There were many looks to love at this year's Costume Institute Gala at the Metropolitan Museum, but we are especially smitten with the dark lips that we spotted on Camilla Belle. Take a cue from the actress and make a statement the next time you step out. Here’s how.
Opt for a matte face
Bold lips stand out best against a minimal complexion. Apply a thin layer of full-coverage foundation like Lancome Teint Idole Ultra 24H, but skip powder, which can make skin look chalky. Next, lightly contour your cheeks and jawline with bronzer. The contrast creates amazing angles and pronounced cheekbones.
Stick to a slick of black liner
Keep eyes simple. Apply a wisp of black liquid eyeliner across the top lash line (I love Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Liner in Blackest Black), and coat lashes with mascara. If you want to lightly accent your eyes, use a nude cream eyeliner like Nars Soft Touch Shadow Pencil in Goddess on your lower lash line and inner corners of the eyes.
Go for a deep Bordeaux
The best lipstick shade for this look isn’t too red, purple, or brown—it’s a beautiful blend of all three. Deeply pigmented, matte formulas like Nars Pure Matte Lipstick in Volga work best for making a bold statement. If you prefer a tamer look, opt for a gloss or sheer lipstick like Clinique’s Almost Lipstick in Black Honey.
Balance lips with bold brows
We're often told to only play up one feature at a time, but in this case, brows are a freebie. While you may not have a bold set like Camilla, you can easily define yours with a pencil. To ensure they last all night, set with a gel like Make Up For Ever's Brow Seal Transparent Gel.
What did you think of Camilla's look?
Image credit: NEW YORK, NY - MAY 07: Actress Camilla Belle attends the 'Schiaparelli And Prada: Impossible Conversations' Costume Institute Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 7, 2012 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images)
Laura Nadeau
May 14, 2012
I am obsessed with her eyebrows!