Made up for Makeup

You bought the perfect dress (hopefully it was a Sherry Hill), and shoes to match. But in the past, you went to prom with lipstick on your teeth. Whip out those brushes and powders, ladies. It's time to make up with your makeup.

Here are some tips any girl can use to paint her own face for her next formal occasion. No need to waste a fortune at a salon. Open your vanity cabinets, turn on the spotlights, and let's get started.

First thing's first: wash up. A fresh face for a fantastic night.

Base: Always match your skin tone and never go too thick. No one wants to put a corsage on a clown.

Cover up: Once again, match your skin color. If you're pale, you're porcelain. If you're dark, you're ebony. Embrace the skin you're in and smooth out those stress blotches with a shade that's made for you.

Powder: Lightly dust your trouble oily spots, chin, cheeks, nose, forehead and revealed shoulders and chest. Emphasis on lightly.

Mascara: Now comes the fun part. Avoid spider leg lashes by using swift strokes from lash base to tip. Use brown mascara on bottom lashes no matter what. Everyone's bottom lashes are shorter than upper lashes. Curl if you want. Extensions are acceptable on big nights out. But try single lash attachments instead of a full eye for a more natural look. Plus, if one falls out, it's not as obvious.

Color: Choose colors that appear in nature. Avoid gaudy blues and purples. Don't try to match your pink dress to your blush or lipstick. No one can pull of Barbie, and no one wants you too. Instead, choose blush and lip colors that compliment your skin and eyes. Shimmery pinks and light beiges flatter fair, cool skin, while bronze and plumb favor warm skin tones. For olive skin, try pure browns and copper.

Lips: Thin-lipped gals should go with lighter shades, but pouty lips can sport deeper colors. Always match lipstick with lip liner.

Extras: For a special event, add a dash of sheer sparkle to your lids, cheeks, shoulders and chest. Give a little flair to your eyeliner at the crease and try a smoky-eyed look for kicks.

Number one rule: Less is more.

Use these tips to bat those lashes with confidence, and you'll be ready for any fancy event.