Blush Rules to Break

When I started wearing blush, I remember somehow knowing random rules...like the fact that you should "never pair bright blush with bright lipstick". And I just went with it.  Blush is particularly tricky, and it can be easy to fall into a rut with it. Most of us are just afraid of looking like a clown, prostitute, or some sort of hybrid clown-prostitute (trust me--they exist).

But of course there have been lots of updates over the years.  Here are a few old "blush rules", and how to break them!

Old Rule: Combat inevitable fading by reapplying blush.
New Rule: Layer on different formulas for extra longevity.
First, apply a primer and follow with a cream blush. Dust a powder blush on top and blend.

Old Rule: Steer clear of bright lipstick if you’re wearing blush.
New Rule: A bold lip and flushed cheeks can be a spectacular duo. Just make sure to pick complementary shades: Match the undertones of your lipstick to the blush and stick within the same color family. That means cool tones go with cool tones and likewise with warm tones. Coral blush and tomato-red lips? Go for it, girl!

Old Rule: Pick a shade and stick with it.
New Rule: Don’t be afraid to go outside your comfort zoneBright pink shades seem intimidating, but most of them go on fairly sheer. If you’re out to find a harmonious shade for your skin, gently pinch your cheeks and match that shade to your blush color.

Old Rule: Only apply blush to the apples of your cheeks.
New Rule: Blush isn't just for the cheeksFor a natural, unified flush, blend the pigment out towards your ears, dust a bit across the brow bone, and finish with a light swipe down the middle of the nose.

Old Rule: Never wear blush and bronzer at the same time.
New Rule: The pair actually looks great together as long as you don’t go overboard.
Once you've finished putting on blush, apply bronzer where the sun naturally hits your face: forehead, temples, the tip of your chin, and the bridge of your nose.