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makeup

Beauty, Fashion

My tips for New Year’s Eve party dressing

17th December, 2023

Once the Christmas festivities end, it’s time to start thinking about New Year’s Eve. It’s the time to go all out with your look and have a little fun. After all, after a year where many of us having been doing the juggle of everything from work to family and other personal commitments, I know some will be wanting to cut loose and embrace something bold to ring in the new year. So what are my New Year’s Eve outfit tips?

When it comes to New Year’s Eve dressing the brief usually falls under the category of glitzy, glamorous attire complemented by statement-making makeup. And I think you have licence to embrace sequins, vibrant colour and fun accoutrements. If there’s one time of the year you can afford to go a little OTT it’s the eve of December 31st!

So, if you’ve yet to lock your outfit in, I’ve got a few tips below on how to find a look you’ll be happy to farewell this year in, in great style.

Think sexy and sleek when it comes to your party look

The outfit

I think New Year’s Eve is all about the perfect dress. For me I definitely tend to go for something a little sexier for New Year’s Eve. It’s the time to splash out, so if you want to wear sequins or something sparkly or if you want to go for a classic LBD with a statement shoe or with a striking clutch, there’s no better time to stand out and have fun with your outfit.

My go-to party dress designers are largely Aussie designers. I think you can find some really sleek and sexy looks at Dion Lee. And I think Camilla and Marc always do really great party dresses. Rebecca Vallance is also one my go-to designers when I’m looking for something that’s perfect to wear to an event.

A slicked back bun is always a failsafe party ‘do

The makeup

For me it’s all about making a statement whether that be a bold eye or a bold lip, but make sure it’s one or the other. I think a black smoky eye is always a great look on New Year’s Eve. It’s definitely the time to dress up.

When it comes to hair it’s a great time to experiment and do something a little more party ready if you dare. A great bouncy blow dry, tousled curls or going sleek with a slicked back bun are all great options for December 31.

Let it sparkle!

The accessories

No matter where you’re going on New Year’s Eve, it’s the perfect moment to embrace a sexy statement heel. Don’t be afraid to go all out with your choice of shoe. Something flashy, fun and dramatic is definitely in order.

While the rest of your accessories, including jewellery and bag choice can also fall into the category of striking and vibrant. Think colour, think metallic finishes, think details such as sequins—the only rule is that it be all about making a statement.

What are you doing for your New Year’s Eve party look?

Beauty

How to fake looking rested when you’ve been out all night

26th November, 2023
Photo by Anastasiia Rozumna on Unsplash

Whenever I need to look camera-ready I turn to Michael Brown. As my go-to makeup artist he’s been known to get me looking fresh and ready for an event in a flash, even if I was looking absolutely exhausted right before. He’s that good. So, given there are events aplenty right now, and Christmas parties galore, I know there are going to be those who may need to look bright eyed and bushy tailed even if they’re feeling anything but. But what’s the best way to fake eight hours sleep with what’s sitting in your makeup kit? What are the best makeup tricks to hide looking tired?

I asked Michael to talk me through the whole process—from what products to use to how to tackle problem areas such as dark circles and a dull complexion—so I could share it with you to use as your go-to guide over the next few weeks. Here are Michael’s top makeup tricks to hide looking tired—so you can fool everyone into thinking you were in bed nice and early last night. It’s our little secret…

If you’re going to try and fake looking like you’ve had eight hours sleep, what should be in your tool kit and why?

“To fake eight hours sleep, it’s all about a good hydration product for instant plump and glow; a great concealer for any redness on the skin and of course dark circles; eye drops to re-fresh tired eyes and for me it’s a great lip/blush combo, something fresh and on the brighter side to add colour and brighten your overall look.”

What’s the key to brightening up a tired, dull complexion?

“A non-sparkly highlighter, concealer and a great fresh/bright lipstick would be my first choices to brighten a tired complexion!

The highlighter (try a creamy/liquid, non-metallic version) can be used under and/or over foundation on highlight points, especially cheekbones, to capture and reflect light to give the illusion of super fresh, glow skin.

Concealer is a must, and is more for redness around the nose and then lightly applied under the eye area for an instant refresh!

