twinks in bloom

Soft Girl Meets Professor Life

Being a working professional, juggling life as a university professor and working at an academic incubator, my days are usually filled with responsibilities and constant deadlines. But even in all the seriousness, I never forget to bring my inner soft girl to life. You’ll find me in dainty bows, cute coordinated outfits, painted nails, and accessories that match my mood. It’s my way of keeping the sparkle alive.

My makeup always reflects the vibe I want to carry for the day—light pinks, mauves, soft glows. The soft girl aesthetic isn’t about standing out loudly; it’s about feeling beautiful in your own delicate way.

And since most of my colleagues prefer a bare-face look, I’ve learned to strike that fine balance between looking polished and not going overboard. It’s a subtle art, and I love playing along that line.

Step 1: Skin Prep is Your Bestie

The most important part of my makeup routine starts before the makeup. Even if I’m indoors all day, sunscreen is a must. I used to hate applying it—oily skin problems—but after testing a dozen products, I found one that actually works. Trust me, your skin will thank you.

Also, never skip your lips! Dry, chapped lips just don’t go with soft glam. I always apply a lip balm early on to keep them hydrated and smooth for the tint or gloss that comes later.

Step 2: Keep It Light with the Base

For my daily makeup, I usually skip foundation altogether. A BB cream or skin tint is plenty, and often, I don’t even use that. When I do want some coverage, Dot & Key’s tinted sunscreen is a holy grail—it feels like skincare but gives a slight tint.

But honestly? My skin loves those no-base days, and so do I.

Step 3: Bring the Blush, Always

This might be my favorite step!

Soft girl vibes = blush.

A cream blush first, followed by a light dusting of powder blush, gives that glowy, healthy flush that brightens up the whole face. It’s like bringing color back into your cheeks, and your day.

Step 4: Compact—Your Old-School Hero

There’s something nostalgic about compact powder. Remember when our moms used Lakmé compact for everything? It’s still a must-have for me. It evens out your skin and keeps shine away without needing a full face of makeup.

The only rule? Match your shade! A compact that’s too light can leave your face looking grey. When you get it right, it makes you look fresh, not flat.

Step 5: Conceal When You Want

Concealer is totally optional, but super helpful. If I haven’t slept well (story of our lives, right?) or have some pigmentation, a dab of concealer makes a world of difference. I like to let it sit for a few seconds before blending—it gives better coverage and blends beautifully.

And always apply cream products before powder to avoid that cakey finish. It’s a small step, but it makes a big difference.

Step 6: Eyes that Speak

Eye makeup is where you can really make it your own. For me, a simple swipe of kajal does wonders. It instantly brings focus to the eyes and complements Indian features beautifully. I also keep a neutral and pink-toned palette on hand for soft shimmer and definition, without it being too dramatic.

Step 7: Glossed Lips, Always

We’ve moved on from the dry matte lip phase (thankfully). Lip tints and glosses are my go-to—they add that juicy, youthful vibe without being heavy. I love shades that are MLBB (My Lips But Better)—they enhance your natural tone and make you look instantly put-together.

Soft Glam is What You Make It

There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to beauty. Your version of soft glam may be pastels, bright pinks, or something totally different. What matters is how it makes you feel. That little pop of blush or swipe of gloss can change your entire mood.

So take your time. Try new things. And most importantly, wear what brings you joy.

Because at the end of the day, beauty isn’t just about products—it’s about presence. Be the softness you wish to see in the world,

and don’t forget to carry it with a pretty smile.