Meet the babes behind Beauty Bender, Alexis Johnson and Kathryn Romeyn. Little girls playing with their mothers’ makeup became grown women thriving in the magazine industry. After years working at various LA publications, Alexis and Kathryn started their own beauty trends blog. It’s easy to be entranced on their site for hours with insider tips from celebrities and industry professionals, edgy photoshoots, and top-notch product recommendations.
Sorority formals are all over the social calendar this month! I knew Alexis and Kathryn would be my go-to girls to create a guide for the hottest makeup, hair, and nails for your next glam event.
COLORS
Makeup this season has been all about having a little fun, while still staying natural. We're loving all things oxblood—a great, deep burgundy color that's perfect for nails (try Essie's Wicked) or a bold lip (here are some of our hints on how to wear it best: http://www.beautybender.com/2012/10/bordeaux-beauty/), but don't shy away from a great red or fuchsia, either. Statement-making lips are here to stay!EYES
For eyes, we're championing full, natural brows a la Arizona Muse or Lily Collins. A full brow frames the face and feels fun and fashion-forward, too. So eschew the usual smoky eye and go easy on the shadow—instead try just a few coats of mascara or keep things simple with a neutral shadow and a slick cat eye done precisely with liquid liner (NYX's Curve is truly game-changing and perfect for any liquid-lining novice; more about it here: http://www.beautybender.com/2012/10/makeup-musts/).HAIR
As for hair, waves are on hold for now, so aim for smooth luscious locks. All the runways have been showing sleek, straight locks worn either down with a center part or pulled back into a chic ponytail. What could be easier?NAILS
And don't forget your nails! Nail art is a true passion for us and so easy to do at home. It's fun (and cheap!) to experiment, and right now we're into the 'negative space manicure' (see the easy-to-do tutorial here: http://www.beautybender.com/2012/11/positive-picture/) as well as the two-tone take on the traditional French mani. We suggest keeping things unexpected and trying a base coat of red with a pink tip, or even a black base with a gold accent. The sky's the limit here! You may even want to try to coordinating it with your dress.WORDS OF WISDOM
The main thing is that you feel confident, so go with something that really makes your natural beauty shine and is also low maintenance. Nothing is worse that being tied down to the bathroom all night while you have to constantly touch up your makeup.Want more unique tips from Beauty Bender? Be sure to visit the site and sign up for the newsletter. You can also follow Beauty Bender on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.Now that it’s guaranteed your date will be blown away by your stunning beauty, your party pre-prep is almost done! Next item on the agenda: find the perfect dress!