With a new school year coming up, it’s likely that you’re looking for ways to stand out on the first day. However, uniforms and dress codes can hamper your ability to express your own style, no matter what it is.

This is where makeup comes into play. With makeup, you can make your look pop without looking completely outrageous. With your makeup, you can look bold, yet subtle. There are three simple areas for you to add color no matter what skill level you’re at.

1. Cheeks | Intense Blush

A crème blush, which allows you to build and intensify a blush look, allows you to add a pop of color on super hectic days where you don’t have a lot of time for makeup at all.

Start with a neutral eye and a simple balm or gloss on the lips, then start building your blush. Start very lightly, allowing the blush to build naturally and avoiding a clown cheeks appearance that might arise if you go in with a heavy hand. Apply crème blush dry for a subtle glow or wet for a very intense color.

2. Lips | Bold Lipstick

If you want to stand out, you can use a super bold lip to match an outgoing personality. There are all sorts of colors and textures available for lipsticks, and the more vivid a lipstick color you can find, the better.

For this look, try to direct attention to the lips and avoid attracting attention to the eye makeup. Use neutrals for the eyeshadow and go with a simple eyeliner look to bring attention to your vivid lipstick. It may even become a staple of your look over time, and you might become known for using it.

Pro Tip: If you’re interested in standing out during spirit days, you’ll want something that matches a team uniform and a school shirt. Consider purchasing lipstick in one of your school’s colors. Not only will it complement a school shirt, but you’ll also stand out as having school spirit, which could be helpful if you’re doing something like running for class president.

3. Eyes | Colorful Liner

If you want to let your eyes do the talking instead, consider a colorful liner look. This adds individuality to your look without requiring too much skill or knowledge. You can simply do light, neutral eyes, then add a colorful, bold liner to them. There are two common ways to do this.

First, you can use a liquid liner to create a colorful wing or cat eye on the top of your eyes. This can be super quick and easy, especially if you just carry the liner with you. You might even be able to do it on the way to school.

Second, you can scrape some bold eyeshadow out of the palette, wet it with setting spray, then apply it with a firm pencil brush to the lower lash line. This is a bit more involved, but it will make your eyes absolutely glow.

Pro Tip: Understanding your eye shape is key to getting this look right. Try out different combinations, whether it’s on the outer corner of your top lid, the inner corner of your lash line, or something else entirely. By practicing a week before school starts, you’ll be ready for your first day.

Conclusion

Playing with color is one of the best ways to give yourself something special that helps you stand out. No matter what you’re standing out with, these three looks are all unique ways to stand out in your class.