Makeup for Dark Skin Tones in Vienna: a Gala Look with Glow and an Elegant Low Bun

I am often asked whether I have experience with makeup for dark skin tones and whether my kit includes suitable foundation shades. I take these questions seriously, because every client should feel well advised and in safe hands with me.

When working with dark skin tones, I pay particular attention to the right depth of colour, each client's individual undertone and how the pigments work together. The products should blend harmoniously with the complexion and leave the skin looking vibrant. I tailor textures and finishes to the condition of the skin and the desired look. Today, I would like to show how I put this into practice for a special occasion through this gala look.

From Moodboard to Personal Styling

My client C. K. from London attended an ‘Enchanted Forest’ gala in Vienna. Before the appointment, she emailed me a moodboard with reference images for makeup and hairstyling. We also considered her dress and accessories during the preparation.

This allowed us both to prepare for the appointment. We then agreed on the finer details in person: the intensity of the eye makeup, the effect of the lip colour and the final shape of the hairstyle. Together, these inspirations became a look that suited her and the occasion.

Makeup for Dark Skin Tones: Shade Depth, Undertone and a Vibrant Complexion

When choosing foundation, I consider more than how light or dark a shade is. The undertone and the transitions to the neck and décolletage also need to be right. I choose contour, blush and highlighter to complement them.

For this look, I used the Fenty Beauty Eaze Drop Blur + Smooth Tint Stick. I really enjoy working with this foundation stick: it blends beautifully, and its extensive shade range gives me plenty of options for an individual colour match. I particularly appreciate this choice when working with dark skin tones.

For contouring, I used Fenty sticks in a deeper shade to define the facial features precisely and add dimension to the complexion.

Blush and Highlighter: Colour and Glow Working Together

On the cheeks, I combined MAC Glow Play Blush with a powder blush by Valentino. I then added luminous accents with a highlighter by Lisa Eldridge.

The placement of colour and light was just as important as the choice of products. The complexion should look fresh and vibrant, while complementing the complete occasion styling.

Expressive Eyes with Individual Lashes

For the eye makeup, I first applied a 24-hour eye base by MAC, followed by TUSH Cream Eyeshadow and powder eyeshadows by MAC. The cream texture provided the base; I used the powder eyeshadows to set and further develop the look.

A black waterproof eye pencil by Urban Decay added definition to the eyes. Waterproof mascara by MAC and carefully placed Individual Lashes enhanced their expression. I filled in the eyebrows to give the face a beautiful frame.

Berry-Plum Lips and a Finish for the Gala Evening

I outlined and fully filled in the lips with a lip liner by Clinique, then applied a lip tint by Kryolan in a berry-plum shade to complement the occasion look.

I used setting powder by Numeric Proof only in selected areas where extra setting was needed. This preserved the desired glow on the rest of the face. I paid particular attention to setting areas that might come into contact with clothing, to reduce movement and smudging.

The final step was fixing spray by Charlotte Tilbury. It completed my approach to building long-lasting makeup for this special evening. For a gala or a long ball night, I carefully coordinate textures, application and setting.

Sleek Low Twisted Bun: Elegant and Tailored to the Look

For the hairstyle, I smoothed the hair with straighteners and added a gentle bend. I then swept it back and pinned it into a low Low Twisted Bun.

At the back, we finished the bun with a leaf-shaped hair accessory to complement the ‘Enchanted Forest’ theme.

The clean shape gave the face and statement earrings space and complemented the evening outfit. For hold and finish, I used Korean hairstyling products by JSOOP and UNOVE.

What Makes This Work Special to Me

I am delighted to be able to share this result. Especially during the ball season and for special events, it is a joy to help clients shine and feel good about their evening.

When a client recognises herself in her look and later tells me how comfortable she felt, it means a great deal to me. Feedback like this reminds me why I love my work and why I chose this path.

“[Jasmin] did my hair and makeup for an Enchanted Forest-themed gala in Vienna and brought the whole look together beautifully. I was absolutely delighted with the result and felt fabulous for the evening.”

Client C. K., London, Great Britain

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Your Makeup and Hairstyling for Balls and Galas in Vienna

My experience in TV, commercial and event productions also informs my work with private clients. Whether for a gala, the Vienna Opera Ball or another special occasion, we coordinate makeup and hairstyling to suit you, your outfit and your evening.

Discover services and prices for Vienna's ball season

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Appointment enquiries: jasmin@jasminka.at