1. face: In addition to concealer, a touch of foundation is a concession to formality, as ties are to men. There's no need to go overboard, however, light coverage will do, such as MAC Face & Body Foundation, Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer, or my personal favorite, Caron Poudre Peau Fine. A lighter application of blush for a more professional setting, a heavier flush for a romantic look. It is a function of balance; I wear less on the eyes and more on the lips, so I prefer stronger blush.


2. classic eyes: Perhaps this is where the "medium intensity" is most visible. With natural makeup, you err on the side of the absolutely essential in terms of enhancement: defined brows (but of course), intensified lashline (I like a combination of L'Oréal Carbon Black Voluminous plus L'Oréal HIP black gel liner to tightline), and perhaps a wash of fleshtone shimmer. None of it really looks like makeup, just more structure, more lashes, more light, respectively. Polished makeup merely builds on this by adding a soft, neutral wash (or, well-blended pigment in the crease) and thicker, smudgier eyeliner.


3. berry lipstick: There's no real necessity to foundation or eyeshadow. Forgo them, and no demon will drag you down into the pits of hell. Just think of it as turning the volume up a notch. Likewise, there's no harm in wearing a rosewood YLBB, but put berry lips into your consideration, not so bold as red but richer than pinks.

Labels: caron, cover girl, kevyn aucoin, l'oreal, laura mercier, lipstick queen, lookbook, mac cosmetics, nars, shu uemura