occasioninspired make-up

The holiday season calls for a new look: think luminous cheekbones, smoky eyes and brightcoloured lips. Here, Maye Musk showcases glamour anyone can embrace, says Stefani Zupanoska.

Utter radiance

A subtle highlight can deliver striking results in the youthful shimmer stakes, however the trick is to be precise and sparing. “Take a light-handed approach to sweep highlighter across the high parts of the face and cheekbones, avoiding the inner-eye area”, says make-up artist Annette McKenzie. “This is where you want to bounce light off from the face.” In terms of formula and finish on your highlighter, Annette suggests avoiding dry texture products, as they are less forgiving on mature skin. Instead, opt for liquid or cream products, as these formulas are less likely to accentuate fine lines or uneven textures, but rather add radiance and luminosity to the skin.

Strong lips

Make a bold-coloured lippie your go-to colour this summer. Annette suggests using matte textures, as these formulas last longer and don’t run easily with wear. For mature lips, applying a lip liner before your lipstick is the Holy Grail. Annette advises following this easy technique: start by priming your lips with a lip conditioner then outline your mouth with a lip liner, making sure it’s tight to the lips and painted in at the corners, before filling in with lipstick. For a foolproof finish, dip a cotton swab in a translucent powder and roll outside the lip line to stabilise movement and prevent bleeding around your mouth.

Smoke & mirrors

A smoky eye can be as subtle or prominent as you like. The key is to choose flattering darker pigments and apply using plenty of blending. Annette advises using an eye primer before applying; its assurance your smoky eye won’t fade or smudge. For mature skin matte textures are best. “Avoid cream or shimmery eyeshades, as these tend to settle into the creases in your eyelids”, says Annette. Warm browns and muted greys work brilliantly on all skin tones. Apply a lighter shade on the lid, followed by a medium tone throughout the crease. Conclude by outlining the lash line of your eyelid with black or brown eye pencil and smear with a cotton swab, then blend.

Fresh-faced

When it comes to mature skin, prepping the complexion before applying your foundation is a game changer. Annette recommends always applying a primer before your foundation, particularly for women with enlarged pores or uneven skin tones. Generally, we tend to lose colour in our faces as we age so there is an impulse to stack on foundation, however heavy foundation only amplifies lines and wrinkles, Annette explains.

“Try using a lightweight foundation and then apply a concealer in certain areas for greater coverage”, she instructs. A brightening concealer is suitable for the under eye area and a richer formula is best when trying to hide age spots and achieve a full coverage finish.