As a working mom, I wear makeup everyday, but due to time constraints, my makeup routine is pretty basic. Today, I’m thrilled that Selina has dropped by to guest post and share a few tips on how we should (and shouldn’t!) spruce up our makeup routine. Thanks Selina!
I once worked in an office with a woman whose daily makeup routine included over-the-top glittery eye shadow, colorful eyeliner, false lashes, fuchsia lipstick and entirely too much bronzer. She pretty much went full Oompa Loompa every day.
As a self-described cosmetic junkie, I can understand her enthusiasm. However, as a professional, I cringed whenever I passed her in the hallway. How were clients supposed to take her seriously when she looked like she traveled straight from the club to the office?
Office appropriate makeup might mean something slightly different to each woman, but all in all I think it should follow some general guidelines.
Budge-Proof and Long Lasting
I work ten hour days with few breaks. When I do have a few moments to spare for myself, the last thing I want to do is spend them reapplying my makeup. As such, my office-friendly makeup collection includes long wearing beauty products such as waterproof mascara and eyeliner as well as a primer to hold my eye shadow in place. A good moisturizer is also essential to keeping your foundation on your face and not on your phone.
Remember ladies, raccoon eyes are the enemy!
Nudes & Neutrals
When it comes to your color palette, nudes and neutrals are your best friend. A fresh faced, natural look conveys professionalism.
- Eye Shadow: Depending on your skin tone, choose beiges, taupes, mauves and browns.
- Eyeliner and Mascara: Soft blacks and browns.
- Blush: Anything subtle that gives just a hint of color.
- Lips: Peachy, pink or brown nudes. Stick to crème or matte finishes.
Cut Out the Glitz
I don’t mean to be unkind, but work is no place to test out your newest high-shine, neon lipstick. Don’t get me wrong; I love sparkle, shimmer, gloss and a bold smoky eye as much as the next girl. That being said, when I’m at the office, I want to look like a young professional, not a working-girl (if you get my drift).
For me, makeup has always been about fun. I love buying it, wearing it and writing about it. Every shade and finish has a proper time and place, but not all of them translate well to the office. Keep these few tips in mind, and you’ll look polished, professional and ready to meet the world head on.
Selina Torres lives and breathes makeup. She’s pretty sure that she eats it sometimes, too. When she’s not trolling the cosmetic stores, she enjoys reading, surfing and contemplating the glorious future of chocolate.
I agree, it’s important to project a professional and polished image at work. That includes make-up, clothing, language, etc. I always wear make-up to work, but it’s put on with a light hand. I’m usually in a rush in the morning so it’s typically just eyeliner, mascara, lipstick, and some powder.
I have a five minute beauty routine in the morning. It’s just enough to keep me from feeling naked, but not so much that it looks unnatural. Thanks for the comment, Olivia!
I always wear makeup for work too and try to keep it light. I would have loved to have seen some images with her tips.
Sorry for the lack of images, Becky!
As someone who’s job is a work at home mom, I have a hard time remembering to even open the makeup bag! I wish I could discipline myself to do it, though, because I do feel better when I have it on, except for when I get those raccoon eyes 🙂 And of course, going all out and full Ooompa Loompa. that made me LOL!
I used to work from home too. I considered it a ‘dressed up’ day if I got out of my pajamas. And makeup? Forget about it, lol!