Focus on the Lashes
Reiss-Andersen says playing up the lash line is vitally important because it’s what people see first. Always curl lashes before applying your favorite mascara—ideally in a waterproof formula (we’re loving Make Up For Ever’s Aqua Smoky Lash and Urban Decay Cannonball Ultra Waterproof Mascara ($20). A lot of glasses-wearers tend to get warm because glasses trap some of the body heat that usually escapes, so the waterproof formulas are a must. Or do as Reiss-Andersen does and skip the mascara altogether, just turn to Latisse for naturally longer, fuller lashes.
Be Bold With Your Glasses, Not Your Eye Makeup
“Glasses are the new nails,” states Reiss-Andersen, who urges women to be bold with their glasses, rather than their eye makeup. “When you’re wearing glasses, you already have a lot going on, so keep the eye makeup simple. Stay away from strong colors.” She prefers neutral tones on glasses-wearers and notes that shimmery shadows may not translate as well as matte eye shadows.
Find The Right Fit
One of the biggest complaints we hear from girls who wear glasses is that their frames leave marks on their noses. Unfortunately, Reiss-Andersen doesn’t have a miracle fix for this dilemma. Her advice? “Find glasses that fit your face.” If demarcation is your number one concern, choosing frames with nose pads may be your best bet. And remember, your glasses should never rest on your cheeks.
Change Your Blush Formula, Not the Placement
Your application should stay the same, but follow Reiss-Andersen’s lead and opt for cream blush over powder formulas. Once powder blush is applied, the pigment is set in place. Cream formulas are subtler and can easily be re-blended with your finger. Try Jouer’s Cheek Tint ($20) or RMS Beauty’s Lip2Cheek ($36) and simply set it with a dusting of translucent powder.
Tailor Your Liner To Your Frames
When it comes to eyeliner, Reiss-Andersen reminds you to consider the shape of your glasses. Perfecting a killer cat eye, only to find your frames cover the beautiful wing would be a major letdown. She also says to be mindful of the lenses. Some lenses are magnifying, which will make whatever eye makeup you choose (and any mistakes you make) even more visible.
Experiment, But Always Selfie Check
Reiss-Andersen left us with this last piece of sage advice: “Glasses are very flirty and sexy, so wear them with confidence.” Experiment and have fun with it, but do a “selfie check” with glasses on before heading out the door to make sure your look works as well as you think it should.
