Updated Fall Makeup Routine

SWEATER (L) | HOOP EARRINGS | MAKEUP DETAILS BELOW

Now that we’re in the thick of fall, I thought it’d be fun to do an updated makeup look. My approach to beauty (and all things) is simple: do what makes you feel good! Over the 10 years I’ve spent in the modeling industry, one of the things I love most about makeup is that it’s open for interpretation, there’s really no “right” or “wrong” way to use it. Many makeup artists I worked with used similar products in different ways. I have my preferred methods, sure, but over the years I’ve evolved in the way that I use the same product. I’m constantly learning! Today is all about my every makeup with a seasonal twist, I’ve mastered this ~7 minute routine with some of my favorite products so I can feel put together and be camera/Zoom ready if I need to. I don’t always apply in this exact order so if you recreate, do what feels good to you! Every product shown today is from Nordstrom, one of my favorite one stop destinations for beauty, skincare and related gifts! I also love stocking up when some of their brands feature gifts with purchase. Let’s get to it:

STEP 1: PRIME + PREP SKIN

At the very least, be sure to cleanse, moisturize and apply SPF to your skin before applying makeup. After I do this, I like to apply this Hourglass Veil Mineral primer. It lays so nicely on my skin. I’ve tried dozens of primers but I keep going back to this one. It’s been in my kit for well over five years.

STEP 2: APPLY EYE PRIMER

I’ve talked about this eyelid primer for years, it’s my absolute favorite. I wear shade “Bare”. In order to prevent creasing, you want to make sure you apply it onto dry and clean eyelids. Some days I will just wear the primer, nothing else because it provides a nice natural look but it also is a great base for applying shadow that lasts all day.

STEP 3: COVER + CONCEAL

I’ve played around with A LOT of foundations, CC + BB creams in my day but I keep going back to this one for everyday use. When applied with a damp beauty sponge, it goes on nicely for medium to full buildable coverage. Currently wearing Light Medium but in the summer I’ll wear a shade darker. After applying all over my face, I’ll go in with concealer (shade Custard) to see which spots need additional coverage (usually under eye and blemishes). I’ve been using this one for years and it works best when warmed up onto your skin so I’ll apply it with my ring finger.

STEP 4: SET THE WET + BRONZE

Something to keep in mind is that whenever you are applying liquid to your skin, you want to “set the wet” product with powder. This has significantly helped me and I’ve noticed my makeup holds up better all day long with minimal touch ups. I’ve tried a slew of pressed powders and Laura Mercier’s are my favorites. I use her Translucent Loose Setting Powder and Secret Brightening Powder for Under Eyes which just WAKES me up and adds an extra brightening effect! I like to play around with my bronzers and apply them in a “3” formation on my forehead, cheek and jawbone. I’ve loved Charlotte Tilbury’s Filmstar Bronze & Glow palette. If you’ve been hesitant to try, it now comes in this mini version. I’m on my fourth one, it’s truly one of my favorites.

STEP 5: BLUSH + HIGHLIGHT

I use the lighter side of the Filmstar palette mentioned above to highlight on the cheekbone, bridge of my nose and underneath my brow bone. It’s become my signature, no other highlight compares for me! I also like to make a smile and apply a touch of this blush on my cheeks (shade Call My Blush).

STEP 6: BROWS

I shared a few weeks ago that I LOVE to use this brow gel (shade 03) and recently learned a new way to apply it that makes a big difference. Before combing hairs in the direction you’d like them to go in, brush them the opposite way first. This allows the product to really get on there and gives the appearance of a fuller brow.

STEP 7: EYES / LASHES / LINER

How much I actually do of this step is often determined by how much time and how “done up” I’d like to look. With the frequent mask wearing, I’ve been focusing a little more on my brows and eyes lately but at the very least I’ll apply a fresh coat of mascara. I discovered this mascara a few years ago and it’s INCREDIBLE when you don’t want to deal with flaking or the dreaded “raccoon eyes.” It’s a tubular formula so when you take it off, it comes off in little ‘tubes.’ I highly recommend this for anyone who has issues with flaking / smudging.
Before applying mascara, I’ll gently dot this gel liner (shade Arabian Nights) in between my lashes. I’ve shared this a few times but keep in mind you’re not applying in swipes, just dotting for a subtle definition.

Sometimes I stop there, sometimes I’ll keep going and add eyeshadow (often times I’ll do this before applying mascara but in the video show in my feed today, I didn’t). I’ve been really loving this palette (shade Copper) for the fall / holidays and used shade “Truth” on my eyelids. For extra definition, I’ll add this eyeliner (shade Absolute Black and incredibly user friendly) and use the other side of the pencil to smudge the lines a bit.

Step 8: add a lip!

To bring the look together, my typical go-to shades are this one or this one in ‘Bitch Perfect.’ I do love a deep red but for everyday, I typically gravitate towards the rose / light pink shades.

HOT TIP: As of 10/1, Beautycycle has launched in all Nordstrom stores. The goal is to help our customers create a zero waste beauty routine so any empty packaging that can’t go into your regular curbside bin can be dropped off in the Beauty cycle bins in the beauty department at every Nordstrom and Nordstrom Local location in the U.S. (everything from pump and spray bottles to mascara tubes). Their partners at Terra Cycle will recycle everything so that the materials can be used to make new products – everything from watering cans to park benches. Their ambition is to recycle 100 tons of empty containers by 2025. You can read more about the initiative here! Another reason to love shopping at Nordstrom.

Well, there you have it! I hope it doesn’t sound too complicated or overwhelming… Just keep in mind that beauty is whatever you want it to be! As much or as little as you prefer. This is what works for me, I do this so frequently that it feels quick and easy. It definitely takes a little practice to nail down your perfect routine. But never hesitate to reach out anytime with any questions, always happy to help. What do you think of this fall look?

Thanks to Nordstrom Beauty for sponsoring this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own.