If there is one thing you learn in more than seven years of modeling experience, it is what it takes to look your best.
On countless sets working with dozens of makeup artists, trends begin to appear that are undeniable. I considered every moment before a photoshoot a mini masterclass on what to do—and what not to do—to create a flawless makeup look that fit my features.
After years of field research, my conclusions are simple, practical, and perfect for even the laziest of beauty queens.
What You Need
The Base
This is where it can go so right, or so wrong. Myself and many others remember the trenches that were 2016 makeup. While we have since learned that eyebrows should look like they are made of hair and not Sharpie, and that false lashes are not an everyday necessity, we still tend to associate beauty with exaggerated features.
This is where the major mistake is made. Your skin should, as sad as it is to say, resemble skin. This does not mean discolored and riddled with the typical imperfections that we all have and hide, but it does mean avoiding multiple layers of full coverage foundation. In my honest and deeply unpopular opinion, foundation is a thing of the past. There are honorable mentions such as the Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech foundation that makes an honest effort, but overall they should be avoided.
I suggest finding and falling in love with a concealer that does the heavy lifting for you. For me, this is the cult classic NARS Creamy Concealer. The key to concealer working is to use it properly after applying a base of some kind. This is where it is convenient to find a skin tint or CC cream that has the sun protection you need. For those not yet willing to part from a more caked-on effect, the IT Cosmetics CC Cream is the ideal bridge to a more natural look.
The Eyes
For anyone who has a love of makeup, the eyes are a sensitive topic. We are all very defensive of our eye look—mascara application, eyeliner placement, choice of lash extension or false lash, etc. The reason criticism feels so personal here is because eye makeup is incredibly specific to the individual.
Everyone has a different eye shape, and most of us harbor frustration from rude comments of our younger years that indicated a flaw. Said comments commonly came in the form of suddenly finding out one day that your eyes are too big, too small, too close together, or too far apart. While we know now those comments came from immaturity, many women found an eye look that adjusted for these supposed imperfections and have stuck with it ever since.
So, and I'll hold your hand when I say this, put down the false lashes. Remove the extensions. Go ahead and toss that thick mascara you've loved since middle school. It's time to address what you are working with and own it completely. What I found over the course of my modeling career was that more is more. As in, we notice. The more you cake your lashes in mascara, apply a thick lash, or add additional extensions, your lashes look heavy, weighed down, and off-balance.
The Contour
One beautiful thing to come out of that insane 2010s glam era was contouring (thank you Kim K). While many have abandoned the contour or adjusted their routine to focus more on the benefits of blush, there are the dedicated who still cling to its sculpting effects. I do not endorse purchasing overpriced contour kits or contour sticks that ask you to make a Mona Lisa from some deep brown pigment and a dream.
I encourage everyone to find a product that works for them. I have rotated through many over the years, but most recently have been utilizing a bronzing stick as my contour to give the same effect without the intensity. For those who are committed to contour, try lightening up on the darker areas and toning down the lighter areas. That stark white concealer is not blending the way you intend for it to, and that contour stick is beginning to look like a mud stain.
The Perfect Pout
While we all live for a lip combo, I find that there is one product that is so deeply underrated in the way that it should be. I'm talking about a basic, drugstore, clear lip gloss. Prior to my first photoshoot, my agent required I pick up a clear lip gloss. I found it somewhat frivolous and random, but, being a total newbie, purchased one accordingly.
The difference I saw in those photos was shocking. It may be a trick of the light, but a classic, clear lip gloss will enhance your lips in a major way. Given that lip combos are loved for very good reason, I will recommend my favorite, though maybe less trendy. Grab a basic clear lip gloss from any brand you know and love. Prior to applying, go in with a nearly nude lip liner. This is a liner that almost perfectly matches the color of your lips and is the ideal tone.
Do a soft outline around the lips and be sure to bring the liner all the way to the corners of your mouth for a fuller pout. Bring a little extra pigment under the bottom lip to create an almost shadow-like effect. From there, apply to the lip gloss by first touching the top of that liner on the top lip and swiping down, and then the bottom of the liner on the bottom lip and swiping up. Bring your lips together for just one quick second, and you are set.
I began to make a list of what you do not need, but I realized that everything outside of the above would be on it. So take what resonates and begin to see your makeup routine as an opportunity to emphasize the beauty that already exists instead of trying to create a mask to hide your imperfections.
I promise the true you will shine through, and you will be right there to meet her.
Cover Photo by Liubov Ilchuk
