MakeUNDER: Take Off the Mask!

Halloween is a great time to go all out with wild costumes and makeup--but it's not Halloween yet. So why are you wearing a mask? You're not? Well, your clown costume is really cute. Oh, it's not a costume? Um...

Yes, bold is great sometimes. I'm in full support of the over-the-top looks from Dolly Parton, Charo and the cast of Cirque du Soleil, but there's no need to spend so much time and money on an everyday look. If "clown face" IS your everyday look, check out our Halloween deals. If not, here are a few tips for making yourself UNDER, so you have a natural, confident look that won't have strangers offering you mini candy bars.

Ditch the Foundation

A great way to save time and money in your makeup regimen is to eliminate foundation from your everyday makeup. It doesn't let your skin breath and can really contribute to the mask effect.
Instead, try dotting problem areas with concealer, then using a translucent powder to set your look. If you need more coverage, a tinted moisturizer evens skin tone with a subtle look. Bare Escentuals makes breathable, natural makeup that looks subtle enough for everyday wear.

Just Say "No" to Matte Lipstick and Lipliner

Many women sport lip liner and lipstick and get the opposite effect they are hoping for. Matte lipstick can make lips look smaller, and lip liner can settle into fine lines around the mouth, adding years to your face. Try a sheer lipstick or lip gloss, like Smashbox Lip Treatment, to give your lips a shine, not a shellac.

Draw the Line

Unless you're goth, you can probably ease up on the dark liner for your everyday look. It can smear, making your naturally lovely eyes look tired. If you must define your eyes, try a little just on the top lid, concentrating on the outside. Try a liner from Benefit, and use one of our Benefit coupons to save 15%.

Don't Spend on Trends

Don't pick out new pieces for your wardrobe based on what attracts you on the rack, pick pieces that look attractive on you. If the harem pant trend doesn't flatter you (and who DOES it flatter, really?), skip it and stick with structured pants that show off your figure. Check out the great New York & Company sale to stock up on basics.

Spotlight One Piece

Although your rain boots, bolero jacket, Flava Flav clock necklace and patterned tights are all adorable, it's hard for me to see the look you're going for because there's so much happening. Get a better result by highlighting one standout piece and choosing figure flattering basics that make it shine. The eye knows where to go, so you can accentuate your favorite features. Save up to 70% on eye-catching accessories at Banana Republic to polish off your look.

Get the Message

The other day at H&M, I tried on a rocking red skirt that was a great price and fit pretty well. But when I looked in the mirror, all I could think was "Ally McBeal Villain." Carmel L., a stylist friend of mine and consummate class act, advises women to look not just at the fit and price of an item, but the message it conveys. Does it say "Confident Lady" or "Fashion Victim?" Just because it fits your frame, doesn't mean it fits your personality. A few moments of thought can save you space in your closet occupied by an item of clothing you'll never wear.

Don't change your signature style, just refine it. You'll save yourself time and money and look more elegant in the process. Any other tips on giving yourself a makeunder? Leave 'em in the comments below! And follow me for the best beauty deals on Twitter @SavingsMBones.