Make up basics or for beginners?

So, I know the Clinique counter often has events where you come and learn a new look and get to take home a treat. You might ask them. If you really like Sephora, I think they will do a "makeover" type lesson for you (I think it "costs" $50 but you get that back to spend on product... or maybe it's that you have to buy $50 in product, but that's super easy).

If you want to go for a foundation type product, you might try a BB or a CC cream-- they tend to be lighter weight, a little more sheer, and kinda foolproof. I like the BB cream from Dr. Jart a lot. (I like Tarte's BB cream as well but the Dr Jart is a better color match for me.)

Make an appointment for a full makeup session at Sephora. It's easy to spend 50 dollars on makeup and tools. (Tools are important.)

At 52, you probably won't be happy with a smokey eye. I'm 55 and I find that darker eyeshadow and eyeliner just make me look older and more tired. Don't be afraid to try color though.

For me, the key items in my makeup wardrobe are blush, brow filler (Gimme Brow by Benefit is my favorite), a natural-looking mascara, and liquid foundation or BB cream.

Prep is important too. Uses good moisturizer. It doesn't have to be expensive. I use CeraVe. It's as good, if not better, than any expensive moisturizer I've tried. I recently started using a primer. I like it, but can live without it. But, eyelid primer is essential.

For eyeshadow, I recommend starting with a three shade palette. It will be easier for a beginner.

Oh, you will need lips too. As a mature person, I think you will be happier focusing color on the lips and cheeks while keeping the lids a bit lighter than what's in fashion now.

I am a makeup addict. Unlike clothes, makeup always fits. I do like the makeup lessons at Sephora because they use a variety of brands and work to make the individual look great rather than making everyone look alike.

Have fun!

Also what hennybutton said about smokey eyes not always looking good... try doing to smokey eye with tans, browns, mochas instead of silver grey and blacks.
It is not as harsh and doesn't drag the eyes down as much. I find it more youthful. I prefer it myself

I encourage you to browse around the site. I just found this page

www.marykay.com/en-us/tips-and-trends/makeover-and-beauty-tools/virtual-makeover?iad=hp_std_vmo

You can upload a pic of yourself and do a virtual makeover. Or you can just use one of the models. They may have other cool things and more looks, too.

Lisa Eldridge is who I always recommend. A professional with a great way of putting the info across in an easy to grasp way imo.

There are hundreds of her video tutorials - the page I linked is her Basics - just scroll down and watch whichever takes your fancy first!

I was going to recommend her, the peas are always talking about her. 

I on the other hand am a big fan of Chrisspy, I bought all the colors in this look and its now my regular look. www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZLqxa0XwGVc&t=156s
She's really blown up, major brands like MAC and Urban Decay have used her in their advertising, she gets flown all over the world to EXOTIC locations by beauty brands.

Love this thread and all of the suggestions.

I used to do my make-up very well when I was younger - meaning back in the 80s!!! Things have changed somewhat! Basically these days I wear only moisturizer, foundation and mascara. I am going to look at some of these instructions you ladies have suggested. Thanks!