Blend a few or all of these tips into your prom or wedding makeup for a spectacular look

May 26, 2008 09:54 GMT  ·  By

The wedding and prom season is approaching fast, and since all of you fashion-forward ladies are always looking for novelties, tips and the latest news on what kind of makeup to wear on such occasions, here are a few suggestions that might help you choose the best look for your big nights.

Keep in mind that prom or wedding makeup is fun because we're allowed to go slightly over the top, use shimmering colors, bolder nuances of eyeliner, fake lashes and more intense shades of lipstick. However, the number one rule of evening makeup still holds: keep the focus on one area of the face, whether it's your eyes or your mouth, in order to avoid looking like a kid clown who got to test mommy's new face paint kit.

Flawless skin is essential for the perfect prom look - remember that there will be lots of people taking photos, which means that you'll need a long-lasting look devoid of that odious shine. For that, clean your skin regularly and moisturize it for an even look. Start with applying concealer around the eyes and on the upper lid to brighten the area. Then add a silicone-based primer to keep your makeup looking flawless longer and don't abuse your foundation. Avoid a pent-up, overdone look and only apply the foundation in the areas that you need to smooth out, then set your makeup with some loose powder.

Now let's move on to the eyes. Use a combination of cream and powder eyeshadow for a long-lasting finish. Apply the creamy, neutral base using your finger, working your way from the lash line towards the brow. Then start applying powdery shadow, first a neutral tone to set the cream and diffuse the shimmer, and then move on to the brighter color. Go for a classic smoky eye with a twist. Don't use the ever-present blacks and charcoal grays, but go for deep purples, emerald greens, or deep even blues, or mix bronze and copper shades with chocolate browns. If you feel the whole look is too bright, add a sobering touch and apply a thin line of black eyeliner. Apply several coats of mascara and you're done.

Now, for your cheeks and lips. Use a bit of bronzer on the cheeks for a healthy summer glow, then add a neutral blush with golden finish on top for added radiance. If you've gone for a dramatic eye makeup, keep the lips soft and natural. A lip gloss is your best option. If you're wearing a more colorful dress and have gone for a more neutral eye makeup, put on lipstick in shades of orange, coral or bright fuchsia and top it up with lip gloss for added moisture and shine.