I wish this were an actual line of makeup because I would have it all, however, in this post I am simply referring to the fabulous makeup of the ladies of Mad Men. The epitome of "classic", every girl is "Don-ning" the perfect cat eye, fresh face, slight rouge and red-oh-so-red lipstick. I'm in love with this style.
I want to reference this fantastic article interviewing the head makeup artist for Mad Men, as she gives away many of her secrets and reveals products that she uses.
Before I found that article however, I figured out a few tricks to get the vintage look accomplished, and it might save you a few pennies.
First, apply liquid foundation. It doesn't have to be a full-coverage or thick foundation, so a drugstore brand like L'Oreal True Match foundation will work perfectly. I highly recommend applying with a sponge to keep from caking on. Next, use a good matching loose powder and brush on lightly. It's key to use loose powder and not pressed powder to get the right effect. I'm a fan of Bare Minerals, but the idea is to blend the mix of liquid and powder to get a good canvas. Next, apply a creme blush. Creme blush is designed to give long lasting, smooth coverage, with just a touch of sheen that you don't get in powder blush without having the shimmery kind (that's a bit too much for this look). I use Revlon's Creme Blush in Berry Flirtatious. It just takes a little to get the look, and the good news is it's a very "buildable" cosmetic, so start with just a touch and go from there. Swipe a finishing powder if you'd like at this stage.
Next, the eyes! I recommend a cream base like MAC's Paint Pot in Painterly or Girl Friendly if you'd like just a touch of pink. The idea on the lid is to create a nearly seamless color to the rest of the face. You don't want the focus to be on the shadow, you want it on the delicate cat eye line that you'll create with a liquid eyeliner marker like NYX Felt Tip Liner (these are easier to use than traditional liquid liners). The key is to create the point first just lightly outside of the lash line and to line all the way to the end of your lash line closest to your nose. Don't be afraid to go a bit thick with this - its your dramatic statement!
The finishing touch is the lips! The key here is not to pick a shimmery, glossy or satin finish lipstick. These are more popular, so check it before you leave the store to make sure you've picked up something more matte finish red lipstick. Revlon, again, has the classic colors here that are perfect to finish your lips. I recommend Revlon Matte Lipstick in Really Red (if you're feeling bold), or In The Red.
That's it!! Have a great time creating this fabulous classic look inspired by the television show, Mad Men.
