I like to think of this look as non-touring, the opposite of contouring because bronzer and highlighter are used to achieve the look but not placed in the typical contouring places.
If you want to look like you just came back from St.Barth’s without the sun damage then this look is for you.
Start by prepping the skin with moisturizer and along the tops of cheekbones and down the center of the nose and chin massage in a highlighting balm, like this illuminating moisture balm from Bobbi Brown. The key is to get the skin to look glowy before starting the makeup.
Next even out the skin with a tinted moisturizer or foundation. Here I used Estee Lauder Double Wear Light Foundation as it is a very light texture but still evens out skin. Perfect for summer. You could use a drop of foundation one shade darker mixed in with your regular shade to give yourself a tan. Just make sure to blend well at the jaw and even down the neck.
Use concealer under eyes and on any blemishes as necessary. I like to use light reflecting concealer to keep the skin showing through and keeping the whole look light and fresh.
Using a bronzing powder on a large fluffy brush, dust from the temples across the cheeks, the center of the forehead and bridge of the nose. The goal is to place the bronzer where you would tan naturally which is the planes of the face you would normally highlight. The opposite of contouring! Here I used Guerlain Terracotta Bronzing Powder.
After you have dusted enough bronzer to look like you just got back from a sunny vacation, then you can use some highlighter on top. Just on the bridge of the nose and along the tops of cheekbones keeping it light and very natural. One of my favorite highlighters is Charlotte Tilbury Bronze Filmstar Bronze & Glow Palette.
For eyes, continue the bronzy look with a soft brown or bronze liner like Whiskey from Urban Decay to define the eyes and then add plenty of mascara.
For lips, keep it simple with a nude peachy creamy lipstick or gloss which will really highlight tanned skin (or faux-tanned skin!)
This is the technique I use when models arrive pale and pasty from NY and need to shoot on the beach the next morning. After a couple of cappuccinos, a green juice, and some non-touring, the models look like they just stepped off the plane from some fabulous island! And it can work for you too.