While I was in Chicago last week, I was fortunate to be able to schedule a makeup lesson with Loretta Wilger, president and owner of Looks Cosmetics. I'm 46 years old and have worn makeup my whole life but had never had a makeup lesson beyond short encounters with salesclerks at department store makeup counters after which I often felt caked with makeup and self-conscious that everyone knew I'd just had a makeover because I looked so overly done. I wanted a real lesson where I would learn what products I needed, which colors would flatter, and how to best apply them in a manner that would make me look natural and more youthful (but not trendy) without having to invest a lot of time doing so. There are many options for makeup lessons in Chicago and I'm very glad I chose to go with Loretta. A former model, she's incredibly beautiful and passionate about sharing what she knows about skin care and makeup to help other women look their best. When I spoke with her on the telephone to set up my appointment, I was struck by her warm and friendly manner. Indeed, when I arrived for my lesson, she put me immediately at ease. The lesson was about 1.5 hours long and I had Loretta's undivided attention the entire time. She took both before and after pictures, which she later emailed to me, that really show how makeup can be applied to subtly enhance one's features. Loretta took me step by step to achieve a daytime look that could be easily translated into a nighttime one. I learned a lot, for example, how to use concealer correctly to even out my skin before applying powder or foundation, how to curl my eyelashes (something I'd never done!), and how to fill out sparse patches in my eyebrows. Although I felt absolutely no pressure to do so, I bought most of the products Loretta had used on me as I was so pleased with the way I looked and could tell the makeup was of good quality. Before I left, Loretta gave me written instructions so that I could achieve the same result at home, assuring me that if I had any questions that I shouldn't hesitate to contact her. My lesson with Loretta was exactly what I wanted and I highly recommend her! read more

Loretta is awesome! Ever since I met her 4 years ago I cannot imagine using any other makeup. At first I was reluctant to give up my international expensive brands but it was the best decision ever. LOOKS cosmetics are not only natural but they go easy on the skin giving you a natural but still sophisticated look. Their signature makeup class is amazing, in 90 minutes I learned how to look 10 years younger. If you ask me an investment every woman should do! So I keep bringing friends to Loretta. I also get my brows done with her; her attention to detail is unbelievable and I always leave with new beauty tips. The place is just beautiful, refined, tasteful and relaxing. If you want to pamper yourself and feel like a movie star in a glam magazine LOOKS is definitely the place to go!!! read more

I am getting married in the next coming months and my sister as a surprise booked a private party for makeup lessons with Loretta. It was a blast! I learned so much about the application of makeup, brands, colors, brushes, etc. It was like I was getting a complete makeover! My sisters and I loved Loretta's energy and enthusiasm! The makeup is amazing too! My fiancé said, "Wow!" The first time he saw me in it. It's life-changing. I left the class feeling fabulous! Loretta made us feel comfortable and we all left feeling like she was part of our family! I completely trust Loretta. I am using all my new techniques for an easy, natural day-to-day look. And, I can't wait to see Loretta again for further help with my eyebrows! read more

My daughter and I went for the teen natural beauty class and private makeup class for women. They were just amazing! We both learned a lot and I am getting compliments everywhere I go on my makeup..I never got that before! Loretta is awesome! My daughter learned tasteful and simple approach goes very far with makeup. She is a competitive dancer and when I saw her makeup she did for her last competition I was blown away. She did not have a lot on and she looked great. I recommend this for anyone who just wants to put some new life into their makeup routine and especially if you have a teen starting to wear makeup. You will learn a lot, have fun and look great. read more

Just finished a Signature Natural Beauty Make Up Class and I am thrilled with the results. Loretta is absolutely fantastic! She takes the time to go over your current skin care and make up products before starting the lesson. Loretta explains every step in the application process including the tools and colors that she used. She never pushes any product and doesn't oversell the products she uses. However, once you see the results you'll want to purchase it all! I will definitely take another class with her. As a woman in her late forties Loretta made me feel beautiful in a very natural way and I can replicate the look at home in as little as 10 minutes. read more

Definitely recommend Looks for Wedding Makeup! Loretta's expertise is impressive!! She did an amazing job with makeup for my daughter's wedding. The results lasted all day. She is professional, kind and has a great personality. After the wedding l scheduled a makeup application lesson with her. Loretta is patient and knowledgeable on how to apply daily makeup. She did my girls makeup for Prom all through high school too. Always happy with the results! Holly W. read more

Loretta is not only gorgeous and has built up a fabulous makeup business but she has incredible modeling experience. Because of that, we knew she would be a wealth of knowledge and insider tips as we get our son into the modeling business. We trust her completely. She not only knows the business but the right modeling agencies and the right people to get in front of. Already we have people interested because of her connections. Would highly recommend Loretta! read more

Loretta and her team are fabulous! LOOKS Cosmetics provided make-up services for 7 of my special ladies and myself for my wedding this past weekend. They came on time, were professional, and did an AMAZING job on our make-up. I had a few trials and Loretta was always so sweet and helpful. All my ladies looked gorgeous and I personally was so happy with my make-up. I will definitely call on Loretta and her team again in the future! read more

Why LOOKS Cosmetics? Loretta, she is fabulous! She makes you feel wonderful with her smile and contagious personality. In addition, she has amazing products and the ability to give you the perfect brow. I have always used a variety of products, no more. I only use LOOKS Cosmetics. I have never been a "more is better" type of person, Loretta provides me with techniques to get a sophisticated look without a lot of makeup. read more

Loretta is absolutely wonderful. She emphasizes the importance of inner beauty while maintaining that her cosmetic line is meant to enhance the natural beauty of all her clients. Meeting with her was a pleasure; she made me feel comfortable the second I walked into her office. 10/10 would recommend her products or meeting with her for advice-she has years of modeling experience and knows what she's talking about! read more

Loretta is the absolute best!!! I have gone to her for her makeup class, senior photo makeup, brows, and for all of my makeup! Her class was so useful and I learned so much! My senior photo makeup was perfect and everything I wanted!! She's the only person I trust doing my brows and doing my makeup! I have nothing but positive things to say about LOOKS and Loretta! read more

Loretta is such a joy to be around. 9 years ago, she taught my oldest daughter how to care for her skin and apply makeup. Recently, my 3rd daughter got the "Looks teen makeup" class. My 12 yo looked so stunning and confident and learned so much. I love that Loretta teaches a "less is more" and natural way of applying makeup. read more

I highly recommend Looks Cosmetics! The products are so natural and blend in so well with your skin! Not only that but Loretta, is a super sweet lady, that is great with makeup! She is so nice and will amaze you with what she can help you do! read more

Loretta is absolutely the best. I finally have brows!! Loretta is a fabulous makeup artist. I am amazed at how she can take me from daytime to evening to photo op and still look natural. I highly recommend her. read more

The perfect brow! Always feel so much better after I see Loretta! Fantastic make up there as well! She is a true professional and so sweet.

Loretta is very professional and an absolute joy to work with! Wonderful woman with great connections and an eye for talent.

We are so proud to have been part of Ryan & Britney's Wedding Day First Look. https://youtu.be/AOXCTqigm3M read more