My Go-To Makeup Routine for Valentine’s Day with Subtl
Whether you're headed out for a cute Valentine’s date, a girls' night, or just getting glammed up for fun, I’ve got you covered with a makeup routine that’ll keep you looking fab all night long. And the best part? I’m using my Subtl stak, which has everything I need in just 7 products. My makeup bag used to be overflowing—now it’s light and easy, and I’m here for it.
Step 1: Bronzer That Lifts
I start by getting my base all blended in, and then it’s time to go in with my cream bronzer. I’m using Subtl’s concealer in shade 021N. Quick hack—if you want a great cream bronzer, just grab a concealer 2 or 3 shades darker than your skin tone. It gives you the perfect bronzed look without the heavy powder.
Here’s a trick: apply it just underneath your cheekbones but a little higher to lift your face. I love how well these blend in. They look so natural, it’s like you’ve been on a sunny vacation.
By the way, did you know Subtl’s founder, Rachel, came up with this brand because she needed something easy to use when she was in the early stages of her relationship and staying overnight with her now husband? At one point, she even considered naming it “Ho on the Go”—and honestly, I’m still here for that name.
Step 2: Cream Blush for a Pop of Color
Now, let’s talk about blush. I always reach for my Bordeaux On the Go Lip and Cheek. I’m obsessed with this shade. You can tell by how scratched the surface is—I've used it that much. It’s a deep burgundy that looks amazing on brown skin, and honestly, it’s perfect for Valentine’s Day.
Also, I always add a little blush on my nose to give that sunburnt look like I’ve been on a tropical vacation. It’s a vibe, trust me.
Step 3: Setting Spray to Keep It Locked
Alright, we’re getting into the good stuff. If you want your makeup to last all night, find a setting spray that works for you and spray it twice—once when your makeup is still wet and then again when you’re done with powders. This helps lock everything in and ensures your look stays fresh.
Step 4: Powder to Set and Control Shine
Now, before you apply powder, make sure you blend out any creases under your eyes, especially where you applied concealer. Once you apply powder, it’s set. So, take a little extra time to smooth out those lines to avoid any creasing. I always use a puff to press in my setting powder because it gives me a smoother finish. And don’t forget to powder your T-zone (where you tend to get oily) to keep everything in place.
Step 5: Layering Bronzer and Blush
Let’s move on to some more bronzing action. I use Subtl’s Cocoa Bronzer to go over the cream bronzer I applied earlier. It adds a little more definition to my face. Just a bit of cocoa on the cheeks, forehead, and nose, and I’m good.
For blush, I’m all about layering. I love to pair Bordeaux On the Go with Pink in a Pinch powder blush. It’s my favorite pink blush, and it gives me a subtle but pretty pop of color. It’s perfect when I want to look fresh and awake but not overdone.
Step 6: Eyes, But Make It Simple
For my eyes, I keep it super simple. I’m not a huge eyeshadow person, but when I want to glam it up, I just grab my Cocoa Bronzer again and blend it into my crease with a fluffy brush. If you’re not super comfortable with eyeshadow, this is a hack you need to try. It looks natural and blends so well.
Then, I go in with Subtl’s Flight Eyeshadow Duo. I love the shimmer in this—it's not too glittery, but it gives the perfect shine without being over-the-top. I just press a little onto my lids and blend the edges to keep it soft.
Step 7: Glow That Pops
I can’t forget my highlight! Subtl’s Rosé Cream Highlighter is my go-to. It’s a universal shade that works on all skin tones (trust me, it doesn’t look frosty at all!). I apply it to the high points of my cheeks, my brow bone, and a little on the tip of my nose for that glowing, dewy finish.
Step 8: Brows and Setting Spritz
For brows, I always wait until the end to apply my brow gel with the 3-in-1 Brow BFF tool. I don’t like applying powder on top of wet gel because it can get clumpy. I lift my brows up, then push them down to get the perfect shape.
Once my brows are done, I finish off with another spritz of setting spray. It’s a game-changer to lock everything in place, and it helps everything stay put, even through the night.
Step 9: Lip Gloss with a Hint of Rose
Lastly, I keep it simple with my lips. I’ve been loving Subtl’s Rosé Cream Highlighter on my lips. It’s so smooth and gives a subtle, frosty finish without feeling gritty. It’s not heavy, so I love using it as a lip topper or just on its own for a more natural look. If you want to make it extra cute, add a little gloss on top for that perfect sheen.
And That’s It!
And that’s my full Valentine’s Day makeup routine using my Subtl stak. It’s so easy and gives me that natural, long-lasting glow. Plus, I’ve been using these products for a minute now, so you know they’re tried and true! If you want more tips or just want to dive deeper into makeup tutorials, check out Subtl’s YouTube channel for more videos.
Until next time!
Niara Alexis
