[you're] bad at makeup
easy tips and tricks to do better makeup💄
Today, we’re diving into my approach to makeup and how I found my signature makeup style in the sea of beauty microtrends and product overload. For my paid subscribers, as a treat!
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observations
💄 red lipsticks for darker skintones
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question
hypothesis
Makeup is the last frontier of personal style.
I went to the ballet this week. Lincoln Center would put up a good fight for the chicest locale in New York City and an all-black ensemble the most appropriate attire. You could say my Halloween costume this year was embodying an old Hollywood starlet complete with a sleek updo and pearls. I’d tell you that’s just a chic New Yorker’s vibe on a Thursday night. It also wouldn’t be complete without glittering eyeshadow and a lipstick dripping with secrets.
It’s funny how you wouldn’t recognize yourself or your behaviors in only a year’s time.
On July 24th, 2023, I ordered my first lip liners (MAC Chestnut and NYX Hot Cocoa) from Ulta. Now, I don’t leave my house without a daily, rotating three step lip combo.
But, as a beginner, how do you navigate the monstrosity of a $500 (and growing) billion dollar industry?1
experiments
Strip away the noise. My number one tip is to ignore what everyone else is doing [at first]. Close out TikTok and Instagram and start fresh.
List out your makeup goals in the notes app.
an everyday, makeup look I can do in five minutes for under $50
a foolproof base routine for date night and weddings
find the best waterproof mascara
achieve the light, effortless look of a heroine in a 90s period piece
Find your inspiration.
media - movies, tv, billboards, magazines
social - celebrities, makeup artists, influencers, friends
people watching
Learn the techniques. I used to operate more on vibes than on technique and that’s realistically not gonna work if you’re serious about consistently, stellar makeup. Stop applying your concealer with your fingers. Brushes are going to be your new best friend. Promise.