About Face

When Michelle Edwards isn't teaching her high school journalism students to put their best face forward, she's getting brides and models ready for their close-up.

Special-occasion cosmetics expert Michelle Edwards gives A*cute readers tried-and-true tips to making it with makeup.

Q: What’s the difference between daytime and nighttime makeup?

A: The difference between daytime and nighttime makeup is typically a more subtle versus dramatic approach. Often times, dramatic makeup may correlate with the intensity or amount of makeup being applied or level of bold and courageous color choices.

Q: What are some universal color palettes that work in the office?

A: I like to stray away from the idea that most people can wear and look good in the same basic colors. Makeup should always be considered on an individual basis that regards skin tone, complexion and season. However, warm colors–shades of beige, brown, nudes, and even subtle (not inappropriately shiny) coppers or golds look good on a variety of people.

Q: What do you think about red lipstick at work?

A: Be very careful with red lipstick at work. Makeup should be considered on an individual basis, but know your employer, clientele or audience when you consider things like red lipstick. There are many shades of red and may work well and apply to the standard of a “day look.”  However, red lipstick is usually bright and dramatic and unacceptable for the formal workplace. A good way of determining what’s appropriate is asking yourself if your job is comfortable with you being your vivacious self or would they rather you be a part of a team and blend in. If you’re in a career that celebrates fashion, makeup or music you can push the envelope a little more.

Q: What tips do you have for being bold, yet professional?

A: I think a good way of being bold yet professional is experimenting with something unique for your particular style. Bold can be buying the mascara that’ll make your lashes extra thick and long, or trying fun fresh colors on the eyes. Small things like dark green, purple or blue eyeliner help make a bold statement.

Q: What products do you recommend for the following skin types: oily, combination, dry?

A: Regardless of skin type, it’s important to invest in quality skin care products. Think of your makeup as being a member of a team for your skin. Makeup works on a team with your moisturizer, face wash/scrubs and other skincare routines. Most quality makeup brands have great products that categorize and cater for dry, oily or combination skin.

Q: How long can makeup survive in your makeup bag?

A: Depending on the season and how you care for your products, makeup can last anywhere from six weeks to six months in your purse. Mascara should be replaced every three months, while lipsticks may last up to years if they are properly cared for. I strongly advise keeping makeup somewhere stationary but if you must tote it around, ask yourself why. If it runs or wears off, invest in other products that may help it last longer like a base for your eye shadow or water proof eye liners and mascaras.

Q: What work-related events call for evening makeup?

A: Dinner with co-workers, formal events such as your holiday parties or galas and happy hours are all events that may call for evening makeup.

Q: What is your ultimate makeup no-no?

A: My ultimate makeup no-no is using products on your face that you hope can change what you have. For instance, wearing foundation to make you appear lighter or darker just makes you look foolish. Another makeup no-no for me would be using the stick that comes in many eye-shadow palettes. Invest in quality brushes, it’ll make a world of a difference!

Q: If you only had five minutes to do your makeup, what would your process be?

A: If you only have five minutes to do your makeup, you want to be careful so that it doesn’t look like a five-minute job. If you’re in a rush keep it simple. Mascara, lip gloss and blush should do the trick. (There are rules to blush: Unless your skin is perfect or newly kissed by the sun it requires foundation underneath it.)

Q: What basics should every professional woman carry in her purse?

A: A versatile lipstick/gloss and lip liner, waterproof mascara and eyeliner.