Tips I Learned From Drag Queens, Part I

I didn’t learn everything I know about makeup in cosmetology school. I’ve picked things up in many places over the years, but perhaps no source outside of school has given me more transformative tips than drag queens have. If you’ve ever watched the process of a man turning himself into a hyper-feminine glamazon, you know how powerful drag magic is. I probably wouldn’t use any of this for daily, casual, or professional looks, but when you absolutely, positively must be a bombshell, these drag queen gems are sure to make you sparkle. (Once I started listing them, I realized I had so many I need to split them into two posts, so look for Part II soon!)

Contouring. Drag queens practically invented contouring. If it can turn Wesley Snipes into Noxeema Jackson (or this chick into everyone from Rambo to Keith Richards), it can definitely give your cheekbones a little more definition. Or your cleavage. I’ve even seen contoured abs. It’s an art form all it’s own, really.

Cut creases. Sharp creases give the illusion of bigger eyes. This is the technique I use for smoky eyes when people shouldn't wear smoky eyes and want them anyway. (I am one of these people.) It takes a little practice to master. Here is a pretty good tutorial.

False lashes. Nothing glams you up faster than a big, wispy set of eye fringe. Double up for even more eye framing magic - a long, wispy set on top of a dark, thick set gives you the best of both worlds. or trim a second set down and only apply to the outer third of your lash line over the full set to open those babies up.

Shimmer on inner eye corners. Just a dab of light colored shimmer shadow or highlighter on the inner corners of your eyes catches light in a way that makes your eyes appear bigger, brighter, and more open. (Also helpful for hiding hangovers.)

To be continued...