General Aesthetic (think a polished summer look):
* Focus: Natural, healthy-looking skin with a touch of color and shimmer.
Face:
* Foundation: Lightweight foundations or tinted moisturizers were popular. Think dewy, not matte. BB creams were also gaining traction. Look for a formula with SPF.
* Concealer: Use to cover blemishes and brighten under the eyes.
* Blush: Peachy or rosy shades were in for a sun-kissed glow. Cream blushes were popular for a natural finish.
* Bronzer: Use sparingly to contour and add warmth, especially for summer events.
* Highlighter: A subtle shimmer on the cheekbones and brow bone.
Eyes:
* Eyeshadow: Neutral shades were very popular. Browns, golds, creams, and bronzes. A wash of color or a soft smoky eye was common. Shimmer eyeshadows were favoured.
* Eyeliner: Brown or black eyeliner to define the eyes. A smudged liner look was often seen.
* Mascara: Volumizing mascara to make the lashes look full.
* Eyebrows: Well-groomed but natural-looking brows. Fill in sparse areas with a pencil or powder.
Lips:
* Lipstick/Lip Gloss: Nude, peach, pink, or coral lipsticks and glosses were popular. Sheer or semi-sheer formulas were favoured.
* Lip Liner: Use a lip liner that matches your lipstick to define your lips and prevent feathering.
Key Trends and Details:
* Glowing Skin: Dewy skin was a big trend. Achieving a hydrated and radiant complexion was key.
* Natural Brows: Fuller, but well-groomed eyebrows.
* Subtle Shimmer: Adding shimmer to the eyes, cheeks, and lips for a luminous look.
* Bronze & Peach Tones: These were essential for achieving a summery and sun-kissed appearance.
* Avoid: Heavy contouring, overly matte finishes, and very dark or dramatic colours.
Product Recommendations (Keep in mind these exact products may not be available, but the category and description are helpful):
* Foundation: Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer, MAC Face and Body Foundation
* Blush: NARS Orgasm, Benefit Benetint
* Bronzer: Benefit Hoola Bronzer, Guerlain Terracotta Bronzing Powder
* Eyeshadow: MAC Paint Pots (as a base), Urban Decay Naked Palette (the original was a big deal!), Maybelline Color Tattoo Cream Eyeshadows
* Lipstick: MAC Lipstick in "Cremesheen" finishes, Revlon Lip Butter
* Lip Gloss: MAC Lipglass, Lancome Juicy Tubes
Important Considerations:
* Skin Type: Choose products that are suitable for your skin type (oily, dry, combination).
* Climate: Consider the climate you live in. If it's hot and humid, opt for long-wearing and lightweight formulas.
Ultimately, the best makeup for August 2010 (or any time) is what makes you feel confident and beautiful. Have fun experimenting!