It’s my favorite time of the year! The countdown to carnival is on, and that means parties, shows and Mas' camp launches and lots of picture taking, so of course we women will try to look our best. For many of us this involves some attempt at makeup application. I often see women walking the streets beautifully made up - whether it‘s a natural and understated daytime look, or bold and glamorous for night - and I wonder (sometimes aloud) where they learned about cosmetics.

Situated just off the corner of Market and Redcliffe Streets, I found the answer. Brontѐ Potter is the in-house makeup artist at Evolution, a popular cosmetics and accessories store, and she was kind enough to help me crack the makeup code.

I confessed that I really love makeup but was actually a little scared of it, spending more money than I would like to admit buying eyeshadows and blush in fabulous colors after a professional application, but at home becoming a coward and never trying to apply it myself.

Brontѐ laughed saying this was a familiar story.  She grew up around makeup but never really had a keen interest until she was an adult. Evolution, a Potter family business was established in 2004.  Brontѐ saw the need for a professional on hand to answer client questions, and she became a certified makeup artist.

Being a ”recessionista” myself, my first question was about cost:
Should women spend lots of money on makeup?
No. Brontѐ advised that the only products she would recommend higher priced options were for foundation and powder, simply because these products provide the base for the face. It is very important to get the right shades and blends for your complexion and skin type. Everything else can be more reasonably priced.
 
What are the steps to a great face?
Healthy skin is the best start to a fabulous face. Everyone should have a skin care regime that includes twice daily cleansing, applying a toner or astringent and moisturising, and don’t forget to include your neck.
 
Foundation is next and comes in crème, liquid, and crème-to-powder forms.  The best way to apply foundation is with a damp sponge in a thin layer all over the face. A thicker layer can be applied in trouble area to cover imperfections.
 
Powder follows next to set the foundation and provides a clean canvas for the overall look.
 
Don’t forget the eyes. For daytime, two colours are sufficient, and more drama is okay for the evening.  The key to blending is experimenting and practicing. Have fun and be adventurous.  Mascara and eyeliners make a big impact and add drama to any look, favourites include black and dark brown.
 
The final step is your lips: gloss, tinted balms, lipstick and lip liners (avoid black). Favourites are clear and translucent glosses and bright red lips, it all depends on what makes you comfortable.
 
Brontѐ mentioned that tools and correct lighting are also key in makeup application. Flourescent lighting is closest to natural light and is the best for makeup application. Brushes and sponges should be cleaned regularly to prevent infection - regular shampoo does the job.
 
Can mascara actually make that much of a difference or are fake eyelashes the best bet?
Brontѐ recommends volumising mascara, which can sometimes be costly, as they do indeed add length and volume to eyelashes. False eyelashes are a good alternative. For more realistic effects, the glue-on strip eyelashes are the better option. Tip: cut the strip in two and apply each half to the inner and outer corners of the eye.  This should make application much easier and greatly reduce the chances of digging yourself in the eye.
 
Any tips for the upcoming season?
Brontѐ encourages everyone to be adventurous and try new colours and shades. Summer trends include bold bright lips in orange and red. Try purple or navy blue mascara for a new twist on your everyday look. In general, try something new and keep practicing.

***

Contact Bronte Potter at Evolution, 725-3565 for more info on how to look your very best.