Filed under the category of “clichés we hate to admit are true” is one adage mama always told us: less is more. Even though we fully support mega lashes, bold cheeks and statement eye makeup, each day calls for something unique, and sometimes there’s nothing better than a fresh, minimalist take on beauty. To help you channel your subtle side, here are four ways to make under your look.

Sculpted Curls for Tousled Waves

Be ahead of the trend by swapping your perfectly coiled curls for the tousled tresses that were all over the Spring 2014 runways at New York Fashion Week. The look is Kate Moss chic, with a major sprinkling of sex appeal.

If your hair is naturally wavy (lucky you) mist your damp strands with a texture spray—we like Kérastase Spray À Porter—and let your hair air dry. Working with curly or straight hair? Follow these steps laid out by stylist Odile Gilbert for a perfectly undone mane.

 

Glitter to Shimmer

While we have a newfound crush on heavily gilded lids, the look may be a bit too much for certain settings. To take it down a notch, trade your glitter for a subtle shimmer eye shadow, and apply from the crease down, for a clean look.

MDC Picks: Urban Decay Eyeshadow in Maui Wowie; Lancôme Color Design Sensational Effects Eye Shadow in Snap; NYX Cosmetics Glam Eyeshadow in Ash 

 

Bright Blush to a Pinch of Pink

This summer we’ve been all about fuchsia, hot pink, and candy colored cheeks, but sometimes a pinch of pink goes a lot further than a burst of color. Swap your brights out for a subtle, peachy pink worn just on the apples of your cheeks. The look is feminine, subdued and just enough to brighten your skin.

MDC Picks: L’Oréal True Match Blush in Baby Blossom; Giorgio Armani Sheer Blush in Pink; bareMinerals READY Blush 

 

Lipstick to Tinted Balm

No one will ever stop us from collecting (cough, hoarding) lipsticks, but sometimes your pucker needs a respite. For those moments that simplicity reigns supreme, slap on a tinted lip balm for moisture and a hint of color. Backstage at New York Fashion Week, celebrity makeup Artist Alice Lane advised us to let the balm go slightly past the edges of your lips for a little extra sex appeal.

MDC Picks: Maybelline Baby Lips in Peach Kiss; Korres Lip Butter; The Body Shop Born Lippy Stick Plum

 

Are you in the mood to make under your look? Share your thoughts with us below!

Photo: Thinkstock