What makes Asian eyelids unique is the fact that most don’t have a crease on their upper lid. This “creaseless” lid means that eye makeup needs to be applied differently to say that of a Caucasian or European person.

The aim is to create depth in the eye, and to make the eye appear larger. This can be done a number of ways.

Sometimes, an illusion can be created by using a darker eyeshadow to create a “crease”. This darker line of shadow is placed so that when the eye is open, it is seen above the eye.

Alternatively, the shadow can be extended above the would-be crease in stages, to make the eye appear larger. The bottom of the lid closest to the eye is the darker colour, above is a medium colour, and above that (extending above the ‘crease’) is the lightest shade. This is often said to be the best way to apply shadow to an Asian eye.

In addition, the dark shadowed corners of the eye can be extended higher than normal to make the eye appear larger and rounder. A small amount of the dark shadow can also be applied to the lower outer corner of the eye for that ’smokey’ look. In this instance, apply a highlight colour to the brow bone (like cream or off white).

This can be demonstrated in the following photographs of Anne:

Let’s also take a look at a gorgeous famous Asian Face – Lucy Liu.

You can see here that liner under the eye is kept to a minimum. With Asian eyes you should avoid heavy dark liner under the eye as it makes the eye appear smaller. To create the illusion that the eye is larger, use a lighter shadow in the inner corners and under the eye.

Natural hues look best on Asian eyes, although bright funky colours can also look great. Shimmery bronzes, browns and golds are also a great choice.

Commonly, Asian eyelashes are straight, so it’s important to curl them with an eyelash curler before applying a generous amount of mascara. A heated curler would give best results. Or, go that extra mile and apply some false lashes to complete that glamorous look!

A good rule is not to use a heavy pencil or shadow to colour in the eyebrows. Use a light shadow, close to the actual colour of the brow hair. This will prevent the eyebrow from looking “drawn on”. Lucy Liu has done this beautifully (or should I say, her Makeup Artist has!)

Finally, a thick line of eyeliner on the top lid looks beautiful on Asian eyes. Liquid eyeliner, particularly, can give that ‘cat eye’ look by lifting the lid and defining the curve of the eye.

I will leave you with a couple of photos of a client, Joy – who had a gorgeous natural look on her wedding day.

Rebekah Foxe

Sydney Makeup Artist
Makeup Artistry by Rebekah
www.makeupbyrebekah.com.au
Have a question you would like to ask Bek?? email Bek at – rebekah@beyondthebride.com.au

It’s no secret that I like to shop. And it’s definitely no secret that I like to buy cosmetics… You only need to look at my makeup kit to see I am a cosmetic addict! But makeup can be very expensive, especially when you love a product and want it in every colour available!

Thankfully, I get the privilege of purchasing makeup through makeup suppliers/wholesalers who deal exclusively with Makeup Artists. However, I do purchase cosmetics through ordinary discount online stores quite a fair bit (I am addicted to online shopping, too) and I thought I would share some of my favourite websites!!!

I’ve been a fan of STRAWBERRY NET for years now – http://au.strawberrynet.com/main.aspx

Strawberry Net are the world’s leading provider of discounted designer skin care, make-up, cosmetics, perfume, fragrances, cologne and hair care. They have the largest supply of products from top brands such as Lancome Skincare, Christian Dior Makeup, MAC cosmetics, Estee Lauder Skincare, Stila makeup, and Calvin Klein Perfume.

What is so good about this site is that shipping is FREE to anywhere in the world!! Cosmetics are heavily discounted and you get a free gift with most of your orders. Yes, sometimes the makeup comes without the box, but it’s worth it when you’re saving 30% off the RRP!

For example, my favourite mascara (Chanel Inimitable) is currently selling for $40.50 when it retails for $51 at Myer – quite a saving!

Another great online cosmetics discount outlet is SMART POPPY – http://www.smartpoppy.com.au/

This site stocks popular brands like Bobbi Brown, MAC, Lancome, and Stila – again, heavily discounted – their aim is to sell cosmetics for half their RRP!! Again, the product packaging may be damaged, but worth it when you consider the savings.

Their “From $5″ clearance section is especially cool – with items such as Bobbi Brown lipsticks which normally retail for $50 on sale for $19! Delivery is free for orders over $85 and they even have a 30 day money back guarantee.

