Prom is an opportunity for you to feel extra special–and make a statement by playing around with bold colors! We all know that when we look good, we feel good; but the other way around is just as important: When we feel good, we look good. Take this day to pamper yourself so that you may radiate health and happiness–and have an amazing night to remember! Whether you’re planning on amping up a black dress or taking a colorful look to the next level, scroll on. This prom makeup tutorial–featuring bright eyeshadow–is fun, edgy, and unforgettable!
Prom Makeup Tutorial
Skin Prep:
Step 1: A quick way to refresh skin is to use a light exfoliant. My favorites are Peter Thomas Roth Firming Peeling Gel, Charlotte Tilbury Goddess Clay Mask, and Tatcha Violet- C Radiant Face mask. These masks are quick and make the most difference while applying makeup. (Always patch test in your inner forearm to make sure you’re not allergic to any ingredients.)
Step 2: Moisturize your skin with your favorite moisturizer–and don’t forget your sunscreen!
Step 3: Apply a light and luminous primer to catch the beautiful evening setting and lighting of prom. Here, I used Charlotte Tilbury Wonder glow primer.
Step 4: Finish your face with a light foundation, conceal where needed, and set your face with a light loose powder to keep the center of the face shine-free.
Eyes:
Prom is a perfect opportunity to dazzle with your eyes–so let them do all the talking on the big night!
Step 5: Prep eyelids with your foundation or concealer and set it with your loose powder. This will give us a blank/ bright canvas to work on making the pigments and colors pop. I chose a shimmery purple to make my model’s blue eyes pop. This would be a wonderful color for green eyes as well. A warmer pink or purple would be stunning on brown and darker eyes. I’m in love with the Viseart Eyeshadow palette–it has so many options and the colors are just stunning and so easy to work with. Apply this color all over the lid and also run it through the lower lash line. Buff out the edges with a clean brush to soften the colors.
Step 6: Use a lighter shimmering pink to highlight the inner corners and brow bone. This brings dimension to the look.
Step 7: Skip lining the lids with any dark colors thereby keeping the color used as the focus. This also helps the look remain fresh. Line the waterline with a white eyeliner (I used Sephora Collection Glide liner in White Snow).
Step 8: Add lashings of mascara to help open the eyes.
Finish the Look:
Step 9: Apply your favorite nude blush on the apples of your cheek. This will help bring color to your face without overdoing it. (I used Hourglass Ambient Light Blush in Mood Exposure) Highlight the tops of your cheekbones, bridge of nose and cupid’s bow with a highlighter (such as Dior Face glow palette).
Step 10: Fill your lips with a beautiful rose pink color, or if you’re feeling daring, wear a bright magenta like our model. (I used Marc Jacobs Le Marc Lip Creme in Kiss Kiss Bang Bang.)
See the full prom makeup tutorial video here!
Would you wear this bold prom makeup look? Tell us your thoughts in the comments–then shop prom must-haves in our shop!
Sadhvi Babu is a New York City-based professional makeup artist whose work includes editorials, fashion photoshoots, shows, and lookbooks.
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