Whether you’re a new mom or a seasoned mama, you need to pay attention to your looks. No, we’re not being frivolous here. You have to like yourself to feel good about who you are. Following our beauty guide for Valentine’s Day—or any day—will help you remember that above all, you are a woman, and a strong, beautiful one at that. Following are some tips to pick your look and achieve it effortlessly, whether you are spending the night dining in with your honey while the baby sleeps or dining out at the finest restaurant.
NATURAL
Most moms define their styles as natural—but this shouldn’t mean careless or boring. Stick to neutrals and earthy hues with a twist. Adding a little shimmer here and there will make your features stand out without being too shocking.
Busy mamis can also get help from natural-looking fake eyelashes, bronzing powders to define cheekbones (and décolletage!) and brow gels to fill in sparse eyebrows. Believe it or not, paying attention to these particular areas will highlight your face, even if you don’t apply any other kind of makeup.
Read Related: From Soccer Mom to Evening Diva
Whether your hair is curly or straight, a flat iron is always a good idea to tame your locks. Simply take a section of your hair at a time and let the straightener go through loosely. The idea is to get a wave(ish) look going.
Recommendations: mark Touch & Glow Warm Glow Palette ($16) • It Cosmetics Vitality Lip Flush Butter in Pillow ($20) • Benefit Cosmetics Brow Zings ($30) • Dior Diorskin Nude Tan Healthy Glow Enhancing Powder ($55) • John Frieda Frizz-Ease Sheer Solution Lightweight Frizz Control ($10)
SEXY
Getting that fierce look isn’t always easy when you have to take kids to school, cook dinner and do laundry, all right before your date night—but it’s definitely possible, ladies. By enhancing one feature with strong colors (say, lips or eyes) you’ll instantly feel revved up. Think this look might be too provocative? An utterly chic cat eye or a timeless red lipstick gives you the extra oomph you need without being excessive or overwhelming.
For hair, simply think big! Voluminous, luscious waves or sexy styled strands are easy to create with hot rollers, curlers and mousse. You can let the rollers set while you feed the kids!
Recommendations: Avon Totally Kissable Lipstick Smitten Red ($8) • Nars Cosmetics The Multiple 413 BLKR ($38) • Make Up For Ever Aqua Shadow Matte Black ($20) • Olay CC Cream ($24) • Redken Full Frame 07 Protective Volumizing Mousse ($16.50)
PLAYFUL
Then there’s the mom who loves to be ála moda, playing with trends and colors. Fearless chicks can opt for colorful eyeliners, neon lipsticks and anything sparkly.
While a bright shadow with glitter liner could make you feel like a beauty queen, your better-half could be turned off by the bling—so choose wisely. Finish with tons of black mascara or black rimmed eyeliner to balance the splash of colors.
If you’re as bold as your personality, try wearing big, flashy hair accessories. Vintage barrettes, chic scarves and gold-toned headbands are very trendy right now and will make you look polished, not to mention they will save you precious time to focus on your makeup!
Recommendations: Tom Ford Beauty Lip Color Aphrodisiac ($48) • Physicians Formula Shimmer Strips Liquid Eyeliners ($11.95) • 100% Pure Fruit Pigmented Lip Glaze Vixen ($15) • Laura Mercier Crème Eye Liner Cobalt ($22) • Goody Double Wear Collection (assorted prices and styles)
Now, kiss the kids goodnight, tuck them in and go unleash your inner diva….
Model images courtesy of beautypress.com.
