One of the most noticeable things about Alberta Ferretti’s Fall Runway show was not only the designs featured, but the beauty trends amongst the models. The look for this show was created by makeup artist Peter Philips and hairstylist Guido Palau. Done up in basic looks, that are really anything but, reminiscent of the 1960s. They all looked like a modern day versions of Twiggy and Brigitte Bardot. It also happens to be one of my all time favorite looks and is also my every day look.

To achieve this look at home, keep in mind that it’s important to highlight your natural beauty. The point of any and all cosmetics looks is to enhance what you’ve already got. Not to cover it up or change how you look. This style works so well with that beauty philosophy because of the minimalist approach that it takes.

For the base look, start with moisturizer and, if you wish, a make up primer. Well moisturized skin allows for a much smoother and even application of any cosmetics. Sometimes, I also apply a thicker night cream to my cheeks only. I’ve found that this helps keep them looking fresher through out the day. Using a primer (my favorite is Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer) helps keep your look in place all day. Apply concealer around your eyes, on the side of each nostril, and on any problem spots. Using a concealer brush will not only help your application look better, but it’s a lot easier on your skin than your fingers. Apply a matte finish foundation all over your face. Personally, I mix my liquid foundation with moisturizer. I like that it makes the coverage a little more sheer and it goes on smoothly. If you have a foundation brush, now is the time to be sure to use it. In case you didn’t notice, moisturizer plays a big part in my beauty routine. The difference between using it liberally and not using it enough is a lot bigger than one might realize. Set the foundation with a dusting of loose powder.

To create contour and depth to your face, use blush, bronzer, and highlighter. The trick is to not go overboard with any of those products and to use each with a light hand. Be sure to tap your brushes or blow on them to remove excess make up before they touch your face. Blush should be applied to the apples of your cheeks, which is the part that sticks out when you smile. For this look, stick with a very pale pink or peach tone. Instead of bronzer, I tend to use another loose powder that is a shade or two darker than my own skin tone. This creates contour without having the overdone look that bronzer can give. Apply the bronzer or powder to the hollows of your cheeks, which will appear if you suck your cheeks into a “fish face”. Also give a light dusting on the bridge of your nose, your forehead, and collar bones. These are places that the sun would naturally hit. If you wish to use a highlighter on your face, apply a small amount to your cheek bones.

For this look, the eyes are key. Start by applying your eyeshadow, which should be a basic brown or tan color. Remember to apply the lighter shades towards the inner corners of your eyes and to apply the darkest shade to your crease. Even though some discourage it, I like to start with a base eyeshadow before adding contouring colors. I feel like this keeps the look more natural since the same tone is blended into all shades. Next, line your entire eye with black eye pencil. Liquid works as well, but this look really is best with a slightly smudged line. Apply a darker eyeshadow to the crease as needed to balance out the eyeliner. Then curl your lashes and coat with black mascara.

Keep the lips simple. Either with a basic lip balm, a mix of foundation and lip balm, or select a nude or peach lip stick. When there is this much emphasis on your eyes it’s best to keep the lips neutral.

When styling hair, keep in mind that this look is based on retro looks when straight locks were in. This doesn’t mean that they should be, or need to be, pin straight though. A bit of wave can add some innocent sexiness to this look and help keep it casual. Let your hair air dry and apply a heat protecting spray or gel. Use a flat iron to straighten your strands as little or as much as you wish. Side parts look more mature with this look, but a center part works well too. If you do a center part, while straightening your hair, be sure to pull the front section forward. Mist your hair with hairspray and tease your roots with your fingers or a comb if desired. I prefer to use my fingers because it adds a bit of messiness to the look while still leaving it polished. If you want super smooth locks, finish with a shine spray.

This entry was posted on Sunday, March 30th, 2008 at 11:18 pm and is filed under Beauty & Cosmetics, Fashion. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.