Photography Kenneth Wong Styling Jeanette Ejlersen, assisted by Chia Ying Na Hair Dennis Seah, assisted by Owen Ouyang/Toni & Guy @ The Star Vista Makeup Melissa Yeo/Fac3inc, using Becca Model Boglarka/Looque Outfit H&M Illustrations www.dianengrose.com
Good contouring is like a well-fitted bra: it should flatter your face shape, give you a facelift, bring out your features and create the illusion of an oval-shaped face – naturally – without being a complex map.
7 general face shapes = 7 types of contouring
Makeup artist Larry Yeo breaks it down for us…
1. Long Oval
All you need is to create some shadow on your forehead or chin to make your face look shorter.
2. Square
Sculpt away the extra girth at the sides of your forehead and jawline.
3. Rectangular
This is just a longer version of a square, so do the same, but also contour along the hairline.
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4. Diamond
Shade the sides of your face to “rein in” your broad cheeks.
5. Heart
Make your wide forehead and cheeks look smaller by contouring the temples and cheekbones.
6. Triangle
Play down your strong jawline by contouring the sides of your face and below the jawline.
7. Round
Shade the sides of your face to add definition and depth. Apply the product in the shape of an “E” or “3”.
WHICH IS GOOD FOR WHAT:
Liquids and gels for everyday wear: They’re easier to control and look more natural.
Creams for photoshoots and stagewear: They are better for obvious sculpting.
Powders for fool-proof application: Use a synthetic brush with these; it deposits less product and blends well.
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THE GOODS: NEW AND IMPROVED BRONZERS, HIGHLIGHTERS AND SHAPE-SHIFTERS
Nars Sun Wash Diff using Bronzer ($65) diff uses light, blurring out imperfections for a soft matte finish.
Laura Mercier Soleil Matte Veil Powder ($68) gives a fresh, matte finish that doesn’t look powdery.
La Mer Soleil de la Mer Bronzing Powder ($130) comes in four universally flattering shades and can work as a highlighter too.
Burberry Beauty The Essentials Face Contour ($54) has a dome tip for precise contouring. Bonus: its lightweight and creamy finish.
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Tom Ford Beauty The Ultimate Bronzer ($180) is a liquid powder that gives skin a soft lustre.
Urban Decay Naked Skin Shapeshifter ($69) packs nine contouring, colour-correcting and highlighting shades in cream and powder in one palette.
Laura Mercier Sunset Bronzing Crayon ($54) can also be used on the eyes and lips for a gilded effect.
This story was originally published in the June 2017 issue of Her World magazine.