Another website is THE BEAUTY CLUB – http://www.thebeautyclub.com.au/

This site stocks 100% genuine high end brands like Clinique, Chanel, Christian Dior, and YSL at discounted prices. Shipping and gift wrapping is FREE!

You might even be surprised how cheap some of their products are – for example, the Chanel Inimitable Mascara on this website is for sale for $38.10 (even cheaper than Strawberry Net!) In fact, The Beauty Club actually guarantees to be 10-20% cheaper than Strawberry Net!!! Sure, their range isn’t as vast as Strawberry Net, but the items they do stock are definitely cheaper. They also offer a money back guarantee.

The downside is you have to join and become a member, paying an annual membership fee of $55. Having said that though, the benefits of being a member are great – you get at least 3 free products a year, and a whole array of other benefits.

Happy shopping!

Rebekah Foxe

Sydney Makeup Artist
Makeup Artistry by Rebekah
www.makeupbyrebekah.com.au
Have a question you would like to ask Bek?? email Bek at – rebekah@beyondthebride.com.au

I find it really hard to part with my makeup. There are some items I just love, and want to continue using it until it’s empty. But the truth of the matter is, all makeup has an expiry date and this expiration date should be adhered to. So even though it might upset you to throw away your favourite Chanel Mascara or YSL Foundation, it’s best to get rid of it if it’s past it’s “used by date” and replace it with a fresh, new product. What better excuse to indulge in some new cosmetic purchases???

So the question is often asked, how long should I keep my cosmetics before I throw them out. Well the answer isn’t that simple, as it depends on the product. Some products have a longer life than others.. for instance, foundations outlive mascara.

It is also important to remember that sharing makeup should not be encouraged… this is not only unhygienic, but effects the longevity of your makeup. Remember, that contamination can occur at any time as makeup usually comes into contact with areas prone to germs, like your eyes and lips. Sharpen your pencils regularly to get rid of germs, and try not to double-dip into things like cream shadows and foundations. Store makeup in a dry, cool place, preferably away from the bathroom.

So how can you tell it’s time to throw away your makeup?

Generally, throw away any makeup that has a bad smell or has changed in consistency. Also, if you can’t remember when you bought it, it’s best to throw it out!!

Follow this general table as a guideline (NB: this is only a guide):

- Cleanser and Moisturisers – 6 months;
- Liquid Foundation – up to 12 months (but ensure you don’t insert your fingers into the bottle. Use an applicator or sponge instead, and wash them after every use). A tip is to write the date you opened the foundation on the bottom of the bottle in permanent marker… that way you’ll know exactly when to throw it out. To keep foundation fresh and to increase longevity, store it in the fridge;
- Creme or compact foundation – up to 18 months;
- Mascara – toss after 3 months. Mascara’s are notorious breeding grounds for bacteria;
- Stick products like concealer, blush sticks and lipsticks – 6-12 months. For hygiene (and therefore to increase longevity) don’t apply directly to lip or skin – use an applicator wand, wash after every use, and don’t double-dip!!;
- Powders, eyeshadows, non-stick concealers, blush, bronzers, lip gloss – up to 2 years;
- Lip liner and eyeliner – 2 years (sharpen regularly);
- Liquid eyeliner – 3-6 months;
- Nail polish – 12 months.

It is also important to remember that if you are using natural cosmetics, they should be discarded sooner as they don’t contain the same preservatives as regular cosmetics.

Hope these tips help!!

Rebekah Foxe

Sydney Makeup Artist
Makeup Artistry by Rebekah
www.makeupbyrebekah.com.au
Have a question you would like to ask Bek?? email Bek at – rebekah@beyondthebride.com.au

Rebekah is a freelance and mobile Sydney Makeup Artist.

A lawyer and a mother, Rebekah left the legal world to focus on her passion of makeup. Qualified as a professional bridal, glamour and photographic makeup artist, Rebekah offers a professional service and uses only the highest quality professional products. She has trained with the professional school of makeup – Making Faces Makeup Studio in Sydney.

Rebekah is passionate about makeup and also about weddings. She came on board the Beyond the Bride team to share her knowledge of makeup and beauty products, as well as to hear and learn from others.

