Leafing through Bobbi Brown's Makeup Manual is almost like sitting down and having a cup of latte with the makeup whiz herself. Her book answers every question I'd ask, and subjects are arranged in an easy to locate format along with step-by-step instructions so the reader can take as much or as little time as she wishes. Dramatic for a special evening? Understated for the office? Picture perfect for a photography session? The choice is ours. While some tend to make applying cosmetics a difficult task one of the reasons I like Bobbi Brown so much is that she makes it easy.
Never one to overlook the necessity of good health via nutrition, exercise, and sleep Bobbi begins with some practical reminders along those lines. Then, it's on to skin care basics. I thought I knew all I needed to to know about cleansing, moisturizing, etc. Wrong! Bobbi said that dry lips are a sign that one should drink more water, and she's right - it worked for me. Also, she suggested applying moisturizer by "gently pressing the product into the skin until it is completely absorbed." Also works for me!
There are tons of these tips that really do make a difference - all the way from choosing the right foundation shade (swatch a few shades on your face, check the colors in natural light - the one that disappears is for you) to shaping eyebrows to applying lip gloss that stays, yes, glossy.
The photographs are gorgeous and especially useful when the reader is shown the application of blush or eye shadow from start to finish. If you're a budding makeup artist Bobbi shares a wealth of information and advice.
Also included are makeup tips for teens, brides, and special occasions. There's something helpful for everyone in Bobbi Brown Makeup Manual!
- Gail Cooke
