What Is Draping?

Draping is a contouring alternative that uses blush to define the face shape, sweeping color from the apples of the cheeks up through the hollows and toward the temples. Popularized by Way Bandy in the 1970s and revived by modern beauty creators, draping replaces traditional contour (which uses cool-toned brown shades) with warm or rosy blush tones. This creates a softer, more youthful sculpting effect that adds warmth while defining cheekbones. The technique works best with powder or cream blush in a shade two to three tones deeper than your main blush, blended seamlessly from the cheekbone into the temple area. It's especially flattering on mature skin where traditional contour can look harsh.