"My colors are blush and bashful..."

I couldn’t resist the cheeky Steel Magnolias reference to start off today’s posting. Just as M' Lynne (Sally Fields) underestimated the difference between Shelby’s (Julia Roberts) wedding colors “blush and bashful,” which she sarcastically described as “pink and pink,” I think we often underestimate the power of blush. We pass blush off as the obligatory “add a little color to your cheeks.” Yet when used effectively, blush can add dimension to your cheekbones and provide that oh-so-necessary compliment of color between the eyes and the lips to finish your look.

Let’s start with application. Use your cheekbones as your guide. If you are looking for a slight sweep of color (see pic # 1), start at the apple of your cheek and brush upwards to your temple, following the natural line of your cheekbone back and forth. Repeat this motion until desired fabulousness is fulfilled. For this application, an every day blush brush will suit your needs. Remember, the less concentrated the brush, the less dramatic your application will be. Meaning if you use a bigger brush, the color will be more spread out and not in a precisely defined line.

Soft and Subtle...
Image from Sephora

Which brings me to the next blushing option - if blushing is what you are all about and you are going for the “checkout these cheekbones” look (see pic # 2), use a contouring brush (smaller, slightly angled, and more concentrated that your average run-of-the-mill blush brush) and start application at the top of your cheekbone (generally in between your temple and ear) sweeping down, stopping just short of the apple of your cheek. Repeat this motion until diva-ness is attained.

Uber Cheek-ness

Image from Clinique

In terms of blush product variety, I’m a classic blush girl. I find that pressed powder blushes are way more user-friendly and manageable than the cream blushes, which have certain element of war paint in terms of application and malleability. Also, don’t be afraid to blend a few blush shades together, perhaps adding a bit of shimmer and sparkle onto your favorite matte shade. Or maybe you are hot for this cranberry shade, which is only too perfect for date night, but a bit glamazon for the office, so tone it down with a neutral shade. Lastly, break out the bronzer every now and then to assist you in attaining cheek perfection. Bronzer can be used as a fantastic compliment to many shades of blush or can stand alone as a natural nude – y shade if you’re looking for a laid-back, fun-in-the-sun, look (see pic # 3).

Low-Key Sun Goddess
Image from Clinique

So next time you’re at your vanity, play around a little. Try some new shades you’ve been avoiding, mix up your application methods and find what works best for you – you blushing beauty.