Tia Maria's Page

Dear Tia Maria - I'm going to my HS prom. I already have a formal gown and am paying someone to do my hair, but I have to do my own makeup. I've never put on makeup for a dress-up affair. Please give me some ideas on makeup.
Jen (17 yrs)
Fremont

Jen - First of all, don't wear shiny shimmery make-up. I know it's popular, but this looks sweaty in pictures. 99% of all women look better with some shade of dark eyeshadow (blue eyeshadow should be illegal) in the fold of the eye. Keep the actual lid light. Lots of mascara. If you wear foundation make sure it's matte (the sweaty look issue). Now for the lips...Don't line the lips with a lipstick color. Find a freckle on your skin and buy a thin brow pencil that matches that freckle (trust me on this). The idea is to create a stronger, natural looking lip line - I'm not talking about that "I just ate an Oreo" look. Then fill in with lipstick, using a good quality lip brush. Use the lip-brush to blend the lipstick gently into the lip-liner. This takes some practice but is well worth the effort. Most of us apply makeup with the idea that people are looking straight at us. Of course, we are being seen from all angles which is why you should check your application from all angles. Before going out, Marlyn Monroe used to turn her back to a full length mirror, turn around quickly and then remove or tone down anything that caught her eye. She believed that it was important to wear the clothes and makeup, not for the clothes and makeup to wear her. I couldn't agree more. Have a great time at your prom.


Dear Tia Maria - I'm starting my first job next week. How do I dress professionally on a limited budget? (I'm a female 23 years old; banking firm). Thanks!
Kiesha (23 yrs)
San Francisco

Kiesha - This is easy. Spend the most you can on a quality black skirt made of wool gabardine. The length should hit mid knee and have a short slit in the back. This skirt will be the foundation of everything you wear. For the office, nude nylons (yes, I said it; bare legs are never appropriate in a professional environment), short to mid-heeled black pumps, a crisp, pressed white blouse, gold, silver or pearl button earrings. Leave the dangling and clanging jewelry for the nightclub. And don't forget your most important accessory...your smile!