We all know that guys don’t like a girl plastered thick with makeup. Yet on the other hand, a girl who looks like she just rolled out of bed may not make the best first impression. Guys aren’t so into the deliberate and severe look but want a girl who cares about her upkeep. How do you find the perfect balance between I’m-sexy-and-I-care-about-how-I-look and take-me-as-I-am-or-bust?

Eyes– Studies have shown that guys are attracted to women whose eyes are shaded darker than the rest of their face. Apparently, throughout all ethnic groups women have a darker eye-skin contrast than do men. Men, therefore, are innately attracted to this specifically feminine feature. Go smoky on your eyes by outlining them with something dark and dusting on a shadow at least a shade darker than your regular skin tone. Since a summer face is light and refreshing, don’t go too dark with your shades and always feel free to add a little summery shimmer!

Lips– A thick layer of lipstick tastes yucky and will get all over him, so he’s likely to be attracted to something a bit more subtle than a deep, dark smudge on your lips. Guys are attracted to shiny lips – makes them look plump and highly kissable! Smooth on a light colored lipstick and then seal it in with a high gloss finish. Alternatively, head straight to a shiny gloss with color and skip the lipstick altogether.

Skin – A light foundation and a light sweep of a natural blush should be all you need to even out your skin tone and leave you looking fresh-faced and beautiful. Good summer colors include anything in the peachy or coral range, always allowing for a little shimmer. You want to look natural and sun-kissed, so skip anything that’ll leave you cakey and with too much color. Especially in hot weather when heat can lead to a sweaty makeup disaster, keep things minimal.

For a great summer look stay natural, light, and shimmery and the guys will come a runnin’!