Finding the perfect Halloween costume is never easy. And as local shops start to stock their shelves with the latest wigs, masks and clothing that reflects this year’s most popular TV characters, coming up with a creative look can seem impossible.
But why not enhance your costume this year with the help of a little makeup? To inspire some creativity, we chatted with local teen makeup artist Sydney Sikes, who gained popularity for her unique, bold and experimental looks on her Instagram page, @makeupbysydmarie, which has over 30,000 followers. She also won this year’s “Best Makeup Artist” category in Northern Virginia Magazine’s annual Best of NoVA issue.
Whether you’re heading to a costume party in the District or want to help your kid scare the neighbors, Sikes has you covered with these easy-to-do Halloween looks. See below for her tips.
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Pink Skeleton
Rather than starting with a bare face (no makeup), start with a base of makeup such as primer, foundation, concealer or powder to really get the full effect of your pink skeleton. This will help the pink pigment grab onto your face makeup, inevitably making the colors appear vibrant and give the illusion you are looking for. This tip can really be used for each of these Halloween looks to get the best results.
This look gets its dramatic effect by highlighting the high points on your face. Your cheekbones, nose, forehead, etc., which is accomplished through contouring. The highlighting and contouring enhance the contrast between the high points and the shape of your skull, giving it a spooky feel.
To make the teeth look realistic, start by drawing the outline of the teeth on your lips with straight lines (I use black). Next, fill in each tooth with a color of choice, rounding each tooth with the same color I use to draw the lines on the inside of the lips (black).
Red, Creepy Clown
Think outside the face! When creating Halloween looks, adding makeup to other parts of your body can really pull an entire look together. With this look, drawing thick vertical lines from the jawline to just below the collarbones really emphasizes the clown aesthetic.
Spooky Pumpkin
Is it pretty or is it scary? Make people question why they can’t stop looking at you! Combining elements of glamour and spooky makes this an eye-catching look. Never be afraid to keep some glam in your Halloween creations.
General Tips and Tricks
- Colored contacts can really put a look over the top. (Be sure to check with your doctor prior to using costume contacts.)
- Don’t be afraid to use color, however start lightly and build up. Something to help do this is tapping your brush after you pick up the color before applying to your face.
- Before heading to that Halloween party, always remember to lock that look in with setting spray. This will keep all your hard work from fading or smudging as you Monster Mash the night away!
