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Nude has earned a reputation as one of the hardest working cosmetic shades, complementing complexions while adding dimension – and it’s super easy to pull off once you know a few key tips.
“Nude make-up is not natural, no-make-up make-up – it’s more pale on the lips and slightly darker on the eyelids.”
Kerry Washington
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Gigi Hadid
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Jennifer Lopez
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LIPS
As Brigitte Bardot and Jennifer Lopez have shown, a nude pout is both cool and classic.
Shade: “Look at your lips and go one shade lighter,” suggests Estée Lauder global make-up artist Victor Henao. “Those with fair skin, keep in mind that lips are not really pink; for tanned or darker skin, veer toward orange nudes.”
Finish: “Some matt nudes read dark and dirty, so look for one that’s clean and bright. Satin is very wearable, and glossy is beautiful when you have shine elsewhere on the face,” says Henao.
Everything else: “Anything goes as long as skin looks like skin. Be aware of how much foundation you’re applying and don’t go too matt,” he says.
EYES
Earthy tones will take you from work to weekend, and from your 20s to your 50s.
Shade: “Go one shade darker than the natural colour of your eyelids,” advises Henao. Try chocolates, caramels and taupes.
Finish: “It’s all about texture, so experiment with shimmer, gloss, satin, velvet and matt,” says Henao. Remember that powders won’t settle into fine lines and creases.
Everything else: “Stay away from dark lip or cheek colours, or anything cool or ashy, and keep everything warm with bronzers and contouring colours,” suggests Henao.
For tips on how to find your most flattering nude nail polish, pick up the September 2016 issue of marie claire
