3 (Unexpected) Fall Makeup Ideas That Work on Everybody

What you'd expect: Dusty Rose

Surprise!

Bright Berry Cheeks

In the drama of makeup, cheek color often plays a supporting role, especially after summer. But this season it's ready to take center stage, with so many vivid berry blushes worthy of top billing. Here, Hathaway used Nars's latest shade, a rich gold-infused pink (Outlaw), and kept the rest of our model's makeup simple—a creamy taupe eyeshadow (she repurposed Make Up For Ever Waterproof Eyebrow Corrector in No. 0, $20; Sephora.com) and sheer rose lipstick (like Dior Addict Lipstick in Wild, $30; NeimanMarcus.com).

Pull It Off Like a Pro

Ace your base. Start with a tinted moisturizer or foundation to camouflage any ruddiness, which can be accentuated by a bold blush. An oil-free or matte formula will also serve as a good base to keep your blush from fading. Blot gently with a tissue to remove excess product.

Choose your texture. If your skin tends to get shiny, use a powder blush—it won't absorb oil and turn blotchy. For a softer effect, apply it with a large, fluffy brush. If your skin is dry, use a cream blush—but exfoliate first because a cream will accentuate flaky patches.

Think swirls, not stripes. Apply your blush in circular motions—starting on the apples of your cheeks and blending up and out toward your temples—to leave a natural wash of color. (Never apply your blush back and forth along your cheekbone, which creates a harsh line.)

Lip synch. Your lips should complement—not compete with—a vibrant cheek color. Choose a lipstick just a couple of shades deeper than your natural lip color.