beginner series: four essential blush shades

It can be a little overwhelming. Using makeup for the first time can be both thrilling and totally terrifying. What colours are best? Which brands work well? There are so many questions and finding the answers often feels impossible. Don't worry! That is what this beginner series is all about. If you are just dipping your toes into the wonderful world of makeup, you might have some questions about blush shades. There are plenty of individual blush pans lining the shelves and just as many blush palettes. What do you actually need? Here are four essential blush shades that will cover your bases. From neutral looks to evening wear and everything in between.

Essential Blush Shade #1: Soft Neutral Pink

Perhaps the most important blush shade to start with is a soft neutral pink. If you only plan on buying one blush for right now...this should be it. A neutral pink is essential for a couple of reasons. For starters, it is universally flattering. It suits a number of different undertones and skin colours. This particular shade adds a healthy flush of colour to the face - but doesn't look overwhelming or too heavy. One drugstore option to consider is the shade Blushing from Elf ($3 CDN). A high end choice is Desert Pink from Bobbi Brown ($41 CDN).

Essential Blush Shade #2: Peachy Coral 

Next up on the list is a blush shade that effortlessly adds a gorgeous wash of colour. A peachy coral shade is ideal for the spring and summer months. It is easy to wear and can be paired with a wide variety of eyeshadow and lipstick choices. Apply a small amount to the apples of the cheeks to add a glowing finish to your makeup look. Some product suggestions include: Radiant Peach from Elf ($6 CDN) or Peach Pop from Clinique ($33 CDN).

Essential Blush Shade #3: Bronze Glow

If you are worried about choosing the right blush shade, consider something warm and bronzed. While traditional bronzer is used to shape and contour the face...a bronzed blush shade adds warmth and that little extra glow to the skin. It is a wonderful choice for the summer months. Or if you just want to give your skin a little something extra! Choose a bronze blush with a golden glowing finish to snag a blush and highlight in one. Some examples to consider are Long Weekend from Revolution ($11 CDN) or Luminous Bronze Light by Hourglass ($34 CDN).

Essential Blush Shade #4: Warm Plum

Rounding off this list of essential blush shades is a nice warm plum colour. This can work with a lot of different makeup looks - especially during the winter months. It is warm, rich, and works well with an evening look. Want something dramatic but still easy to wear? This is your best bet. One drugstore item to try is Deep Plum by NYX ($7 CDN). If high end is more your speed, then try Plum Gorgeous by Clinique ($30 CDN).

Does blush seem overwhelming? Not sure where to begin? Add one or all of these essential blush shades to your collection and you will be ready for any and all special events.