Prom beauty doesn’t have to mean excessive body glitter, tight Goldilocks curls and frosted eye shadow. But before you run to the beauty counter looking for that perfect prom pink lipstick, check out our guide on what to choose (and not choose) to keep you looking fun, fresh and, best of all, fabulous for prom.
[all that glitters]
>> MAKE UP FOR EVER Glitters
Contrary to popular belief, it’s OK to rock glitter on prom night—just don’t go overboard. MAKE UP FOR EVER glitters are perfect body glitters that provide just enough sparkle without leaving you looking like a disco ball. Available in 13 shades, Glitters can be used on face and body to achieve an odorless, non-sticky sparkle that won’t leave behind any residue, on either you or your date’s tuxedo.
Sephora, $15
[sun-kissed skin]
>> Nars Matte Multiple
When it comes to achieving a healthy glow, staying out of the sun and harmful tanning beds is your best bet for avoiding wrinkles, bad tan lines and melanoma. But that doesn’t mean you can’t look like a golden goddess on your big night. Nars’ Matte Multiple is a great sheer alternative to traditional bronzers that doubles as a lip color. Available in seven shades, ‘Altai’ has hints of pink, perfect for most complexions, especially oil-prone skin. Use Altai as a base color for your lips or wear it alone for a natural look. No matter which shade of Matte Multiple you choose, you’ll have a glowing complexion all night long.
Fine department stores, $39
[haute hair]
>> Km2 Heather Headband
Whether you opt for an updo or full-on blow out, adding a little sparkle to your hair is a prom must, and I’m not talking about tiaras. KM2 is a local brand that creates beautifully handmade headbands and sashes, perfect for putting the final touch on your prom look. The ‘Heather’ band doubles as a belt, letting you stylishly use a piece of your prom long after the night has ended.
Cha Boutique, $140
[luscious lips]
>> Marc Jacobs Lovemarc Matte Lip Gel
You can brighten lips without overwhelming your beauty look. Marc Jacobs’ Matte Lip Gel in Scandal and Gossip are two attention-getting colors that will leave your lips as soft as they are bright. For those with olive-tone skin, Scandal is a great red-orange hue; Gossip’s purple-pink tones work best with lighter complexions. The gel-base lip color leaves lips with a velvety matte finish perfect for prom pictures, both candid and posed.
Sephora, $30
[nail it]
>> Essie Sleek Sticks
Prom may be the best excuse to indulge in nail art. Essie’s Sleek Sticks offer an easy at-home method of achieving professional nail art without busting your budget. Choose one of 10 distinct nail designs, apply the durable sticker-like Sleek Stick to your nail, fold the remaining appliqué (making sure the appliqué is tightly molded to your nail) and file in a downward motion. Cut any corners with a nail trimmer to ensure the appliqué is completely shaped to your nail. You’re left with playful yet professional-looking nails that are a far cry from most stick-on designs.
essie.com, $10.25
By Marylyn Simpson
Photo by Bill Barrett