The Beauty Closet: Rocking the “Au Naturale” Look

There are tons of articles out there about how to do the latest smoky eye, or a look for that perfect night out. But what about the rest of the time, like going to class and doing everyday errands? While it’s perfectly fine to go out make-up free, here are some tips and products that are super low key and make you look fresh, dewy, and, well, make up free!
 

1. Start with a BB cream. I like to use Dr. Jart Water Fuse Beauty Balm SPF 25 PA++ ($34 at Sephora) as a base to even out skin tone. In case you haven’t caught on to the latest trends, BB creams act like a moisturizer, foundation, concealer, and some, like this one, even provide an SPF. I just use my finger to spread it on, which makes it quick and easy unlike most foundations. This one is pretty pricey, so you can also check out the Garnier BB Cream Skin Renew Miracle Skin Perfector ($13 at most drugstores).

2. For a little bit of color and glow, I like to use a blendable, brightening color to bring a little bit of glow to your cheeks. This is especially helpful for those days when you may have had a rough night before. I’m in love with this new product Fine-One-One, by Benefit Cosmetics ($30 at Sephora).

3. Now on to the eyes! Before putting on any eye shadow or eyeliner, it’s super important to use a primer to make that color last! Check out Too Faced Shadow Insurance Anti Crease Eyeshadow Primer ($13 on Amazon).

4. For as long as I can remember, the one eyeshadow I almost always wear to class has been Stila Eyeshadow in Kitten ($18 at Sephora).  This shimmery nude pink looks great on any eye color, and the subtle glitter makes your lids pop without being too showy.

5. Time to line those lids with some eyeliner! I like to do just a little bit on the top and save the bottoms for when I’m doing a smoky eye. Since I have brown eyes, I prefer to use black but those with lighter colored eyes may prefer to use brown. I’ve found that Bare Escentuals Bareminerals Big & Bright Eyeliner Intense Black ($14 on Amazon) is the best brand for non smudging.

6. Even though we’re rocking the au natural look, I find that I have to borrow one thing from the smoky eye look and that’s the big eyelashes. I find that no matter what my look is, long, fluttery eyelashes always bring it together. I recently discovered Benefit’s They’re Real! Mascara ($23 on Amazon) works really well to deliver that lengthy, non-clumpy effect.

7. And last but not least, finish off with a nude lip balm that will keep your lips moist for hours. Try Macaroon Lip Balm in Strawberry ($5 at Urban Outfitters). It has just the right amount of sparkle to add some attention to your pout.

And there you have it! Just 7 easy steps to getting that perfect natural look to look good in class without going overboard. Sometimes all it takes is 5 extra minutes to look flawless and fresh. So try not to hit snooze that third time and see how many people ask if you’re ACTUALLY wearing make up.

PHOTO CREDIT:

Amazon.com

Sephora.com