Summer Makeup Looks For Every Event
Summertime is the season that comes with a bevy of invites to different fun activities—everything from backyard soirees to the fanciest of formal events. Whether you’re munching on barbecue or sipping champagne, it’s a given that you’ll want to appear at your best. Summer makeup looks can be a bit tricky due to the logistics of hot, humid weather; but armed with a few tips and tricks, you can easily navigate beauty that’s appropriate for any occasion in the warmer months.
General Tips for Summer Stunners
No matter where you’re off to, here are a few pointers that will apply to any look you’re out to achieve during the summer months.
- The most important: Always begin with a base of sunscreen, as the sun sets later and later in summertime. Although you may not be out during the most dangerous period (12-2 p.m.), UV rays can still damage your skin.
- Pack blotting papers or tissues in your handbag; you’ll appreciate them to soak up sweaty shine that goes along with heat and humidity.
- Speaking of shine, you’ll want to cut down on moisturizer. If that’s not an option, at least try replacing your richer formulas with lighter serums.
- Whenever possible, stay in the shade to avoid sunburn and excessive sweating.
Going to a Summer Wedding?
Weddings in the warmer season often incorporate some form of the outdoors—if not entirely held alfresco, cocktail hour or even the reception can be found in a garden or other outdoor space. Prepare your makeup to hold up to the weather, from “I do” to the last dance.
- Apply primer after your sunscreen; it will help prevent sweat from ruining your makeup.
- If you use foundation, make sure to use an oil-free version with a matte finish.
- Set with powder, and tuck the compact in your purse for easy touch-ups.
- Finish with a powder blush in peach or pink for a romantic glow.
- Try liquid eyeliner, which resists sliding off in the heat. Liquid formulas also allow you to try a delicate cat eye, which is romantic and subtle.
- Choose a pale powder eye shadow, or one that highlights your eye color.
- Weddings are a time for food, drink, and lots of kisses. Therefore, lipstick can be tricky. Start with a base of natural colored lipliner all over the lips. Top with lipstick in a natural color, then seal with liquid sealer. Touch up with gloss if desired.
Going to a Pool Party?
You may fret that you’ll have to forgo makeup altogether when attending a swim party. No so; just follow the cardinal rule: Waterproof everything!
- Even the best foundation isn’t likely to survive. So, give your skin the day off, but don’t forget your sunscreen. Don’t worry, you’ll have a pretty glow from the heat and the water which will mitigate any complexion flaws.
- You can draw attention to your eyes and lips instead of skin. Brush brows and lashes for maximum definition, then apply waterproof mascara and wax pencil liner, in natural tones. Brown gives a youthful look.
- There are many brands of lipsticks in various price points that come in waterproof versions. Or, try a lip stain – a fantastic option as it won’t smear or run.
- A small amount of lip stain can also brighten up cheeks.
Going to an Evening Picnic?
Summer evenings are the most beautiful of the year! Match the magic of the warm twilight by choosing a light and pretty application of makeup that will both hold up to the heat and make you stand out in the dimmer light.
- You can skip foundation (and sunscreen, just this time, since it is evening) and use on-the-spot concealer to cover specific issues. Top with a light and sheer tinted moisturizer.
- Call attention to your eyes by lining the top lids with subtle pencil liner, and highlight with pale shadow.
- The heat may not be too intense in the evening, but humidity can strike at any hour of the day. Prepare for this by using waterproof mascara.
- Try a lip gloss in a bright summery color to perk up the entire look and provide a glowing focal point. Make sure to bring it along for touchups after your meal is over.
Going to a Drive-In Movie?
If you love to go bold with makeup, now is the time to do so. Pull out the stops for a stunning night-time look that will have your date struggling to keep his eyes and mind on the film!
- Remember: It’s dark at the movies, so even if you don’t usually like stronger makeup, it’s best to go a bit heavier.
- Fuller coverage foundation is an option for night, as is a swipe of bronzer along cheekbones and light contouring. Set with powder.
- Create a smoky eye by swiping bronze or copper shadow on lids, and dark brown along the lash line. Blend and set.
- Use a couple coats of black or dark brown mascara to make your eyes glow.
- Finish with a plum or neutral lipstick.
Enjoy your slate of warm-weather activities!