Making up your Character...xo

When an actress goes into character for a film...the dialogue changes, her outfits, her persona...as well as her makeup.  In order to truly become that character, makeup is a key element in creating the character!

So lets talk about our character.  We are not acting film everyday, no one is writing our dialogue for us...but we all, have a character!  Our personality...something that no one can touch.  Something that some are afraid to embrace.  Something that no matter what we are going through in life, where we end up...we own it. 

I am a firm believer in embracing your character!  Not being afraid to let yourself shine...whether you are a tinted moisturizer and chapstick wearer, or a false lash, neon lipstick or glitter wearer!  It's up to you to truly own it, and make it you!

Now I am going to discuss actual film characters.  My goal in this blog, is to tap into what products are used to create that certain character, as far as makeup...and how certain products can create a mood, and a feel!

The Look of Love!

Rachel McAdams in the Notebook was in love.  If you look closely at her makeup in the film...it truly represents, being in love!  A simple innocent dewy sheen on the skin, a touch of mascara and the most important product of all...that natural flush on her cheeks and lips, that create the look of natural blushing!

In this movie still, her character is happy, in love and comfortable in her own skin!  Notice the minimal makeup, with just a natural warm flush on the cheeks and on the lips!  Being in love should look, and feel this natural!

To get that same, natural blushing look...try Benefit Benetint lip & Cheek Stain.  This product comes in a couple different shades, but the best to me, is the original.  This will give you the perfect, glowing rose flush that will stay put for hours!

Benefit Benetint Lip & Cheek Stain $28 sephora.com

Bold expression, making a statement!

Sienna Miller, portraying Edie Sedgwick in Factory Girl gave me the chills.  She really became Edie.  Edie was a lover of makeup, whether or not she was hiding in it or not, it does not matter.  It was her look and she owned it.  From the full brows, to the beauty mark, extreme eye makeup and lashes...she had her own thing going on.  I loved the makeup in Factory Girl...this was true character makeup!

Edie's Character in the movie, lived a privileged upbringing.  She came from a very wealthy family, then made her own way in New York as a model and muse of Andy Warhol.  The more she came into herself, the more unique her look became.  She was, and forever will be an icon.  The lashes, that hair, the black tights and huge earrings...that was Edie!

Wet N' Wild Liquid Liner $3 Drugstore

To get that Edie look, the icon look, try Wet and Wild Liquid Eyeliner!  The point is pure perfection when applying, making any look simple.  Smudge proof and makes a statement! ps. Ive used the brown to create the perfect beauty mark!

Creating the feel of the Character...

One of my new favorite film's, the Black Swan!  The character of Nina played by Natalie Portman was exquisite!  Such a very dark film, yet so beautiful...from the lighting, to the costumes, the music and of course, the makeup!

While playing the White Swan, Nina's character is beautiful, yet timid, nervous and very fragile.  She has the constant look of fear in her eyes.  Her makeup is very pale, slightly dewy and actually creates a fragile feel. 

Pale skin, supple, glowing...very pure and innocent.  She has a doll like look.  Very ethereal, and untouchable.

To create the look of purity and innocence, with an ethereal glow - such as Nina as the White Swan...try MAC Creme Colour Base in Luna!  Tap onto the cheekbones, brow bones, bridge of nose, bow of lip, temples...even the collar bones.  This has the perfect amount of sheen that will look amazing in all light.  Most importantly, keep the rest of the makeup simple...a little brow pencil, dark brown mascara, and a lip balm.  The overall look is simple, and stunning!

Nina as the Black Swan...

As Nina's character is slowly tapping into her darker side, and losing herself...her makeup changes.  But not just the makeup that is changing, so is her personality.  It changes her! 

From the bold pale skin, to the dark exaggerated eye makeup and red lip...this is extreme character makeup all the way.  I have done makeup for films, and you can literally feel the actress or actor change as they sit in the makeup chair.  This is a vital part of the process. 

To create the look of any bold eye makeup style, the key is using a cream or gel eyeliner with a brush.  This allows you to freely express your creativity, with no boundaries. I am a big fan of Maybelline Eye Studio Lasting Drama Gel Liner in Black.  This also comes with a brush, and is completely smudge proof!  Amazing!

When using a gel, or cream liner...be sure to keep the lid on and tight, when not using.  These products has a tendency to dry out if the lid is not properly on.  You also want to wash the brush after every use.  Baby or makeup wipes are a great quick way clean! 

So there you go!  Whether you're an actress, or not...finding your own style, and creating your character (and i say that meaning by truly expressing who you are, being you) the key is having fun, keeping an open mind and finding inspiration in different areas.  Not just fashion magazines, or actresses and celebrities, because that it simple...but music, places, your mood.  If you love glitter or bright red lipstick, wear it proudly...being you're character is all that truly matters.

Another fabulous process I have found, is stripping it all away.  Washing off the makeup, letting your true skin shine.  A lot of us have a hard time doing this...but to truly find one's character, you must first be comfortable in your own skin - because it is beautiful!

Bjork - Venus as a Boy, from the Album Family Tree

A beautiful song from an artist who is not afraid to embrace her character. 

Love!

xo