Designers looked back to the 1980s for Fall 2009 as they sent their models prancing down runways wearing leggings, extended shoulders, high ponytails and shiny and uber-colorful eyes, lips and cheeks.
There’s a saying among those in the fashion business that if you wore a trend the first time around it should be avoided when it returns. But rules – and sayings, I guess – are meant to be broken so if you want to rock purple eye shadow or pink lips, go for it. Just be judicious and follow these tips:
For a colorful eye that’s reminiscent of the 1980’s without being garish, choose colors in the deeper ranges. Opt for a navy blue liner or shadow and leave the brighter – and less flattering – blues on the cosmetics shelves.
Ditto eyelashes. In the 80s we coated our lashes with purple, electric blue and bright green mascaras thinking they would brighten and open up our eyes. (In my book, there’s only one color for mascara and that is black. Period.) If, however, you like the look of colored lashes, choose those in the deeper hues such as burgundy or navy blue.
We all wanted to shine under the disco lights. Our blush was kissed with metallic particles; our lipstick was pearlized. Unfortunately, these are less than flattering on older women and can, in fact, be aging. But you don’t have to fade into the woodwork. There are other ways to shine. Apply a hint of glimmer to the crest of your cheekbones, just under the arch of your brow or on the bow of your upper lip. Avoid using it all over your face. And, instead of using a pearlized lip color on your entire mouth, place it on the center of your bottom lip – after you’ve applied your lipstick.
Another beauty trend for Fall 2009 is the red lip. Red is universally flattering and can be worn by women of any age – providing you find the right shade for your skin tone.
Avoid neon colors, especially on your face. If you love neon pink lip color, opt for a toned down shade and modify the look. While neon was huge in the 80s and makes a comeback this season with neon lip and nail colors, it was – and still is – difficult to wear. It looks too costumey and is just not flattering on any face. I admit, I tried neon purple nail polish this summer and loved the way it shone. Neon nail colors are still big for fall so if you long for a touch of neon, use it on your fingertips.
While beauty, like fashion, does have its trends, you don’t have to follow them to be beautiful or fashionable. While it’s fun to change your beauty routine and, say sport a colorful eye, if you generally wear brown shadows, wear what makes you comfortable. It’s true what they say … if you feel beautiful, you’ll look beautiful.
