A guide to donning the nation’s colours in your makeup, and wearing your patriotism
By Lee Li Ying
Come Aug 9, the streets will once again be awash in a tide of red and white. While the surge of patriotism will probably compel you to dress in our nation’s colours, like many others, there are simple ways to stand out.
Weekender shows you how you can merge national pride with effortless style.
SINGAPORE THROUGH YOUR EYES
The eyes are the windows to one’s soul, and certainly the most befitting way you can communicate passion and ardour.
If you are game for something a little more adventurous, have fun with this daring palette of red and white. A deviation from the usual choices of black or brown for sure; the dab of white in the centre of your eyelids serves to perk up the eyes.
If you are going for a little less drama yet a look you can wear to the after-party, post-Marina Bay fireworks, give this revamped rocker-chic look a chance. The bright red outlined by heavily-lidded black communicates sophisticated sensuality without being too overwhelming.
A safer yet non-conventional approach is to give red eyeliner a go. Despite reservations about its wear-ability off the runway, it is an exciting alternative to the conventional black-rimmed eyes. What better day to give it a go than on our nation’s birthday?
The trick is to make sure that the lines drawn are thick and clean, and to keep the red off your lower eye line. Smudged red eyeliner or a tinge of red on the bottom lids can make you look as if you have just emerged from a boxing match. To create a cleaner contrast, consider highlighting your waterline with a hint of black before experimenting with the red eyeliner.
LIPS DON’T LIE
If you are not a fan of dramatic eye colours, let your lips do the talking. True to this season’s iconic look, a bright poppy red
on a neutral base is one of the easiest and quickest ways to jazz up your lips.
A perfectly painted pout adds immediate sass and sophistication in seconds. Pay more than lip service to Singapore by glossing on a fierce shade of patriotic red.
NATION ON YOUR NAILS
Beautifully manicured nails speak volumes about one’s personal grooming and sense of style. Pay tribute to the nation’s birthday with beautiful nail art that you can wear for weeks.
To suit the celebratory mood, try a French manicure with a twist. The striking red tips make an interesting fashion statement that is versatile enough for work and school.
Those who are more adept with their fingers can consider experimenting with stars and crescents on a red base. Embody Singapore this year.
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