Enjoy Bek’s Beauty Blog!!

Rebekah Foxe

Sydney Makeup Artist
Makeup Artistry by Rebekah
www.makeupbyrebekah.com.au
Have a question you would like to ask Bek?? email Bek at – rebekah@beyondthebride.com.au

The majority of my clients are brides. Most of them come to me for beauty advice – how do I get rid of my pimples before the big day? How can I erase pigmentation? etc etc. But the most frequent enquiries relate to fake tanning – “To spray tan, or not to spray tan?: That is the question”.

I am not a lover of spray tanning, or any fake tan, to be honest. Unless it is done perfectly and through a highly reputable company, they can look very fake… often, exuding that orange hue…. it’s a tough task for a makeup artist trying to match an yellow coloured face to an orange decolletage!!!!

So when I try to convince the bride to “look herself on her wedding day” some indicate they just want to have that “sunkissed” look. Perhaps it’s the fact we live in the land down under and the “bronzed Aussie” skin is expected and admired? So my advice for those brides is to SHOP AROUND CAREFULLY. A spray tan gone wrong can have devastating effects on the way you look on your big day. Go with a reputable company, one that uses state of the art equipment. Always have a trial run a few months before your wedding, and try to attend your makeup trial “wearing” the skin colour you have in mind for your big day.

Follow the tips of the salon on how to look after your spray tan – tips like exfoliating before your spray tan appointment, waxing at least a day beforehand, and not showering for at least half a day after your spray tan application. There is a reason why they give you these tips – it’s to ensure that you get the most from your spray tanning session!!! You are paying decent money to get this tan, so do it properly!!!

For those brides who chose to go a la naturale, I commend them… the porcelain look is gorgeous, and pale skin has made a comeback. Some people even say that “Pale skin equals class”! You only need to look at celebrities like Nicole Kidman, Cate Blanchett and Natalie Portman – true alabaster beauties, whose look would be totally ruined if they were tanned.

Just think about this look – pale skin, soft smokey eyes, rosey blush, false long lashes, and glossy lips….

I will leave you with some photo’s of one of my favourite alabaster clients – “Pale beauties”…

Rebekah Foxe

Sydney Makeup Artist
Makeup Artistry by Rebekah
www.makeupbyrebekah.com.au
Have a question you would like to ask Bek?? email Bek at – rebekah@beyondthebride.com.au

My pet hate is when you see an advertisement for Mascara and the lashes on the model are gorgeous – they are full, long, dark, and sensual. You want those lashes, so you consider buying that mascara…. only you notice that in the fine print it states that the model is wearing false lashes!!!!!

It is so misleading. It basically makes you realise that you can’t get that look without wearing false lashes. And let’s face it – who has the time or patience to apply false lashes on a daily basis?

One way to get that full lashed look is by applying several coats of mascara (and make sure it’s a good quality mascara – my favourites are Chanel Inimitable and Maybelline Volum’ Express Turbo boost!).

When you apply your first coat, always use the tip of the mascara wand and sweep the TOP of your lashes with mascara – this will erase any eyeshadow that may have fallen on the top of your lashes. Remember, you want your lashes to be dark from every angle.

Next, apply the mascara in the normal fashion from the bottom of the lash near the lid, and extending out right to the tip, moving the wand from left to right at the same time.

Wait a few minutes for the mascara to dry (put your lipstick on while you’re waiting if you’re in a hurry).

Then, apply another coat. You will notice your lashes thicker immediately.

If it’s a special occasion, why not try applying false lashes to complete the look. They only take a minute, and a few to the outer corners of the eye will give that glamorous look without looking fake!

Here’s an example:

BEFORE

AFTER

Hope this tip helps!!

Rebekah Foxe

Sydney Makeup Artist
Makeup Artistry by Rebekah
www.makeupbyrebekah.com.au
Have a question you would like to ask Bek?? email Bek at – rebekah@beyondthebride.com.au

Dear Bek,

Could you tell me how I can safely remove mascara without having to use a harsh eye-makeup remover? I have very sensitive eyes and eye-makeup remover always aggravates them.

Thanks,
Mel.

Dear Mel,

Something that I have been using for YEARS is the best eye-makeup remover ever, and most people have it readily available in their homes: SORBOLENE CREAM!