Lastly, a bright, fresh lipstick, like peach, dusty rose or a brick-based pink/red can also be dabbed and applied to the cheeks and eyelids to really awaken the skin, giving colour and freshness back to a tired complexion.”

How can you effectively disguise tired eyes?

“Sometimes overcompensating and applying too much makeup around the eyes when tired is actually worse! Avoid dark and heavy, think fresh and light, while steering clear of pinky/reddish shades, as these can make the eyes look more tired.

Use eye drops to clear redness and re-fresh, concealer under the eye to brighten dark circles and then neutral tones across the eyelid and socket bone with mascara. No eyeliner will do the trick to open and define, but not overdo the area with makeup.”

How can you best cover dark circles?

“Dark circles really need two shades of concealer to really get that celebrity, red carpet style, super fresh under eye snd it works a treat!

Depending on the depth of the dark circle, apply first a peachy/yellow (orange for extreme dark circles) to the actual dark circle area and dab to blend for colour correction.

Then, over the top, use more of your skin tone shade and even slightly lighter, and this will brighten the area.

Once you colour correct the dark circle away, only then will your skin tone shade or lighter tone work over the area, otherwise it may go greyish if you don’t colour correct first.”

What are the key things to do if you want to look fresher?

“It really is also about focusing more on your skin prep!

We are so quick to slap on a bit of makeup when tired, but skin prep does all that for you…. With hydration comes glow and plump skin, it’s important to massage skincare into skin well to reduce puffiness and to look fresher.

Are there any looks to steer clear of if you are trying to look more rested than you actually are?

“For me, it is just heavy eye makeup. It can definitely make you appear more tired than you are as it’s quite heavy for the eyes —especially big lashes and thick eyeliner!”

If you’re dealing with a hangover, what’s the quickest makeup routine to do to help freshen up your look?

“As above. Eye drops, skin prep, concealer, non metallic highlighter, brighter lipstick and blush.”

Beauty

How to do a bronze cat eye makeup look

13th September, 2023

 

 

I’m lucky to be able to work with some great makeup artists as part of my job, but most of the time I’m left to my own devices and have to create a glam makeup look for an event that doesn’t take ages to do. Because of this, I’ve managed to hone in on some go-to looks that are easy yet impactful and don’t take all that long to do.

This bronze cat eye look only takes me a few minutes and doesn’t involve a million steps. It’s quickly become one of my favourites for this reason. Plus, it always looks polished and refined, but didn’t require me to have to employ a number of complicated steps like shading and contouring. As a time-poor mum, I need to get out the door fast!

So, check out my step-by-step guide above and let me know if you decide to try it!

 

What I used:

Foundation: Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk in 5.5

Base eyeshadow: I used a face bronzer called Marc Jacobs O!mega Bronze

Eyeliner: L’Oréal Infallible Gel Automatic Eyeliner in Brown Denim

Eyeshadow as liner: MCo Beauty Eyeshadow Palette in Peachy/Nudes

Brow pencil: Revlon Colorstay 450 Brow Pencil in Soft Blonde

Eyebrow gel: Benefit 24 hour brow setter

Eyelashes: Ardell medium black individual lashes.

Cheeks: Stila Cheek Cream in Peony

Lip pencil: Mac Lip Pencil in Oak

Lipstick: Tarte Maracuja Juicy Lip in Orchid.

Beauty

My quick beauty routine to get out the door fast

14th August, 2023

Most days I have to be out the door fast so unfortunately I don’t have much time to spend on getting ready, especially on the beauty front. This is why I’ve managed to hone down my makeup routine to one that’s just a few minutes long to earn myself some precious extra time to round up the kids/gather my things for the day/have a coffee. This is a stripped back version of my regular regimen but it helps me feel pulled together and ready to tackle the day ahead.

A quick base

I always moisturise my face first before applying a 50+ sunscreen. I never skip the sunscreen as I know my skin will thank me for it in the years to come. Afterwards I always apply a foundation to even out my skin. Usually I go between Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk or Chanel Vitalumiere as they both provide a dewy skin finish.

Fill my brows

The next step is to fill my eyebrows with a brow powder from Amy Jean Eye Couture. I usually brush my brows in place first before I set it with a powder. I use a blonde colour palette when it comes to brow powder as I don’t want my brows to be too dark and I find it’s usually a bit more subtle when I use a blonde shade.

