Three of the most difficult aspects of makeup are choosing the right colors, discerning the differences between products, and learning the correct application techniques. Though these major issues need to be addressed, they are still only part of the picture. Wondering where to put your blush or how to blend your foundation before you know what type of foundation or what color of blush you should wear is putting the cart before the horse. Before you even choose specific makeup colors, discriminate between products, or deal with application, it is important to have a clear idea of the makeup look and style you want to create. Just as you choose what clothes to wear that are appropriate for where you are going—you wouldn’t put on a jogging suit to go to a formal dinner or wear a long gown for a grocery run—the same guidelines are true for makeup selection.
Color, style, and fashion are all essential elements in clothing, and they are also essential to putting together a great makeup look. Too often women shop for or apply makeup with only one of those things in mind. Shopping for a lipstick or eyeshadow color without taking into account the other items in your makeup wardrobe is a mistake. Instead, decide what kind of makeup wardrobe you want to create and then go about choosing compatible colors, products, and the application techniques to fit that concept. Think of the makeup staples you will need, such as black mascara, a healthy blush color, taupe or tan eyeshadow, and a suitable red lipstick. These items are akin to wardrobe staples such as a crisp white shirt, blue jeans, or the standard black dress—always fashionable and classic.
The way you see yourself, the way you want to be seen, what you do for a living, what you do in your leisure time, what colors are in your wardrobe, what style of clothing you are comfortable in, and how much time you are willing to spend creating a particular look all affect the way you choose and wear makeup. Those elements should set your course for choosing the right colors and products. It’s imperative to think a bit about the image you want to create before you head out and shop for makeup. Questions to ponder include: How do you want to be seen? What do you do for a living? What occupies most of your time during the day? The external image you want to project in your business life and personal life is what wearing makeup is all about.