Spring 2012’s Best Beauty Buys
Revamping your makeup wardrobe and getting your look ready for spring doesn't take a genius. It doesn't take a million dollars, either. Whether you shop at the department store or the drugstore, there are hot spring makeup items at every price point. From the boldest, brightest colors to the softest, smoothest skin, here are six ways to stay on-trend and on budget.
Trend #1: Statement Lips
"Currently, the trend is all about amping up one element of the face at a time," says Nicole Bryl, a celeb makeup artist who's worked with stars like Naomi Watts, Molly Sims, and Sandra Bullock. Whether you choose hot pink, racy red or punchy tangerine (this season's hottest shade), the trick to not looking like a rodeo clown is keeping the rest of the look simple and fresh. "Keep the emphasis on just the lip by playing down all the other features of your face with subtle shimmery accents," Bryl recommends. (Try NYX Matte Lipstick in Indie Flick, $5.99 at ULTA, or YSL Rouge Pur Couture Lip Color SPF 15 in Le Orange, $32 at Nordstrom)
Trend #2: Cornflower Blue Eyes
Eyes framed in pretty cornflower blue shadow were all over the spring 2012 runways. "The key to getting it right is blending!" Bryl says. "When you add intense colors to the eyes, you must always blend and soften all the edges so that it doesn't look like the color is wearing you." A matching liner can help bring the entire look together, and Bryl also recommends pale lips to create a classier finish. (Try L'Oreal Infallible Eyeshadow in Infinite Sky, $7.99 at ULTA, or MAC Eye Shadow in Royale, $15 at Macy's)
Trend #3: Terracotta Cheeks
"One of my favorite looks," Bryl says, "Because it wears well on almost everyone and gives you that 'just returned from a relaxing sun vacation' vibe." For dry-skin-havers, a cream or shimmer product will create dimension, while those with oily skin should look for a matte formula to help combat greasiness. She recommends Revlon ColorStay Mineral Blush in Honey ($15.19 at Soap.com) or LORAC Baked Matte Satin Blush ($24 at Beautybar.com).
Trend #4: BB Cream
Since they combine elements of sunscreen, foundation, and skin-improving moisturizer, they're the perfect solution for days when full foundation is too much hassle (like the weekend), or for anyone with troubled skin who wants to cut down on products. Bryl advises caution, though. "It's an all-in-one product and does provide good coverage without being too heavy, but I would still suggest using your normal moisturizer or SPF underneath." Multi-purpose products are convenient, but they just don't contain the same strong moisturizers or sunscreens as the real deal. "Never think that just because there is a high SPF in any given product that you are truly getting the full benefits of a solid SPF." (Try Garnier Skin Renew Miracle Skin Perfector B.B. Cream, $12.99 at ULTA, or Clinique Age Defense BB Cream SPF 30, $37 at Clinique.com)
For several more beauty trends, visit DivineCaroline.
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