makeup

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photo: Lee Broomfield

Ombre is taking over the world! First in fashion (of course!), then with hair (with Kristin and Lauren at the forefront) and now in makeup (love it!).  But unlike fashion and hair, when you apply this concept to makeup, it’s not only about shading, but actually creates a 3-D effect. Which is an added bonus, making the lips look bigger.

Find two contrasting colors that are in the same family, such as:

• Red & Pink
• Red & Orange
• Orange & Pink
• Purple & Pink
• Purple & Red
• Wine & Red
• Burgundy & Red

Fill in the entire lip with the darker shade. To be clear, this is not the 90’s look of a dark lip liner. You must fill in the entire lip.  Matte finishes work best, so try a matte lipstick or a lipliner. As with any time you use a matte finish, be sure your lips are in the best condition possible and not chapped or scaly (try our lip scrub recipes here).

Then add the pop of color in the center of the lip with the lighter shade. You can use a lip brush or my favorite tool, your finger.  I prefer a matte finish in the lighter shade as well, but you absolutely can use a shimmer or slightly metallic finish (which actually will add even more dimension and make your lips look even bigger).

Here’s a perfect example of this look from Mui Mui’s Fall Ready-To-Wear runway show:

photo: wire image/Mui Mui

And remember whenever you make a bold lip statement, keep the rest of your makeup lowkey as not to compete. Obviously this look is for the adventurous, but you can still apply the concept of adding light to the center of your lips for dimension and a fuller effect.

And please tweet us pictures!!

XO Amy Nadine