As a (self titled) fashionista, I’m usually all about the trends. Neon? Check. Chambray shirts? Found it at Old Navy, thankyouverymuch. Cutesy sweater with animal face prominently displayed on over my breasts? On my wish list. Does that come in plus size?
However, when it comes to makeup, I find it hard to get on board with trends. Every fall and spring I stalk the internets like every other (self titled) fashionista, waiting to get a glimpse of what Michael, Marc, and their brethren think are hot for the season. I ooh and ahh over the clothes, only to close my browser and say “but where in the world would you actually wear that?” Just like the clothes, runway makeup and hair is often styled in an over the top way – a way that isn’t appropriate for everyday wear. It can be hard to figure out how to incorporate what Anna approves into our everyday lives.
Well, this fall I decided to take it upon myself to not only stalk to runway, but to figure out how I can adapt the runway makeup to be appropriate for day and night. Not only have I done that, but I’ve done it on a budget!
Look One: Smoky Brown Eyes
Smoky brown eyes were all over the runways this fall. This is actually a very wearable look for anyone. In this pictures, I’ve amped it up for a Girl’s Night Out, but you can make this a daytime look by subbing the black liner for brown.
How To: Use a medium coverage foundation, such as Revlon Colorstay. Cover any blemishes or imperfections with concealer and set foundation with a light dusting of powder. Apply a light pink blush to cheeks, such as NYX Powder Blush in Pinched.
Using the Maybelline Eye Studio Color Plush Silk Eyeshadow in Green with Envy (or similar compact), apply the light brown shade to the lower lid up to the crease. Apply the green shade in your crease. Apply the dark brown shade to the outer third of your lower lid, pulling it up into your crease. Blend well. Apply the cream shade to your brow bone. Line your eyes with a black kohl liner, such as Ulta Eye Liner Pencil in Smoke. Dip a pencil brush into the dark brown shadow and tap off excess. Smudge the black kohl liner on your upper and lower lash lines with your pencil brush. Get dramatic lashes with L’Oreal Voluminous Million Lashes mascara.
Finish your look by applying a link pink gloss, such as Revlon Super Lustrous Lipgloss in Pink Whisper.
Look Two: Cat Eyeliner & Red Lips
Dramatic liquid liner was heavily featured in the runway shows of Zac Posen, Anna Sui, and Lavin. Pair this with a red lip and you have such a classic look, perfect for the office or for a night out.
How To: This look calls for very full coverage foundation. I recommend Revlon Colorstay Makeup or L’Oreal Infallible Makeup. Apply with a damp foundation brush and then cover any blemishes or imperfections with concealer. Apply a light pink cream blush, such as Maybelline Dream Bouncy Blush in Fresh Pink.
Your shadow should be very neutral and low key. Apply a cream shade all over your lid. I recommend NYX Single Eye Shadow in My Favorite Color. Apply a light taupe shade in your crease, such as NYX Single Eye Shadow in Taupe. Using thin dashing motions, apply Revlon ColorStay Liquid Eye Pen in Black in to your upper lash line. When you get to the end of your lash line, draw an angled line, pointing up towards the end of your brow. You can thicken up the line by going over what you’ve drawn until you are happy with the width of your liner. I am wearing NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Monte Carlo on my lips.
Look Three: Berry Lips
Berry lips are the most wearable look from the runway. This look is perfect for daytime!
How To: This look calls for a lighter coverage foundation, such as Garnier Skin Renew Miracle Skin Perfector BB Cream. Apply it with a damp sponge for a flawless look. You can use concealer for a little extra coverage if needed. I used the same products on my eyes and cheeks as I did in the look above, minus the black liquid liner. This look calls for lots of mascara, so apply several coats, pausing in between to comb your lashes.
Maybelline has several gorgeous plum lipsticks available in light to dark shades. I recommend Maybelline ColorSensational High Shine lipstick in Dazzling Plum.
Will you be trying out any of these looks for fall?
Image Sources: Harper’s Bazaar, Maybelline, Elle, Elle Canada, Maybelline
Andrea House is a Southern bell and a self-titled beauty maven that deals with her toddler’s frequent meltdowns by seeking peace in the aisles of Sephora and Ulta. By day she is a social worker, while at night she manages her household while reading story books in her best Elmo voice. Andrea blogs at My Chihuahua Bites, where her blog philosophy is “keepin’ it real.” You can catch her on Twitter or Facebook!









It’s really nice to see these looks made for every day wearing. I love how you’ve pulled this all together. Beautiful!
Thank you Cindy! I like that they are so achievable! Red and berry lips – just slick on lipstick and you are done.
I love these looks…I think I could actually do smoky brown eyes!!
Yes you can! Although I think with your coloring you’d look great with a berry lip.
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