You want something dramatic, without entering Cleopatra territory. You want something natural, without looking mousy.
Welcome to the complex world of eye makeup.
But Christina Hall, a master stylist and makeup artist at salon NG (6298 Veterans Parkway), says it doesn't have to be too complex after all.
She recently demonstrated a "natural but fun" look that's appropriate for both the workplace and the social scene. The best part: The process only takes about seven minutes, Hall said.
Want to test it out? Hall has a few advance pointers. Start with a clean brow and good foundation. Also, Hall recommends getting a good set of brushes, as opposed to the sponges that are often sold with makeup.
One more tip: If you're wearing dark eye makeup go for more subtle lip makeup. "Maybe gloss or a light natural color," Hall said.
Got it? Let's do this.
STEP 1
Highlighting shadow
Use a color with a name like "champagne," Hall said. Apply it to the entire lid, including corners, using a bigger brush. This will help brighten your eye.
STEP 2: Base color
Use a light brown shade that's very neutral. Apply it to just your eyelid -- not outside its boundaries -- using a medium-size brush. "That just gives just a nice, natural look," Hall said.
STEP 3: Accent color
Hall recommends using a shade of purple. Use a smaller brush and apply it through the entire lid, including the crease and corners. How much is too much? You should be able to see your eye makeup when your eye is open, Hall said. Another tip: It's generally a bad idea to match the color of your eye makeup with your clothing.
STEP 4: Eyeliner, take one
Here's a variation on the standard eyeliner routine. Using a really small brush, apply some of the accent color underneath your bottom lashes. Don't go overboard. Less is often more. "Take it a little bit at a time," Hall said.
STEP 5: Eyeliner, take two
This step, designed to make your lashes look fuller, involves an eye pencil. If you have allergies or sensitive eyes, you can skip this part. Otherwise, apply black or brown liner beginning at the inside of the lid and moving outward. Just go to the end of the lid, nowhere past. "Open your eye to make sure you got every corner," Hall said.
STEP 6: Cleanup
Take a moment to clean up any loose shadow. Hall recommends using a brow brush.
STEP 7: Mascara
Choose your color based on your skin tone, Hall said. If you have dark hair and dark skin, you should wear black mascara all the time. "Be careful of putting on too much," Hall said. It's OK to put more than one coat on the upper lashes, but apply just one coat to the bottom lashes.
