As much as we love a sculpted cheekbone, that ultra-sharp contour is starting to take a backseat for this fall and winter. Instead, celebrity makeup artists are embracing a softer approach with minimal contour, using strategically placed shadows that subtly define the face without looking overly sculpted. That’s not to say contour is going anywhere but it just has a time and place. As we transition out of bronzed, summer skin, dialing back on the cheekbones feels especially fitting for the cooler months ahead. Today, we’re breaking down how to create a minimal contour base that still gives your face plenty of dimension.
Minimal Contour
A minimal contour moment works just as well with barely-there makeup as it does with a full beat. For something in between, try a flawless base, clean eyes, and a bold red lip. The classic autumnal combo feels even more elevated when paired with minimal contour. Start with a medium-to-full coverage foundation, followed by concealer under the eyes. Set everything with loose powder, then dust away any excess before moving on to contour. Using a cool-toned contour stick, lightly trace along the cheekbones and both sides of the temples before blending thoroughly. The goal is the faintest hint of shadow! It should be so subtle it’s almost impossible to tell where the contour begins. Finish with a soft wash of red blush across the apples of the cheeks.
Finishing Touches
Groom your brows, then sweep a light matte brown shadow across the lids for subtle definition. Line the upper waterline, curl your lashes, and finish with a lengthening mascara. For the final touch, line your lips with a ruby red liner before topping them with a matching red lipstick.
By embracing minimal contour, you subtly lift and define the face while letting the other features shine.
Susan is an experienced fashion and beauty writer with a knack for sharing insider tips and tricks. With a wealth of industry knowledge and a passion for all things style-related, she is here to guide you on your fashion and beauty journey. Susan has attended several fashion weeks and gained a behind-the-scenes look at countless beauty teams, witnessing the magic that happens both on and off the runway. Having collaborated with top beauty brands and ghostwriting for renowned influencers, there's no doubt she has valuable insights into the exclusive world of fashion and beauty. Susan's distinctive voice combines an editorial edge with a conversational and lighthearted tone, making her advice accessible and enjoyable. She understands that fashion and beauty are about self-expression and feeling confident in your own skin so she is committed to empowering you to embrace your own aesthetic and enhance your inner beauty. Tune into her musings to stay up to date on the latest fashion obsessions, discover beauty secrets, and obtain expert advice that will make you feel like a superstar on the daily. Whether you're seeking fashion-forward tips, the perfect skincare routine, or a dose of style inspiration, Susan has you covered. Get ready to decode the hottest trends and uncover game-changing products with her guidance.
After years of heavily sculpted cheekbones and sharp definition, the pendulum is swinging towards minimal contour. We’re here for the barely-there, natural warmth that…
Alexa Chung’s Reformation collaboration brings floral velvet sets, lace dresses, tailored outerwear and strappy heels to a collection inspired by her wardrobe.
Photo via @sofiatilbury
