HOW TO MASTER MAKEUP FOR THE OFFICE

One of the perks of working in digital publishing is being able to wear Christian Louboutins to the office one day and Chuck Taylors the next.

I realise the same isn’t true for those who work in corporate settings that adhere to a more traditional set of sartorial guidelines. That’s why I’m going to walk you through this season’s biggest style trends and how to translate them into your 9-to-5 wardrobe.

First things first: professional attire doesn’t have to be boring. A simple colour palette of white, black, grey and flesh coloured tones can work well for office wear. Choose a pencil skirt like this one by We Are Kindred and pair it back with a soft, white HVN x HAN tee while Christian Louboutin nude heels add an elegant touch.

Footwear and clothing silhouettes aside, one of the most important factors in assembling your work wardrobe is makeup.

Colour palettes, like peach and soft pink, create a touch of femininity that’s work-friendly while beauty trends like cat eyes add definition and strength.

To stop your makeup from melting in time for the 3 o’clock coffee run, apply a primer like Laura Mercier Oil Free Foundation Primer. A long-wearing foundation that offers medium coverage (try: Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation SPF 15) allows you to even out skin tone, cover any blemishes and mask any imperfections while still leaving a natural finish. Remember: a thick layer of foundation might be appropriate for a special event like a wedding but it’s not ideal for the office.

If extra coverage is required, go back in with a concealer like NARS Creamy Concealer to areas to prone to darkness such as under the eyes and around the nose.

Once you’ve applied your foundation, seal it with a dusting of MAC Prep + Prime Transparent Finishing Pressed Powder – this will stop any oil build-up mid-presentation.

Next, brows call for attention. Fill them in with a brow gel and angle brush using a gentle hand and short strokes.

Then, apply a natural eye shadow colour such as Bobbi Brown Eye Shadow in Taupe to give naked eyes a touch of sophistication. To make them stand out (without looking over the top), line upper lash lines with Urban Decay 24/7 Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner – this long-lasting formula will stay put even when eye lids sweat throughout the day. Coat lashes twice with black mascara.

Now, apply Bobbi Brown Cream Pot Rouge in Calypso Coral to the apples of cheeks. Bronzer, while excellent for contouring, isn’t necessary for the boardroom. Instead, a healthy glow can be created in seconds by applying highlighter to the upper cheekbones.

To finish, a hydrating lip colour that wears more like a balm than a lipstick is a must for the handbag. Try: Dior Addict Lip Glow Balm.

Tell me, do you like this makeup look for the office?

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