Beauty - all in the eye

The other day, I was showing my Chinese friends pictures from my brother’s wedding. I was one of the bridesmaids for his wedding, and I had opted to get my make-up done for the ordeal. The make-up process took in excess of one hour, and when I first beheld the final project in the mirror, I felt as though the intensity of the make-up was ridiculous. However, after the lady at the counter assured me the make-up(ed) look would tame down by the time of the wedding, and after I saw the final product of the other bridesmaids faces as well, I accepted the make-upped me. So, it was a close-up picture of me in full, intense make-up to which my Chinese friend commented, “Whoa—so pretty. You should wear your make-up like this everyday.” Hmm, “Probably not I said…it took a long time, and I don’t think there’s any need; I think I look fine the way I am.” My Chinese friend said nothing; I think she was disappointed.