firstly you need a good moisturizer with an SPF of at least 15. (I actuall put a serum , eye cream and neck cream on first, but I suppose you might think this a bit much!) Then a good "primer" - Laura Mercier, Estee Lauder etc. do them. Then fiybdatuib but dont rub it in. Aply with a brush or sponge for thinner coverage. put it on slowly, little by little. then set it with a little translucent facepowder, fluffedon with a powder brush. the rest is up to you, but i would put browny-pink blusher from the "apples" of the cheek to the temples, and then a "pop" of pinky blusher on the apples too. good luck - hope this helps!
Firstly, make sure that your make-up is not out of date. Lipsticks stay fresh for 1 year, mascara 3 months, foundation 1 year, and powder 2 years. Although you might feel more comfortable using your fingers when applying make-up, it is sometimes easier (after you've mastered it) to use brushes. Don't forget to clean these with a gentle shampoo (once a week for foundation & powder brushes).
Take care of your skin so make-up goes on smoothly. Drink lots of water, get enough sleep, moisturize, protect and scrub. The rest is up to personal choice, depending what make-up you think suits you. But remember, unless you're going for drama or going out, less is sometimes the better option.
Have a wander around a department store make up area and look at the saleswomen and see which counter has the look you want to achieve. Ask for a demonstration of their make up, you may have to book. If you let them know you can't afford everything they recommend but get them to write down what they use and you can buy things as and when you can afford it. The right brush makes an amazing difference.