The Makeup Box

Helena Christensen with heavy liner-rimmed eyes

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There’s something so instantly sexy about eyes rimmed with solid black. It draws attention to the gaze and adds subtle drama without having to apply a whole lot of other makeup.

This look on Helena Christensen is actually similar to the Mila Kunis version here, because the liner

• goes onto the water line (inner rim of the bottom lashes) thickly so there is no flesh visible
• follows the downward slope of the upper lash line at the outer corners. 
• is probably waterproof black gel for that intensity, control, and ability to cling in an opaque layer to the water line.

The only difference is that Mila’s liner is slightly thicker and then extends into a low wing at the outer corners (more dramatic), while Helena’s does not extend beyond the corner of hers (great for day or if you’re new to liners).

Both Helena and Mila have slightly sloping doe eyes, and this way of applying liner plays it up.  If your eyes don’t slope, it would still be gorgeous; just more cat-like.

(Note that if you have a mono-lid or your eyes are extremely hooded (the fold goes over your lash line at the outer portions, this look would not work for you.)

http://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/

Wet n Wild Coloricon “Greed” Palette (Glam Look)

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This is a second look featuring the Wet n Wild Coloricon Palette “Greed”. Previously, I did a softer, more colorful look using the shimmery and coral-toned shades. This time, it’s more a play on shapes and contrast than washes of color.

Step 1: Apply eyeshadow base over the lids, then black kohl pencil along the upper and lower lash lines. Smudge along the upper lids, and then re-line right at the root of lashes so it is darker there.

Step 2: Using a flat, firm brush, pack the matte black shade along the liner on upper and lower lids, and then extend outward in a wing. It should be thicker at the outer halves, and not too curved.

Step 3: Apply the shimmery coral in the lid area, not extending up past the socket line. Then use a small brush to blend matte coral along the outer half of the socket lines for some subtle contouring.

Step 4: Using a clean pencil brush, run the silvery-gold shade along the inner half of the socket line. This gives shape and very interesting contrast.

Step 5: Apply black liquid liner close tot he lash line, and then false lashes and black mascara to finish the look.

Milky Salmon Lips at Nina Ricci F/W 2011

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The season’s It Lip is equal parts peach, equal parts pink. It’s a re-interpretation of last season’s coral, but this time it’s satiny-matte, cut with lots of cream, and completed with a dash of strawberry milk.

Allure suggests Nars Matte Velvet Lip Pencil in Bolero. To get an affordable version of the shade, I’d suggest you try NYX’s Tangerine lip liner. 

Teal, on Teal, on Teal with Spiky Lashes (Monochromatic Eyes, Makeup and Nails)

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[Photo source: stylehive.com]

Wearing the same color on eyes, cheeks and lips is seldom a good idea, but the same eye makeup, eye color, and nails, can look very arresting. Just don’t pair all that with the same colored outfit, and you’ll be fine.