Making Faces (applying makeup)

Published by Little, Brown and Company, 1999, softcover, illustrated, 160 pages, 23 cms x 30.5 cms, condition: very good.

The classic -- and gorgeous -- bestseller from one of the most influential makeup artist in history.

Kevin Aucoin shares his secrets, explaining not only the basics of makeup application and technique but also how to use the fundamentals to create a wide range of different looks.

The obvious aim of this book is to show people how to apply make up, which it does very well. What makes it worthwhile is all the ways it goes above and beyond that basic goal. The photography is beautiful (it's worth looking at just for that). Kevyn Aucoin's story of growing up, the stories of his siblings, and their role in the development of his talent is compelling and inspiring.

After the section on basics, there's a section of "looks" developed for ordinary people (male and female) alongside their own stories, which makes the book very accessible for those who might feel distant from the subject. The next section, which is entirely celebrities, is more "glamorous" but gives you the details of how to acheive those looks as well.

I got this book thinking I should wear more makeup so I won't be mistaken for an undergrad all the time, but it left me feeling like makeup is not necessary at all. I was pleasantly surprised to learn that it's a book about feeling comfortable with yourself, no matter how made up you are.