How do I get my makeup to look like Kim Kardashian?

Meta Description: Kim is an icon and much-watched on social media for the way she puts herself together. Read on to pick up a tip or two that may give you a glow that edges towards, but doesn’t necessarily equal, her very own.

KEEPING UP WITH THE CAPTIVATION

Gaining immense fame from her appearance in the reality TV show, Keeping up with the Kardashians, Kim Kardashian West has inspired many women with her fabulous looks and incredible makeup style. In fact, her striking appearance makes a brilliant argument for switching to mineral powder foundation, assuming you have not yet given this relatively new product a whirl.



While many Instagram stars and TikTok influencers have taken to their social media feeds of late to give insight into their beauty and makeup regimes, Kim is no mere influencer. First up, she has a following on Instagram of 262 million, and, secondly, the guest bathroom she poses in to showcase the type of products she prefers, and the order in which she applies them is akin to a bathroom out of The Ritz-Carlton.

A secret Kim has shared with Allure.com, to which many other mums of young kids will relate (and hugely resonate) – is that hiding out in that particular bathroom (i.e. not her bedroom’s en-suite) gives her a bit of a break from their endless demands. North (age 8), Saint (age 6), Chicago (age 3), and Psalm (17 months) are the cutest ever, but still, a gal’s gotta seek a moment of sanity occasionally.

 

Order of proceedings

Kim begins with a foundation in Olive Beige and blends it across her skin using a small buffer brush. To conceal any imperfections (say what, she has imperfections just like the rest of us?), she applies a liquid concealer suited to her usual self-tanned complexion – which she sets in place with a beauty baking powder. “She bakes her face?”, you may query. Yes, most hotshot celebrities do. According to beauty blog Byrdie.com, “baking your face [involves] applying a setting or translucent powder to areas of the face that tend to crease over time. After applying the powder, you let it bake for five to 10 minutes, then dust off [any residue] for a flawless finish that lasts all day.” That’s the beauty of minerals at work over the many hours you hope to maintain your look.

Sayings to live by

Apparently, as the Kim K saying goes, “I hate it when women wear the wrong foundation color. It might be the worst thing on the planet when they wear their makeup too light.” Moral of the story? Choose your foundation wisely. Further to our star’s makeup application tutorial: while Kim allows the “baking” process to conclude, she works on her eyebrows – brushing them up and filling them in with brow pencil. Next, she contours in a Medium shade – targeting areas such as cheekbones, jawline, forehead, and nose; and then with a lighter shade for nose, forehead and cheekbones before blending with a beauty sponge.

Paraphernalia deluxe

“I have too many makeup brushes,” said no one ever, and “Makeup may come and go, but brush cleaning is forever” are two of the Nanshy.com sayings you may have come across in beauty circles. The same sentiment, of course, applies to sponges. Plenty of decent-quality ones that are kept scrupulously clean will serve you well and prevent any adult acne flare-ups. Brands to invest in, in the sponge department include the Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge (US$8.09), which is rated best for applying foundation fast. The Brushworks HD Multi Tasking Complexion Sponge (US$5.75) can be used wet or dry to apply powder, liquid, and cream products. Another highly affordable option is the Lottie London Blending Sponge (US$7.42), which features a tapered tip to blend concealer evenly around the eyes and nose. There are hundreds of others, of course, but your wallet is likely to shake and shiver at the price. The above options remain wallet-friendly, just as you like them.

Getting back to business

Returning, once again, to Kim’s makeup application tutorial: we’re now at the point of brushing aside any extraneous powder beneath her eyes and ensuring that her lashes are curled above and beyond with a lash-curler deluxe. The last few steps (and we’re excluding a few extraneous ones that any mere mortal may not have the time, or inclination, for) before Kim steps into any virtual event or red-carpet limelight: range from sweeping highlighter pigment down the bridge of her nose and onto her Cupid’s bow (best way to achieve a soft glow); use of a shimmers brush palette (in rosy) to encourage a “more youthful and awake” look; a new mini mascara that she can apply – wait for it – with her mouth closed and concluding with a skin mist and a nude lip liner.

To check out all the brands and details, you’re advised to go to Allure.com; or to seek out similar products and/or shades in the brands you personally favor.

Surprise and delight

Another famous quote of this prolific entrepreneur: “I love when people underestimate me and then become pleasantly surprised.” A close examination of Kim’s Enneagram Reading, which is just one amazing life-coaching tool that can shed light on this popular TV personality – reveals she is a Three personality with a Two wing.

So, according to Sosyncd.com, an Enneagram Three acts with his or her heart – making decisions squarely on the basis of emotion. Kim greatly values connections with others and providing support to those who do the same for her. Also, feeling appreciated and recognized is key to her levels of vitality. Enneagram Three is a personality that is “driven, enthusiastic and practical”; she works towards her goals, remains busy and active no matter her mood, and has truly amazing people skills. It’s no wonder her many fans watch her like a hawk, waiting for clues as to her inherent likeability and success.

But not all of us are cut out to be media personalities, socialites, models and businesswomen. This beauty has also founded her own beauty and fragrance businesses, making her all the more trustworthy in terms of what works on, and for, your skin in the long-term and how to outshine even (her mate) Paris Hilton.

Your makeup personality

If you’re looking for a trusted source of information on looks, don’t hesitate to follow this Libra – a star sign that represents a balanced and thoughtful approach to life. As well as being able to count on her to keep it real, Kim is detail-oriented – to the point of being a perfectionist. With this in mind, you may be able to sidestep some of the many processes she follows if you’re striving for a beach or workout look that’s effective but not too demanding on your limited time.

Brushstroke, and away you go.