Colored Mascara Gets Sophisticated
You can wear colored mascara and still look sophisticated. (Photo: Sandbox Studios)
Colored mascara may conjure up memories of middle school, but every brand from Tom Ford to Rimmel is presenting their own take on the trend this season with looks that range from playful to sophisticated.
“I have been using colored mascara on set more lately and have been loving it,” says Tamah, makeup artist to celebs like Alexa Chung and Elisabeth Moss. “Color just makes everything a bit more intriguing.” Whether you’re looking to inject some color into your spring beauty routine or seeking a dose of nostalgia, follow these tips to pull off the look in a modern, mature way.
Choose your mascara shade. “You can consider navy and dark purple akin to your black and brown—they are neutral and will give you a hint of something different without being too obvious,” says Tamah. “I love a bright blue on blue eyes—yes, matchy matchy works in this scenario. I love a bright purple on dark eyes.” That said, Tamah advises against wearing red or pink mascaras. “They tend to make people look ill, or like you’ve been crying all night. Not the most flattering!”
Consider layering. If you can’t give up your signature black mascara, you can still use it as a base. “Use a very light coat of black mascara first, concentrating right at your lash line and feathering up from there,” says Tamah. “This will intensify your color and also build up your lash line a bit.
Keep makeup simple. “I would definitely recommend keeping the overall look minimal so that the mascara can be the star of the show,” says Tamah. “If you’re comfortable going bear and just wearing the mascara I think that is a super chic and bold way to go.” If you’re looking for a more cohesive look, try matching your mascara color to your eyeliner. “I would recommend using a pencil liner and blending it very subtly into your lash line. This will keep the overall look cohesive and soft.”
Throw caution to the wind. With colored mascara on the runways and the red carpet there’s nothing junior high about this new look—you just need to be brave enough to try it. “There are no rules,” says Tamah of the high fashion look. “Have fun. That’s what it’s all about!”
Mascaras pictured above, from left: Guerlain Cils d’Enfer Maxi Lash Mascara in Marine ($30), L’Oreal Miss Manga Mascara in Turquoise ($8), Tom Ford Extreme Mascara in Teal Intense ($44), Dolce & Gabbana Volumized Lashes Mascara in Dahlia ($31), Dior Diorshow Iconic Mascara in Navy Blue ($29), Nonie Creme Colour Prevails Lash Ombre Mascara in Light Purple/Black ($13).
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