Published March 2, 2014
Maria’s overall look is a classic choice for a formal evening. Dewey skin, a nude lip and eyes that pop. Her makeup choices are refined, and her hairstyle is classic, captivating her beauty without being overdone, allowing the starlet to appear regal and timeless.
The face: Start by moisturizing with a slightly heavier moisturizer than normal. (for dry and medium skin tones, if you are prone to oily skin, dewey make-up is not the best way to go.) Next, use a luminizing lotion or primer to add a layer of luster. Add a layer of sheer foundation. It’s lightweight but helps to make the skin appear “dewy”. Next, apply a liquid or cream highlighter to your cheek and brow bones. Use a translucent powder under your eyes and around the edges of your nose. Do not over powder because her look is dewy, not matte. Finalize with a cream blush.
The eyes: Start by applying a creamy concealer on your eyelid. This creates a smooth canvas for your eye shadow to stick to. Lightly sweep a pressed powder over your entire eyelid to minimize creasing. Next, you’ll take a black eye pencil and trace your top lash line from the inner corner to the outer. Then, use the same pencil to line your lower lashes. Try Colour Box Eye Pencil in Black. Take a medium shade (light charcoal or dark grey) and start to blend it from halfway across your eyelid. Always blend your shadow upward and outward into the crease of your eyelid. Implementing a blending brush, sweep the darkest shade (black) into the outer corner of the eye and the crease to create a dark, intense shadow for the ultimate smokey appeal. To balance the intensity of your upper lid, take the darkest shade and sweep a little just under your eye close to your bottom lash line. Now blend any harsh lines that are still apparent. Finish your look with a dark black mascara.
The lip: To begin, exfoliate lips with a lip scrub and apply a smooth balm to make sure lips are moist and soft. Skin tone plays a big role in achieving the perfect nude lip. If you are fair, opt for peachy pinks. For medium to dark skin, opt for peachy beiges. Generally, warmer colors will work best. Stay away from truly pale nudes and white tones as this can make you appear ghostly or washed out. Once lips are exfoliated, apply concealer to your lips; make sure it is close to your natural skin tone, this will help neutralize the natural, pinker shade of your lips. Line your lips with a nude shade slightly darker than your chosen lipstick. For the lipstick, make sure it is a moisturizing formula and apply generously. Nothing looks worse than a cracked and dry nude lip. To amplify this kissable look, top with a clear, nude or pale pink gloss to enhance the look.
The hair: Maria’s stylist implemented a subtle variation on the crown braid with her understated, yet glamorous, up do. To create this look, you will want to create a loose, soft French braid. Start by separating hair into two low pigtails. (This will look best on medium to long styles) Braid both sections and secure with clear elastics. Next, pull one braid up over your head and bobby pin it an inch back from your hairline. Repeat on the opposite side, positioning the second braid behind the first. Make sure your braids are loose and soft, as seen on Maria.
The dress: Opt for a classic, floor sweeping gown in a light shade such as white or silver. And remember to find one that sparkles! Beading, sequins or swarovski’s can all add a hint of shimmer to captivate your audience.
The clutch: While Maria carried a gorgeous sand-filled lucite clutch by Ashlyn’D, you achieve a similar look by carrying a clutch that compliments your gown by choosing one that is understated yet glamorous.
