We dealt with 'How to apply make-up' in the first article on make-overs at party time. We go on to the eyes and how to get that subtle finesse in your eye make-up so that you don't overdo it and end up looking all eyes! You will need eyeshadow, eyeliner and mascara for this exercise.
Ready to take the plunge? Don't worry! You will find a new, subtly yet beautifully made up face looking at you from your mirror! A few simple steps will put you in that league of beautifully turned out women who have managed to look good with just a few strokes!
Did you know that 2 or even 3 shades of eyeshadow can be used at a time? Decide on the basic colour you are going to use, depending on your outfit. Then choose the complementing colours. Remember that the colours should get progressively lighter from your eyelids to the eyebrows.
The basic strong shade which will stand out the most is applied first with short strokes on the entire eyelid. Lay the colour on very lightly so that it does not cake. Do not go right up to the eyebrows and avoid applying on the crease.
Next, with one sweep, apply the lighter colour(s) above the primary shade and again below the eyebrow.
Want to give your eyes that special 'smoky' look? Choose a dark blue, gray eyeshadow and brush it around the outer corners of your eyes and blend it nicely into the primary colour. Take care not to go beyond a 1/4 inch from your eyes.
Next in line is the eyeliner. You could use black, brown or gray according to the shade of your outfit. Draw a thin line as close to the base of your eyelids as possible. Begin the application from the inside corner of your eye and work your way out.
Don't have a steady hand for drawing the line in one stroke? No problem. You could do it in short strokes too, only remember there should be no breaks in the line.
You could line the bottom of your eyes in pretty much the same way. It will give you a more dramatic look. When doing this just remember to go in the opposite direction i.e. begin at the outside corner and work your way in.
Got your mascara ready? If you have long eyelashes, you might enhance them with an eyelash curler. Always use the curler before you apply the mascara or your lashes will stick to the mascara wand and will be in danger of being plucked out.
Never keep pumping the wand into the mascara - it will only make it dry out faster. Instead, gently insert the wand into the mascara and simply turn it a couple of times so that it gets nicely and evenly coated.
Use quick, even strokes to run the wand on the lashes in the direction away from the face. Do not give in to the temptation of applying more than two coats and always wait for the mascara to dry between coats. Mascara, when applied well, give your lashes a lovely thick look which will only serve to enhance your eyes.
You will do well to invest in an eyelash comb. Using this will help to get rid of clumps, if any, and also separate your lashes to give them an even, natural look.
Follow these simple guidelines and get ready to be feted as the belle of the ball!
Await our next make-up guide - it is going to be on application of lipstick and the right use of lipliner.
