Archives for May 2010

Earlier this week MBB reader Jessimae asked what I thought was a great question in the comments on Fiona’s guest post titled Office Makeup: How to Look Polished and Professional at Work.

“Hey Karen,

Could you do one of these for browner girls? Many of the shades… would contrast with my skin tone.”

Hi, Jessimae. Let’s see… Ultimately, it depends on what’s considered appropriate for your workplace and what you feel comfortable wearing, but here’s an idea for a conservative look based on neutral colors I’ll sometimes wear (for reference, I’m an NC35).

A neutral look

For the eyes, I might combine two or three neutral MAC eyeshadows like Arena, Shroom, Soft Brown, Woodwinked, Saddle, Sable, Cork, Brown Script or Soba. I think all of them look fab on darker skin and work well together, which means not having to think too hard or work too fast in the morning.

Then, I’d line the eyes with either a brown or black liner (I’m a fan of the MAC Technakohls in Graphblack and Brownborder) followed by two coats of mascara.

For the lips and cheeks, I see NARS Highlighting/Bronzing Blush Duo in Orgasm/Laguna working well. I’d sweep Orgasm Blush on the cheeks and then contour with Laguna Bronzer.

To complete the look, I’d go with NARS Dolce Vita Lipstick, a sheer dusty rose.

Do you have any ideas for Jessimae? I bet you do. 🙂 To share, just copy the following list, and paste it with your ideas in the comments.

What’s a good office makeup look for brown girls?

Your skin color:
Skin type:
Hair color:
Eye color:
Age (optional):
Recommended eye color(s) and why:
Recommended cheek color(s) and why:
Recommended lip color(s):

Your friendly neighborhood beauty addict,

Karen