Put a little bit of sorbolene cream on a makeup pad and use sweeping up and down motions over the eye to gently remove the eye makeup (keeping the eye closed and making sure the cream doesn’t enter the eye). It comes off as quickly and effectively as expensive eye-makeup removers!!! (and is a fraction of the cost).

Then wash your face as usual with your cleanser to remove all residue.

Good luck!!!

Rebekah Foxe

Sydney Makeup Artist
Makeup Artistry by Rebekah
www.makeupbyrebekah.com.au
Have a question you would like to ask Bek?? email Bek at – rebekah@beyondthebride.com.au

Your wedding day is the most important day of your life. Every bride wants to look and feel like a princess, and your makeup plays a very important role.

Makeup is important to your overall look on your wedding day. It is important when considering your photos – which you will have as a memory for the rest of your life.

Here is a TOP TEN list of what I believe are the most important things to consider when choosing your Makeup Artist (MUA):

1. Is he/she available exclusively on your wedding day? There’s no use getting involved if the MUA is already booked on your wedding day. I would also ask if he/she takes multiple bookings – you want someone who will be available for your wedding ONLY, and not have to rush to make another job afterwards. You want someone who is reliable and isn’t going to substitute herself with a colleague at the last minute.

2. Is he/she friendly, approachable and flexible? Personality is important. Your MUA will be with you for the majority of the morning that you are preparing for your wedding. You don’t want someone you can’t get along with. You want to have someone who is fun to be around, warm and friendly. Someone who is willing to go that extra step to make things run smoothly. Above all, you want someone who is not only passionate about makeup, but about weddings!

3. Does he/she use professional makeup? It is important that the MUA uses high quality products to ensure the makeup will stay on all day. You don’t want makeup that will fade and rub off in only a few hours. Your makeup has to last all day and night, often without touching up. Things like lipstick are expected to wear off (unless you’re not going to eat or kiss for 18 hours!!!) but other than touching up lipstick and a brief dab of powder to ward off perspiration, you shouldn’t have to re-apply anything. Waterproof makeup is so important, and is why I only use professional makeup like Atelier, Napoleon and MAC. This is why it’s a good idea to have your makeup trial in the morning or early afternoon before you go out for the evening – it’s the best test for staying power! If your makeup is still intact at 2am after a big night out, then it will definitely last on your wedding day!

4. Is he/she trained specifically in bridal and photographic makeup? You want a MUA whose main clientele are brides. Having a MUA who is trained in photographic makeup is a bonus as they know exactly how to highlight certain features so that they stand out in photographs (which will be with you forever). Wedding makeup is not just about how you look on the day, it is just as imperative that you look gorgeous in your photos.

5. Hygiene, hygiene, hygiene!!! This is probably one of the most important but most overlooked aspect of makeup artistry. At your makeup trial, take note of how your MUA applies your makeup. It is so important that disposable mascara wands are used. Mascara wands are a haven for bacteria, and you don’t want to be given conjunctivitis or any other nasty illness because your MUA hasn’t bothered to use a disposable wand.

Check that he/she isn’t “double-dipping” without first sterilising the brush. You don’t want your liquid eyeliner to be applied after the brush has been used on someone elses eyes. This is why I use a strong brush cleaner between clients – so strong that the brush dries within about 5 seconds. It takes a little more time, but at least I know my clients are being treated with sterile equipment.

Check that the makeup doesn’t go straight from palette to face. I use an intermediary – a tile – whereby the foundation or concealer is placed onto the tile, then from the tile to the face. The tile is sterilised between clients.

Also check that foundation sponges are not recycled, and that lipstick is NEVER applied directly from the stick but from stick to tile, then tile to face using a lip brush (which is sterilised between clients). The last thing you want is a cold sore on your wedding day!

6. Is your makeup artist listening to you? Even though MUA’s are trained professionals, the client comes first. It is important that your MUA takes on board your needs and wants, as well as offering their opinion. A pushy know-it-all MUA is not recommended. However, it is also important that the client is flexible enough to take on board the advice of the MUA.

