Prom 2008 Hair and Makeup

Spring marks the beginning of prom and wedding season so you can be sure prom girls and brides-to-be are scurrying about trying to find the perfect dress, perfect hair style and perfect makeup look. Whatever the occasion you want to be sure you still look like you but a better version of you!

Prom makeup is always fun because you can afford to bend the "rules" of makeup. This is the perfect opportunity to break out of the "norm" and try bright pops of colour, fake lashes, and lots of shimmer. However, you want to avoid looking over-the-top which is why it's important to keep the focus on one area of the face. Take a cue from Red Carpet beauties because they always look picture perfect and this is where you'll find the latest beauty trends for the season. You'll see everything from Old Hollywood to bright lips to sultry eyes. It's all about enhancing your natural beauty by adding a bit of glitz and glam. Here are some hot beauty trends to try (or have your makeup artist try) that will transform you from school girl to prom queen!


1. Flawless skin: Since acne and break-outs are common among teenagers, taking care of the skin is the most important. Make sure you cleanse and moisturize your skin every night. Use a primer that is silicone based before applying your makeup. This will keep your makeup on longer and help your makeup blend better. Selecting a foundation that is close to your skin tone is key. Do a swatch test near your jaw line to find your perfect fit. Try not to pile on the foundation and only apply in areas that need evening out. Use creamier concealers to hide blemishes by applying right on top, blending around the edges. Powder is your best friend. This will set your makeup and take away shine which is important for pictures.

Compliment flawless skin with shimmery shadows in champagnes, golds, silvers, bronze, soft pinks, or lilacs. Give your eyes an Old Hollywood feel by winging out liquid liner and adding some false lashes. Apply a rosy blush to your cheeks and highlight cheekbones with a shimmery powder. Go bold with red lips or soft with a pink or peach gloss. This is one look that won't make you look back and say, "What was I thinking??". It's a polished, sophisticated and easy look to recreate!


2. The ever-popular Smoky Eye: I love the smoky eye because it can be done so many different ways and with many different colours. Black and charcoal greys are a popular choice, but don't be afraid to try deep purples, emerald greens, or deep blues. Bronze and coppers mixed with chocolate browns are also beautiful. Use a bit of bronzer to sculpt the cheeks and dust a neutral blush over top. Keep the lips soft with a nudes or pale pinks. Smoky eyes are sexy and can glam up any outfit.


3. Pops of Colour: Using bold or bright colours are great ways to have fun with your look. Even bright colours can be wearable and look timeless when done appropriately. Choose one area of the face to add colour to and keep everything else natural. Go for turquoise, cobalt blues, bright purples, corals, and oranges on the eyes in sheer textures. Add a pop of colour to a smoky eye by applying the colour to the inner corner of the eye. Or keep the eyes soft and add a bright fuchsia, orange, or coral to the lips.

If you want a bold colour on your eye but think a shadow is too much, try glitter pencils. The colour is still noticeable but definitely more subtle. The glitter is not offending and the little sparkle will make your eyes light up. If you're wearing a colourful dress it doesn't mean you have to match your makeup. General rule: if you're wearing a brightly coloured dress let that be the focus and keep your makeup neutral.


Hair Trends: Up-do's with tight curls can look out-dated and make you look older. Keep it young and fresh with soft wavy curls. If your dress calls for your hair up, slick it back into a sleek pony tail instead.

Remember to have fun with your look and glam it up! After all, you only have your prom once! Stay tuned for Part 2 featuring beautiful bridal looks and tips!