Make-Up Matters in 2009!

You've got the dress, the shoes, the accessories, even the perfect little clutch purse to tie it all together. But you're still missing the one final ingredient that will tie your entire look together – your prom 2009 makeup! Check out some of the following hot trends for your big night:

Smooth Skin

Healthy, glowing skin says as much about you as the makeup you put on it. In the months leading up to prom, take the time to wash and moisturize your face every night, drink enough water to stay hydrated and try a vitamin E supplement to make sure your skin stays smooth and supple.

When it's time to get glammed up for prom, steer clear of heavy foundations that will make you look like princess of the pancake ball. Start with a tinted moisturizer to help even out your skin tone, like those produced by Revlon and Sephora. This will help to cover up imperfections without drying out your sensitive skin. Once this product has set, target your problem areas with concealer, using a yellow-tinted product for dark under-eye circles and a green-tinted product for redness and pimples.

Colorful Eyes

Once your skin is set, turn your attention to your eyes. A bright splash of color is a great way to liven up a more subtle gown. For example, if you're wearing a black cocktail gown, a swipe of turquoise that brings out the green in your eyes can really complete your look. Just a few words of caution – when you're working with bright colors, keep your movements small and be careful not to apply too much. A single swipe across the lid of your eye is enough to create an impact without looking too much like Bozo the Clown.

Smoky Eyes

If bright blue eye shadow reminds you too much of your grandmother, consider this staple of evening looks – the smoky eye. Choose a darker eye shadow, like brown, plum, forest green or grey, and apply a heavy coat of powder across the lid. Next, using a brush or your finger, smudge the shadow up into the crease of your eye, pulling it up a little further at the outer edge of your eye. Next, draw a small line under the rim of your lower eyelid and smudge this shadow downwards, away from your eye. Be gentle – remember that blending thoroughly is the key to pulling off this look.

Extra-Long Lashes

Long, supple lashes add a hint of drama and mystery to your look, and they're a great way to finish off a bright or smoky eye. Look for mascara products that claim to separate and extend your lashes and, if possible, purchase a few different types to see which gives you the best results. If you aren't getting the look you're after with mascara alone, you may want to consider false eyelashes. Don't worry that you'll end up looking like Joan Rivers – there are several smaller sets available today that will blend seamlessly into your natural lashes.

Red Lips

Bright red lipstick is a classic look that can add a touch of glam to your prom night look. If you've never tried this head-turning look, don't worry – there's a perfect red for everyone. If your skin has warm undertones, look for a red with orange tints, while cool toned gals should shoot for lipstick with a bluish tint. However, if you do choose to go with a bold lip, keep the eyes subtle. Bright red lips with a smoky eye will make you look like you're trying to hard.