Contouring: The Basics

Photos Courtesy Of: Guerlain (Sephora.com); Josie Maran (Sephora.com); Bobbi Brown (Sephora.com); Urban Decay (Sephora.com); Smashbox (Sephora.com); Bare Minerals (Beauty.com); Elf (Fishpond.com)

I am no make-up artist but I have quickly learned that contouring is the MOST important technique in applying your make-up daily. For years, I was just applying my make-up without paying attention to contouring and highlighting features based on my particular face shape.

After watching endless Youtube videos on how to contour a more "round" face shape, I tailored my make-up routine and was able to do so using most products I already loved. I was also introduced to several new products that I cannot live without!

How I Contour My Face Shape:

Step 1: I apply my Smashbox High Def foundation full coverage. I apply it using an Elf Foundation Brush.
Step 2: I apply my Guerlain Bronzer. This may be the most important step because my round cheeks are my biggest problem area when it comes to contouring. I apply the bronzer in an upward motion starting from the corner of my lip up to my ear. I do this on both sides in a sweeping motion. I also apply a little bit of bronzer on my jawline and around my hairline where the light naturally hits.
Step 3: I apply the Bobbi Brown brush in a circular motion on the apples of my cheeks.
Step 4: I apply the Josie Maran Creamy Concealer Crayon underneath my eyes and blend it in. I also apply one long line down the bridge of nose to gift it a more narrow appearance. I have a very round nose as well.
Step 5: One step I have also found to be very important is paying attention to the shape and color of my eyebrows. I have very dark eyebrows to begin with, so initially I never felt the need to color them in or enhance them in any way. However, once I watched a tutorial online about the Elf Eyebrow Kit I knew I had to try it out. Using this kit really opens up my eyes and gives my face more definition. To learn more about how to use this kit I recommend looking on Youtube. It is a lot to type here.
Step 6: After applying my mascara and eyeliner, I use the "Virgin" shade from the Urban Decay Naked Palette to highlight under my brow. I essentially follow the line of my brow in a sweeping motion with this shadow. It really makes my brows and eyes pop!
Step 7: Of course, apply your bareMinerals Marvelous Moxie lipgloss to top off your look.