Spring is coming, but the beauty vibes throughout the fall/winter 2010/11 collections at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week have tempted me into near obsession about the cool trends (literally) I want to wear now!  Designer after designer previewed classic American beauty, washed into sultry tones of  soft metallic, smoky grays and  earthy browns, warm burnished corals, true reds and muted, pinky beige.  Created to accent, not overpower the fantastic array of textures, and flattering neutrals in the fashions, the makeup, hair and nail focus was on wearable, chic, contemporary style. Almost effortless for the everyday woman to replicate, the dominant trends are quick to apply and work seamlessly for play, office or after hours.  If you are on a beauty budget, (and who isn’t these days?) you will love these tricks from the trade!  Here are a few tips on how to get the most current runway looks, straight from backstage, without breaking the bank!

Runway beauty for less - Makeup - Runway

Sexy and sultry

A very popular look for eyes this fall/winter will be centered on the sexy.  At the Bebe fall/Winter 2010/11 show, featuring the Kim, Khloe and Kourtney Kardashian’s new collection, smoldering hues of soft black, charcoal, navy and browns were blended into the browbones, and amplified with layers of mascara, carefully coating every lash!  False eyelashes are a MUST and work overtime to open up the eye, giving the smoky effect even more flair!  Incorporate this look for yourself with Flirt It Lash Duo ($8) and Smokey Eyes Palette ($36) from Sephora.com, and L’Oreal Telescopic Explosion Mascara in Black Black ($7.99) at Target.com.

Runway beauty for less - Makeup - Runway

Funky chignons

At many shows, backstage hair was either left long or lanky, loosely curled to create natural waves, or twisted into chignons to create classic glamour.  At Monique L’Huillier, the hair was blow dried straight and coated with sculpting liquid to tame any flyaway hairs.  Extensions were added for length, and twisted with silk fabric from the collection until the hair coiled naturally into itself.  After pinning to secure the top knot, extra firm hairspray secured the style and shine!  To try this look, wash and dry hair until it is 80 percent dry.  Work styling gel, such as BedHead Creative Genius ($14.50) at cvspharmacy.com, into the hair and add clip-on extensions ($15.95) at walgreens.com, in a color identical or close in shade to your own color.  Add ribbon or fabric for a fun accent. Separate into sections and twist or braid into an updo. Finish the look with Garnier Fructis Style in Full Control ($4.29) at target.com.