Soft Glam or Full Glam? Know Your Look.

Soft glam and full glam are two of the most requested looks in a makeup artist’s chair, and they couldn’t be more different. One is about looking like the best version of yourself. The other is about making an entrance.

Knowing the difference helps you ask for exactly what you want, and helps your makeup artist deliver it.

What is soft glam?

Soft glam is polished but natural. Think of skin that looks fresh and even, softly defined eyes, brushed-up brows and a lip colour that stays close to your own.

• Base: light to medium coverage with a healthy glow.
• Eyes: warm, blended neutrals and a soft liner or a little mascara.
• Brows: groomed and natural.
• Lips: soft nudes, rosy tones or a gloss.

What is full glam?

Full glam is the full statement look: flawless coverage, sculpted features, dramatic eyes and a defined lip.

• Base: fuller coverage with contour, highlight and blush.
• Eyes: deeper or shimmering shadow, sharper liner and fuller lashes.
• Brows: defined and shaped.
• Lips: a bolder colour or a precisely lined finish.

How to decide which one is for you

• The occasion. A daytime event, a birthday lunch or a graduation shoot may suit soft glam. A gala, a wedding party or a night out may call for full glam.
• The lighting. Bright daylight shows everything, so softer looks can feel more natural. Evening events and camera flash can handle more drama.
• Your outfit and hair. A detailed outfit or statement hairstyle may pair best with a softer face. A simple outfit can carry a bolder look.
• How you want to feel. Choose the look that makes you comfortable and confident for hours, not just for the first photo.

How to prepare for your appointment

• Arrive with clean, moisturised skin unless your makeup artist asks for something different.
• Bring two or three photos of looks you like, and one you don’t, so your artist can see your boundaries.
• Tell your makeup artist about allergies, sensitivities or skin conditions before they begin.
• For a big event such as a wedding, consider booking a trial ahead of time so there are no surprises on the day.

Ask about shade matching

A great base depends on the right shade and undertone. It’s completely reasonable to ask a makeup artist about their experience working with your skin tone and to look at examples of their work before you book.

You can mix and match

The two looks aren’t strict categories. Many people ask for soft glam with a bold lip, or full glam eyes with a natural base. Describe the mood you want and let your makeup artist suggest how to get there.

Making your makeup last

A look that lasts starts with skin that’s prepared. Cleanse and moisturise beforehand, and ask your makeup artist about primer and setting products if you’ll be wearing makeup for a long event. Heat, humidity and tears all test makeup, so tell your artist how long you need it to last and what the conditions will be.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Trying something brand new on the day. If it’s a big event, test the look first.
• Skipping skin prep. Even the best products sit better on moisturised skin.
• Only bringing photos of a finished look. Explain what you like about it, such as the eyes, the skin or the lip.
• Not mentioning your outfit and hair. The makeup should work with them, not against them.

A note on comfort

Whichever look you choose, you should feel comfortable wearing it. If something feels heavy, itchy or too much, say so during the appointment. A good makeup artist wants you to love the finished result and would rather adjust it than have you feel uneasy.

Find your makeup artist

Browse makeup artists near you on Combs & Clippers, compare their services and book the look you have in mind.