Makeup: The Ultimate Guide

I own almost every makeup book created at the moment, and this is one of my favorites. Besides the photos being gorgeous, the tips and explanations are great and easy to replicate with some patience. I also like it gives step by step of the instructions for eyeshadow looks (almost 50+ pages of them)

Update: So i've had this book for a year and i still love it, i was able to move on from eyeshadow looks to the contouring section which is very detailed and helpful. For those who really want to upgrade their makeup skills, this book is a wealth of information in a variety of areas that you can build on. To date its one of the best beauty makeup books out there.

This book is a must have for your library. Thank you thank you Rae for doing a section on color theory!!! Yeah. Also big kudos for covering mature make up and a very detailed chapter on contouring. LOVE this book. I hate to say this but I wish it was longer. I hope she comes out with another book because I'd be buying it up real quick. Enjoy the video preview.

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This book is more inspiration than instruction. Yes, there are step by step instructions and sections on specialty issues, ie, oriental eyes, some makeovers of older women, but essentially the book assumes a certain level of proficiency. That being said, her contouring and highlighting photographs are well worth the price of the book. (Remember to blend.) There are some color charts and tips and at least this author isn't afraid to recommend false eyelashes.

The photographs are largely editorial with an emphasis on eyes. Again like couture, it is not for everyday wear but provides a creative impulse to integrate. I liked that she included the older ladies (also lovely model specimens) with assist to their issues. (I also thought it was a major cautionary tale about sun damage.) I would have like to see greater diversity especially regarding age and profession (non-models please). Yes, those fifteen year olds have pefect skin and are totally unblemished by either time or experience. No challenge there. But find the beauty in the imperfection and make it work.

Again a fun book to look at with some valuable tips and charts.

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So as a person of Colour (like Iman or slightly darker) I was more than disappointed to see that there was NOT even one Dark model. The darkest model was barely as dark as JLo. There was a chapter on Asian eyes with 4 looks. There was also a chapter on "Over 40s" with 5 looks. This was slightly helpful since my mother is over 40 and slightly lighter. They do have good tips and a eye colour chart which is probably the most usable thing for a person of dark skin (though the chart is more about eye colour than skin). The are 25 eye looks but not much lips (but more like 1 picture and some helpful tips). There is also a section on 10 minute makeovers with 6 looks. There are a FEW TIPS on foundation, contouring, highlighting, bronzing and applying false eyelashes. There are definitely lost of pictures though there is a step by step layout there is not much step by step explanation for a very novice learner but with practice (which is / will be needed) you will get the hang of it.

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I got this book at the library and decided against buying it. The reason had nothing to do with its content, but rather due to needs. This book is chalk full of detail and is an excellent guide, however it is NOT for beginners, and it is not for everyday looks for the most part. It is for dinner parties, or for someone who "plays" with make-up everyday. I found Jemma Kidd's "Masterclass" to be better for people like me who are familear with general make-up techniques and want to try some new looks and ideas but who aren't looking to do anything particularly "out-there" and aren't skilled at make-up, but have some general knowledge. Over-all could be a great book for you, but middle of the road everyday type gals like me it didnt suit...

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