Expert Corner: Help, I’m a Redhead!

Mare is blessed as a natural red head, but feels she has always been on her own for ways to enhance her look.  Her mom, a brunette, didn’t share the same coloring and wasn’t sure how to guide her.  She wants to update her makeup but doesn’t know where to start.

Her second bit of motivation is her redheaded daughter.  Nearing her teen years, a time when girls begin exploring the world of cosmetics, Mare worries that she might repeat history and won’t be able to guide her to the right color choices and applications.  She very much wants to share some girlie time with her teen.  Help is on the way!

There are redheads under those hats!

After viewing photos of her with and without makeup, first impressions made me think of Bobbi Brown Cosmetics.  This is a professional, quality makeup line that is full of natural tones with rich, but not wild, pops of color. It can be dressy and relaxed at the same time. There are so many variations of metals and colors that would work beautifully on a redhead!  This line is also known for having excellent foundations and award winning concealers.   The bonus is that it is available online as well as many store locations.

Mare currently buys from a line that markets to redheads only and asked if I had heard of them.  I had not.  Honestly, I don’t believe one has to be a redhead in order to provide/recommend makeup to a redhead.  You do have to have an eye for color, and know what shades are flattering to your skin.  Once you figure out what works for you, you’ve got freedom to explore and have fun.

I went directly to Bobbi Brown and asked what guidelines they would offer Mare.  Here is what Manager of Artistry at Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, Kimberly Soane, recommended:

• When it comes to picking a flattering shade for brows, stick with warm soft brown tones like taupe, which will keep your brows soft but defined.

• Don’t be afraid of trying pink shades for cheeks and lip colors – they look beautiful on red heads!

• If you have fair lashes, stick with black mascara which will really help to open up your eyes.

• Cool-toned eye shadows will work best for those with red-head and pale coloring.  Pink shades will make your eyelids look more tired, so try a soft grey or cement tone.

• A dark brown eyeliner is a great way to make your eyes pop; make sure to keep liner tight to the lash line, leaving no space between lashes and the liner, for the best results.

There are a multitude of items that fall in the range, and these are a few I suggest: Honeyglaze palette (above), Earth Metal Lip & Eye palette, Creamy Eye Pencil.  Bobbi Brown also makes a great potted eyeliner.

This is just the tip for where to begin.    Because she lives within the hour of a Bobbi Brown location, I’m hoping we’ll have a chance to have a makeover encounter one of these days.

Let us know how these guidelines work for you.

Thank you to Kimberly Soane!