Fashion

The Best Makeup For Sorority Recruitment

by Jessica Thomas
Young graduate preparing for the delivery of diplomas - Guatemala
ruizluquepaz/E+/Getty Images

The long, anticipation-filled process of preparing for sorority recruitment can seem daunting at first, but although the week is stressful while you're in it, the end result is almost always worth it. What to wear to sorority recruitment is probably at the top of your mind, but you're likely asking another question as well: What makeup should I wear to sorority recruitment? And after going through it once myself (and then three times on the other side), I'm here to fill you in.

First and foremost, don't feel like you need to put on a front and wear makeup if that's something you don't do normally. You should feel comfortable rocking whatever amount of makeup you're happy with. That being said, I know there are many people (myself included) who like the added boost of confidence that wearing makeup can bring. When my skin feels blotchy or I want to look more awake, I love that I can turn to tinted moisturizer or brightening concealer to make me look like a better version of myself. And after going through sorority recruitment four times, I have some tips and tricks that I've learned over the years that are recruitment-specific and will help you get through recruitment week flawlessly. (And keep in mind, these tips are geared toward people going through August recruitment, but they're handy no matter what.)

1. Wear Sunscreen

Cover FX Clear Cover Invisible Sunscreen, $45, S ephora

I feel like a broken record saying this, but at southern and Midwest schools like my alma mater, the University of Missouri, you spend a lot of time outside in the hot August sun waiting to enter sorority houses. And all that sun means sunburn is bound to happen if you don't apply the SPF to both your face and body. Trust me, wearing a strapless dress with sunburn lines isn't worth it. Use this clear sunscreen from Cover FX on your face and body — it's totally transparent, plus it moisturizes, brightens, nourishes, and protects.

2. Go For Sweatproof Everything

Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Concealer, $28, Sephora

You know what that hot, sunny weather means (other than sunburns)? Your makeup is likely going to be melting off your face. Stick with sweatproof, meltproof, waterproof makeup whenever possible.

3. Bring Powder To Touch Up

Benefit Cosmetics The POREfessional Agent Zero Shine, $30, Sephora

Do I have to say it's going to be hot again? Recruitment is going to be hot. If you pack a little compact with powder in it, you can de-grease and touch up your makeup between visits, and you'll feel fresh faced and ready to go.

4. Pack Mini Perfume

Sephora Favorites Mini Perfume Sampler, $65, Sephora

Smelling good always makes me feel a little bit more confident, and my next little tip is to pack a mini perfume in your clutch or bag. When you need a little boost, spritz it on. Don't go overboard, but a few strategic spritzes of perfume can be a game changer.

5. Wear Waterproof Mascara & Eyeliner

Eyeko Sport Waterproof Mascara, $25, Amazon

It may be a cliche to say, but recruitment can be an emotional experience, especially in the last several days. Emotions run high and only get higher as you narrow down your choices, and odds are you may tear up a few times throughout the week. You're def going to want to wear waterproof eye makeup just in case and the added bonus is that it won't melt off in the heat either.

6. Stick To Gloss Instead Of Lipstick

NYX Butter Gloss, $5, U lta

Although you can totally rock a red lip if that's what makes you feel confident, gloss is definitely easier to reapply throughout the day, and you won't be worried about your lipstick smearing, smudging or accidentally getting on your teeth.

Although it's most important to go into recruitment confident about who you are as a person, these tips will make you feel your best.

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