Contouring is a hot makeup trend for good reason. Although not always easy to master, this technique can dramatically enhance your best features. Contouring makeup creates the illusion of shadow, which helps to define areas like the cheekbones, eyes, and lips. It works so well, in fact, that many women are also using this method to provide a quick, surgery-free boost to their bust lines. Image above BEAUTY SCENE exclusive by Henrique Smith.
It might seem odd at first to think of using your beauty products on an area other than your face, but it’s your overall appearance that counts – and if you want to draw more attention to your curves without resorting to stuffing your bra, this is a great way to do it.
Here’s how to use this technique successfully:
1. Lay the Foundation
Be sure to apply your makeup while looking in a mirror – not looking downward at your own chest. That way, you’ll be seeing what others will see. This first step will look strange at first, but go with it – don’t make any judgments until you see the final result. You’ll need a matte powder that’s just a shade darker than your skin color and a shimmery bronzer that can highlight without looking unnatural. The first step is to draw a series of lines and curves with these products: a darker line down the middle of your chest to define your cleavage, and a curve at the top of each breast with a lighter curve of highlighter just underneath.
2. Be Strategic, and Don’t Overdo It
For this technique to work, it’s essential that you place your lines in just the right spots to create the illusion of volume and shadow. The three dark lines should converge right at the point of the “v” created by your bust line, and they should follow the natural curve at the top of each breast. Highlighting just below these curves draws light (and visual attention) to these areas and makes them appear more voluminous.
3. Blend, Blend, Blend
This augmentation is, in fact, “painted on” – but the last thing you want is for it to look that way. This is makeup that’s meant to be noticed, but not seen. Use a fan brush to blend the edges of each dark line so that they fade gradually in with your natural complexion. If they look too dark, you’ve either used too much, or chosen the wrong shade. If you feel that your look isn’t round enough, lightly brush on a little more highlighter until you achieve an appearance you’re confident showing off. Image above Denisa by Igor Cvoro for BEAUTY SCENE
It may take a few tries to get it just right, so don’t fret if you’re not satisfied with the results the first time around. Keep at it, and whether you’re sporting a tank top or a low-cut little black dress, you’ll have a technique that can give you a big confidence boost.
