicking shadows (yes, you have to be careful in choosing the shadows but that's the fun and unique part!). Not everyone is going to be able to shadow their eyes the same way, so pay attention to where your shadows are and how you can accentuate them without turning zombie on us. Fill in those brows, use a volumizing & lengthening mascara, and create the shadows with a few different shades of beige. There is one exception to all the shadowing: the inner corner of the eyes. That needs to have a subtle shimmer and highlight. Think of it as a glimmer in the darkness, that would catch your attention (just barely) and cause you to look deeper into the shadows.
Try: Benefit's Yes They're Real! mascara, and Inglot's Freedom System Rainbow eye shadow 107 or 112. For the highlight try something closer to skin tones no silver/white/grey base. For the brows I typically use a brown eyeshadow that is close to hair color (tone is important). 

Last are the lips. You want to choose subtle color that is in the same tone family as the blush you chose, and something that is a little more reflective. I'm not saying glossy but some lip sticks have a little bit of shine to them. Skip lip liner to keep the lips natural looking. Try: a lip stick pencil such as NARS Satin Lip Pencil color Rikugien. 

photo credit: HM.com

And there you have it: a natural fall makeup look that is magazine worthy. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.