Men’s makeup is still something of a divisive issue: some see it as completely fine all the time (wear what you want after all), whereas some are firmly against what they seeing as blurring gender identities. Me? Well, I think if you want to wear it, go for it, no one’s stopping you and it often makes quite a difference to both appearance and confidence . Having said that, sometimes I just don’t think it’s necessary (just as I think girls don’t always need it either), so here’re my quick tips on when and where a bit of makeup works and when it doesn’t.
Please understand that this isn’t a “you should/not do x”, rather a “I probably would/n't advise it” and that if wearing makeup is something you enjoy, then there can be no recommendation higher that you should.
Don’t - Dinner Parties
The more I progress through my twenties, the more dinner parties I seem to be invited to. Now, it doesn’t matter whether I’ve come out in a some form of horrid rash or am being plagued by spots, makeup is a definite avoid. In close proximity, there’s no escaping what you are wearing, and while this is fine for some, I’m willing to bet not all of your friends might see it this way. No one will like every aspect of a friend, but they do like the person underneath; make sure to not rub anyone’s face in a situation they might find uncomfortable.
Do - Clubs
On a night out, you always want to look your best without drawing attention to the fact you’re trying to do just that. I know this isn’t the easiest thing to pull off, but a little subtle makeup can work wonders in these sorts of situations. Smooth out your features with a little foundation; you’ll get the look you desire without going overboard - it’s all about highlighting what you have, not covering it up.
Don’t - Job Interviews
You never know how well anyone will take to a man in makeup - they may just shrug it off, and this is certainly an increasing trend thankfully, or they may think you a little odd. Obviously, setting anyone the wrong way when you’re interviewing for a job isn’t a smart move; appear as bland as possible aesthetically and let your personality shine through.
Do - Office Night Outs
You have the job, no fear. No one expects you not to be yourself when not in the office (phew - that was a lot of negatives, sorry), so take the opportunity to show your colleagues the types of thing you’re into. As far as makeup goes, I’d be willing to bet a good deal of them are very agreeable and will view you favourably as a bold trend setter and all that. Never hurts to have a positive reputation.
Don’t - Sporting Occasions
An obvious one really - avoid looking out of place if you don’t want to get punched.
Do - Almost Anything Not Sport Related
Most events celebrate the diversity of their attendees, and lots of folks consider themselves cultured by speaking to those who dress differently. Use social occasions to do a little bit of networking and play/prey on the assumptions of others. Sounds a bit devious, but take what you can get.
Please understand that this isn’t a “you should/not do x”, rather a “I probably would/n't advise it” and that if wearing makeup is something you enjoy, then there can be no recommendation higher that you should.
Don’t - Dinner Parties
The more I progress through my twenties, the more dinner parties I seem to be invited to. Now, it doesn’t matter whether I’ve come out in a some form of horrid rash or am being plagued by spots, makeup is a definite avoid. In close proximity, there’s no escaping what you are wearing, and while this is fine for some, I’m willing to bet not all of your friends might see it this way. No one will like every aspect of a friend, but they do like the person underneath; make sure to not rub anyone’s face in a situation they might find uncomfortable.
Do - Clubs
On a night out, you always want to look your best without drawing attention to the fact you’re trying to do just that. I know this isn’t the easiest thing to pull off, but a little subtle makeup can work wonders in these sorts of situations. Smooth out your features with a little foundation; you’ll get the look you desire without going overboard - it’s all about highlighting what you have, not covering it up.
Don’t - Job Interviews
You never know how well anyone will take to a man in makeup - they may just shrug it off, and this is certainly an increasing trend thankfully, or they may think you a little odd. Obviously, setting anyone the wrong way when you’re interviewing for a job isn’t a smart move; appear as bland as possible aesthetically and let your personality shine through.
Do - Office Night Outs
You have the job, no fear. No one expects you not to be yourself when not in the office (phew - that was a lot of negatives, sorry), so take the opportunity to show your colleagues the types of thing you’re into. As far as makeup goes, I’d be willing to bet a good deal of them are very agreeable and will view you favourably as a bold trend setter and all that. Never hurts to have a positive reputation.
Don’t - Sporting Occasions
An obvious one really - avoid looking out of place if you don’t want to get punched.
Do - Almost Anything Not Sport Related
Most events celebrate the diversity of their attendees, and lots of folks consider themselves cultured by speaking to those who dress differently. Use social occasions to do a little bit of networking and play/prey on the assumptions of others. Sounds a bit devious, but take what you can get.
Phil : Appointedd
Phil is writer on all things beauty, fashion and health. He does a lot of painting and is really intrigued with how makeup and nail art can learn from classical art (and sometimes the other way around too). If you have questions or comments for Phil, feel free to connect with him on Twitter!
Very interesting post! I have learnt a thing or two which a few men would definitely need to take note of :)
ReplyDeleteI thought so too!! I love having guest bloggers! Their writing styles and topics bring more life to my blog. :)
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