This is why a trial is so important – it’s an opportunity to openly discuss your needs and wants. A good makeup artist will not leave the trial with an unsatisfied client. I always make sure the client is happy with the result, even if it means staying a few hours, and trying a few different styles. You want to know exactly what you will look like on your wedding day.

7. Is your makeup artist asking questions about your wedding day? It is important for MUA’s to know what the colour and style is of the dress you are wearing, as well as your bridesmaids dresses, flowers, theme of the wedding, venue, etc. This will help to decide on what makeup would suit your theme.

8. Is your Makeup Artist a professional? You don’t want a MUA who does makeup only as a hobby. Things to look for are business cards, an A.B.N, and most importantly a website. Ask to look at his/her portfolio – these days, the photos are usually available on the website. Remember also that Makeup salespeople at counters in department stores are just that – sales people. If you are looking for a MUA for your wedding, it’s best to go with a freelance MUA or a professional company.

9. Punctuality. It’s so important that you engage a MUA who is on time. The makeup trial is a good way to test this!

10. And last, but not least, is the Makeup Artist taking note of what makeup is being used? It is important for the MUA writes down the makeup and colours used at your trial so that in the event he/she is booked for your wedding, the look is recorded and can be reinvented on the wedding day. I always take a photo of the bride once her makeup is completed at her makeup trial, as a record for the big day. It’s also a good way to see how her makeup will look in photographs (even though it’s not a professional photograph).

I hope this has helped all you bride-to-be’s!!

Rebekah Foxe

Sydney Makeup Artist
Makeup Artistry by Rebekah
www.makeupbyrebekah.com.au
Have a question you would like to ask Bek?? email Bek at – rebekah@beyondthebride.com.au

I am often asked to conceal things like birthmarks and blemishes during the course of my duties as a makeup artist. More recently, I have been asked to conceal a tattoo on the back of the neck of a bridesmaid.

Here is a step-by-step illustration on how to conceal a tattoo.

I have used a male with a large raised tattoo as my example.

It’s important to start with a clean and dry surface.

For maximum staying power, use a primer (I have used Atelier Primer. I would also recommend the Napoleon Auto Pilot).

Start by using a base concealer, such as MAC Select Cover Up. Lightly pat the concealer with a sable concealer brush over the inked area. One coat is sufficient.

Dab the over spill with a foundation sponge, to blend into non-tattooed surrounding skin.

Next, move to a creme concealer (I’ve used Philosophy Supernatural Airbrushed Concealer).

Lightly dab the creme concealer over the tattoo being careful not to leave brush marks.

Once this dries, apply another coat.

Next, take a good-coverage foundation (I have used Atelier Professional Waterproof Fluid Foundation) and dab the inked area with the fluid foundation, again making sure you don’t leave dab/streak marks.

Allow to dry, and if necessary, repeat application.

If necessary, lightly dust with translucent powder to set the foundation.

As you can see, the ink has been concealed. This was a more difficult client, as the excessive freckles meant that the smooth, concealed area looked different to the surrounding freckled skin. But remember that ordinarily it is important to blend into surrounding skin in order to prevent this.

Happy concealing!!!

I hope these tips have helped. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me at rebekah@beyondthebride.com.au.

Rebekah Foxe

Sydney Makeup Artist
Makeup Artistry by Rebekah
www.makeupbyrebekah.com.au
Have a question you would like to ask Bek?? email Bek at – rebekah@beyondthebride.com.au

Just a quick note for all you natural cosmetic addicts…. I would personally not recommend the Wotnot 30+ SPF sunscreen. I applied it to myself, my husband and my daughter – all of whom got sunburnt! I thought it might be a one-off, but my friend who also purchased this sunscreen also experienced the same thing. Quite disappointing as it wasn’t cheap, but I will not be using it on my daughter again.

If anyone has had any positive experiences using this product, or tips on how to better use the product please let me know.

Also, if anyone knows of another natural sunscreen they can recommend, please let me know so that I can pass the information on to others.

Rebekah Foxe

Makeup Artistry by Rebekah

Sydney Makeup Artist
www.makeupbyrebekah.com.au
Have a question you would like to ask Bek?? email Bek at – rebekah@beyondthebride.com.au

NB: PLEASE NOTE THAT THESE REVIEWS ARE MY OPINION, AND NOT THE OPINION OF BEYOND THE BRIDE.