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 (Select Sheer Loose). Nicole used MAC contour powder in Accentuate 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 (Coygirl) on her cheeks.
LIPS: Keep the lips pretty and kissable with a pale pink gloss (Plushglass in Ample Pink).
HAIR: Loose waves set off a feather hairpiece, like this from Bridal Couture (etsy.com/shop/bridalcouture).
