Women LOVE makeup. It’s something that many can’t get enough of. I know people that could spend an entire day at the various makeup counters in a store, learning about new products and testing them. Yes, an entire day. A favorite pastime of many is getting their makeup done – whether it be for an event, a wedding, or even just for fun on a Saturday afternoon. Michelle Coursey, NYC based celebrity and editorial makeup artist, has given me a deeper look into the world of makeup.
makeup counter at Barneys New York
I first asked her what the most commonly asked questions were that she has gotten in her career.
1. How many brushes do I need? She said 6-7 solid brushes. One’s finger and a Q-Tip can only do so much. You need a good eye brush (even 3 or 4), a blush brush, bronzer brush, lip brush, and a good concealer brush.
2. Do I need to use an eyelash curler? She said YES, unless you are the 1% of women who have naturally curled lashes (she has only seen this 2 or 3 times in her career). You need to use a lash curler, and even if you don’t want to wear mascara one day, still curl your eyelashes.
3. How do I choose the right foundation or concealer? Do I have to wear it? She said it’s very helpful (unless, again, you are part of the small percentage who have perfect and amazing skin). At the very least, use concealer (it covers up redness or under eye circles). There are so many options out there for different textures, weights, colors. Find the perfect one. It can be a process of elimination. As well, most drug stores and makeoup counters have good return policies if you end up not liking it so much.
a beautifully ‘concealed’ face, makeup done by Michelle
Copyright David Byun 2011
I then asked her what the big makeup trends for the spring are.
She said strong eyeliner, strong brows (thick, filled in with pencil or eyeshadow, if need be), a bright pop of color on the eyes (blue streak of eyeliner, a shade of orange eyeshadow, for example). It’s fun and fresh. And, finally, metallic and glittery eyes (more extreme on the runway, of course). Be careful with this one; it should be done in moderation.
I asked what her favorite makeup items are and what are the essentials that every girl should have in their makeup drawer.
She said one has to have a good concealer, mascara, and blush – those 3 things are most important. If you walk out of the house, at the least, put on those 3 items.
Her favorite concealer is Laura Mercier’s Secret Camouflage.
She loves mascara and actually can’t get enough of it. She loves Maybelline Falsies. When she wears this one, she constantly gets asked if she’s wearing false eyelashes. She loves drugstore mascaras.
For blush – she feels women underestimate the power of a little bit of color on the cheeks. It livens up the face, makes you look younger and prettier. She said, of course, powder is easier than cream, but any kind that has enough pigment is good. She loves Nars and MAC for blush. A good blush is important and it can last a long time.
For foundation she likes Teint Miracle by Lancome. It’s a really good foundation, light to medium coverage, and creates a natural glow. When she wears it she gets compliments on her skin every time. It’s worth the investment!
On a final note, Michelle said that in her career she’s noticed that women can be scared of makeup and of looking too done up. While this is understandable, she said to not be scared. Makeup should be so much fun! Do what you’re comfortable with.
Check out Michelle’s website Michelle Coursey and her Facebook page here.