Get the Look

Just because Portlander Nicole Costello wasn’t going for traditional didn’t mean she wouldn’t be a blushing bride. Both she and freelance bridal makeup artist Nicole Wagner were inspired by the gorgeous silvery-lilac Vera Wang gown she’d wear for her October 24, 2009, wedding at Portland’s West End Theater. The result was a heavenly look featuring smoky earth hues that highlighted both the dress and Nicole's elegant style. Like what you see? Wagner shares her tips and MAC Cosmetics product picks:

EYES: Start with a base of nude cream shadow (Paint Pot in Painterly) from lashline to brow, then highlight the browbone and inner corner with a loose soft white shimmery shadow (Pigment in Vanilla). Next, swirl your brush in a matte beige shadow (Eye Shadow in Wedge), tap off the excess, and apply lightly in the crease, corner to corner, in a windshield wiper motion. Blend the two colors, then cover the lid (except the inner corner) with a slightly darker, metallic taupe shadow (Eye Shadow in Satin Taupe). Use a black liquid liner for a dramatic look (Fluidline in Blacktrack), or pencil for a softer effect. Tip: Look down at a mirror and fill in the roots of your upper lashline for the instant illusion of thicker, fuller lashes and a more defined eye. Finish with waterproof mascara. (After concealer, use Satin Taupe again along your lower lashes and finish with light mascara.)

SKIN: Apply a liquid foundation (Studio Fix Fluid) in a circular motion with a fluffy brush, then use a sponge-tip liquid concealer (Select Moisturecover) under the eyes. (If you struggle with particularly dark undereye circles, Nicole suggests Cinema Secrets Foundation Palette #1). Set the look with a loose powder (). Nicole used MAC contour powder in to highlight the bride’s forehead, bridge of her nose, and upper cheekbones, finishing with light shimmery powder (Vanilla pigment powder) and a soft rosy pink blush () on her cheeks.