If you want staying power, then matte is where it’s at!

Preparation is a key factor if you want your makeup to last. Start by cleansing, toning and moisturizing your skin, and then apply a primer and long-wearing (matte or semi-matte) foundation.

Hot tip! To minimize break-through shine, dust a mattifying powder over your foundation, paying particular attention to the T-zone. To avoid the cakey look, apply it with a very soft, large powder brush.

Cool trick! When your face feels hot … blot! Powder-coated blotting papers are a handbag must-have. They are lightweight and portable, which makes them the ultimate touch-up tool for girls on the go!

My product picks: Diorskin Forever by Dior is my favorite matte foundation. If you want a flawless, shine-free, long-lasting base that won’t budge … this is it! For a fresh, smooth-looking, slightly dewy complexion, choose Chanel’s Pro Lumière or Lancôme’s Photôgenic Lumessence foundation. Both of these stay put and give the skin a perfect semi-matte satin finish.

Sneak a peek! I used Pro Lumière foundation by Chanel in the Gothic Glamor look. For application tips, see page 6 of the Gothic Glamor eBook.