When you’re getting dressed for prom, you’ve usually got one thing in mind: standing out. You want to make a statement with your dress, shoes, hair, and accessories — and, of course, your makeup plays into this too.
For 2014, there are a lot of new trends for prom. Pastel dresses are extremely on-trend, and short dresses aren’t just for homecoming anymore. It’s the same way with makeup — there are different styles that come and go every year, and in 2014, we think they’re better than ever. Learn how to look chic, modern, and show-stopping without being over the top with these tips.
Sun-Kissed Beauty Without the Booth
A lot of girls go tanning in the months leading up to prom to have a sun-kissed glow on the big day. If you’re not the type to spend the cash or the time in a tanning booth, bronzer is your friend! All you have to do is find a color a few shades darker than your skin tone, and with a little shimmer if you’re feeling sassy. Sweep a generous amount onto the apples of your cheeks, on your jawline, and on your temples. It not only provides a healthy glow, but it contours your face to accentuate your bone structure.
Match your Eyes and your Nails
Not sure what color to paint your nails? Here’s an idea: match it to the eyeshadow you want to wear (or vice versa!). Some of our favorite shadow/polish pairings are lilac, mint, and rose gold.
Add Instant Glamour with Smokey Eyes
If you’ve got a simple dress that you want to play up with makeup, or if you’re just going for a sultry look, the smokey eye is key. Smokey eyes involve dark eyeshadow and a smudgy, rather than sharp and defined, shadow line. It’s fairly easy to do, and contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to use blacks and grays — you can use dark shades of any color, like purple, teal, or bronze. There are plenty of tutorials on YouTube so you can teach yourself.
Highlight your Assets
A light, shimmery highlighter is a great way to make you look radiant while drawing attention to your high cheekbones and making your face appear thinner. It’s easy to do — purchase a highlighting cream or powder, or just use your favorite white or champagne-colored eyeshadow (the lighter, the better). Sweep it down the bridge of your nose, from between your eyebrows to the tip. Put it on top of your cheekbones (bronzer should go below), on your cupid’s bow, and below your eyebrows, right on the bone. It’s easy and it makes a huge difference!
Go for a Bold Lip
If you’re not the type to go over-the-top with your eyeshadow, simply opting for some liner and maybe a champagne shadow, make a statement with your lips, instead. Bold shades of fuchsia, red, or pink will give you that va-va-voom with minimal effort. Don’t forget to exfoliate, moisturize, and line your lips before applying a lipstick in order to make it last all night without drying out.