The winter months are fast approaching, and gone along with the summer months is the sun-kissed glow it gave. Don’t fret though, because with the use of bronzer you can have that summer glow all year around.

The key is to apply your bronzer correctly. So many people reach for their bronzers and apply it all over as if it is a setting power. Please DON’T do that!

There are two main types of bronzers. Matte and Shimmer. I use lighter, shimmery bronzers to highlight and I like to use darker, matte bronzers to contour. If you are going for a natural, no makeup look stick to matte bronzers and bronzers with a Subtle (Keyword: Subtle) shimmer.
One of my favorite highlight powders is limited edition by mac from the Naked Honey collection. Its great to apply just slightly above the cheeks. It has a layer of shimmer on top, but a fter the first few uses it becomes a beautiful matte highlight with a nice subtle glow. (Ask your local MAC counter, they might have some left in the back. If not check the Cosmetic Company stores in the Prime outlet malls. You can usually gind lots of limited edition MAC products there at a discounted price.)

Next you must understand the placement of bronzers. We already discussed that applying bronzer all over is a no no. When using matte bronzers that are slightly darker than the face I like to apply them to the contours and outer perimeter of the face. Make a fish face and apply your bronzer to the contours of your cheek. You can also apply the bronzer along your hairline and jawline. Also, you can hit your nose slightly if you choose.

When applying shimmer bronzers use them to highlight. You can apply them to the cheeks or slightly above the cheekbone, and dab the chin and forehead. Make sure to blend well.

So now that you know about the different types and placement of bronzer, but you still need the proper tools to apply. My favorite brush for bronzer is a large, fluffy, angled brush. The angle makes it easier to apply to the contours and around your face. One that I love is MAC’s 168 brush. I also like to use MAC’s 188 brush, especially to apply highlight.

So now that you know how to properly apply bronzer, you can keep your summer glow all year around.

**All makeup in this blog was done by yours truly!**

This summer seems to be all about that natural glow. There is a focus on luminous skin, which is being emphasized by strategically placed highliters and bronzers.

Shimmer highlighters are being used just above the cheeks, on the forehead, chin, and slightly on the nose.  They give the skin a beautiful glow, and really makes the face radiate.  Bronzers are being used to contour, and placed along the hair line, jaw line, and just below the cheek bone.

I’m noticing that the eyes are very soft this summer. Color is pretty understated and lots of neutral tones are being used with lots of shimmer and highlight on the inner corners. While the eyeshadow is minimal don’t be afraid to have fun with lashes and liner. Whether it be mascara or false lashes, go to town!

As far as lips go, maybe its just me, but I’m always loving a beautiful red lip. The red lip is classic, and will always pair nicely nude eyes.  For a nice alternative to red you can go for magenta and fuchsia colors.

Some great products to help achieve that look are:

Mac’s loose iridescent powder in golden bronze & silverdust:

A personal favorite of mine. I love the shimmer and glow I get from it. I use golden bronze literally every single day! And the containter it comes in is huge. I’ve had mine for 3 years now and I’m still using it. I use Mac’s 188 brush to apply. I also use the powder as my eyeshadow for quick glamour.

Mac’s Lystre drops”

Comes in 3 colors

These drops are a must have! Dab a little bit above your cheek bones for the most gorgeous glow!

Mac’s Fascinating eye khol

-white eyeliner pencil

Using a white or beige pencil on the bottom inner rim of your eyes really opens your eyes up. Just this subtle step makes a big difference to the eyes.