Apply my eye makeup

I’ll apply a bit of Tom Ford eyeshadow in terracotta tones in the crease of my eyes and around my lashes just to give my eyes a little lift and then put on a coat of mascara using ModelCo Fat Lash mascara as a finishing touch. And that’s it! It takes minutes but helps me feel pulled together and presentable and ready to face the day.

 

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What’s your quick beauty routine?

Beauty

The key to great foundation according to my go-to makeup artist

9th July, 2022

Whenever I have to get my glam on, whether it’s for a big event or a shoot, more often than not I turn to makeup artist Michael Brown. With over 20 years’ experience, he’s worked with major brands such as Marc Jacobs Beauty and VS Sassoon, is the resident beauty expert for ATC Races and has worked with celebs like Miranda Kerr, Gisele Bundchen, Jesinta Franklin and Jennifer Hawkins. So, essentially he knows his stuff when it comes to makeup.

I usually walk away from one of our makeup sessions with a new product to try or a tip to remember. So I figure who better to share his expertise on the first step in any makeup routine. With a wealth of knowledge up his sleeve, I asked Michael’s tips for how to achieve a great base and get foundation spot on—plus the big no-nos to avoid.

Skin prep is key

“This is a very common trend in Australia, foundation looking very heavy or obvious on the skin.

Yes, this could be incorrect foundation choice or bad application if it is looking obvious on the face, but more times than not, the foundation product has been applied over skin with no real skin prep which is crucial for that second skin complexion that most women are after.

It is important to apply foundation to a smooth, well-hydrated, plump skin, so this all comes down to good skincare. Try to exfoliate once a week to buff the skin. When your skin is well hydrated, foundation will melt into the face, not catching or looking dry in certain areas either.”

Avoid dense formulations

“Use a water-based or light fluid moisturiser under foundation for that perfect bond. A more dense cream can sometimes be to thick or oil-based and much longer to absorb into the skin, so foundation doesn’t actually bond well, rather than a lightweight gel-cream for example.”

Understand your skin tone

“I see so many women wearing very obvious mismatched foundation shades on their skin. Yes, there sometimes can be other factors like not enough moisture on the skin, therefore the colour can appear darker on dry patches of the skin, but in most cases, its just not getting the skin tone correct.

It is important to understand skin under-tones such as warm, cool and neutral.

Do you have any pink running through your skin? This is the easiest way to tell between cool and warm. Pink equals cool and you’ll have a bluish vein tone on the back of your wrists. Warm skin tones will have no pink, more a yellowish undertone and a green vein tone on the back of your wrists.

For anything else, you might be neutral which is very common with Asian skin tones. Or if are trying to diffuse colour from your skin, neutral foundation shades are for.”

Don’t match foundation to the back of your hand

“Never try to colour match your foundation on the back of your hand, as it wont be applied there and hands are often darker than our face, so apply on the cheek/jawline area, as that will give the most true colour match.

If someone wants to warm up their skin, especially now coming out of winter and going into warmer months, rather than going up a notch in foundation shades, it’s best to mix a dab of liquid bronzer into your foundation so that it slightly warms up the product to give warmth, otherwise your face can look very different to everything else if you try to change your skin tone.”

Beauty

The beauty products I’ve finished lately

21st March, 2022

I love trying new beauty products because I often come across plenty of new launches via work, or I receive recommendations from friends. The latter is a fave because there’s nothing I like more than being privy to the brand new mascara someone is obsessed with or the wonder serum that’s working its magic on someone’s skin. That said, once I find something I really rate then I will tend to stick to it because a great beauty product that really aligns with my needs is a definite find.

If you’re like me, the beauty products that actually get used down to the very last drop are a special breed. It means that I absolutely loved them and that I kept coming back for more because not only did it do as it promised, but it exceeded my expectations and it was simply a pleasure to use. Whether it’s the results I got, the ease in which I was able to use it or something as simple as the fact that scent was heavenly, there are so many reasons I tend to gravitate back towards particular products, even more so when I actually finish them.

Lately, these are the beauty products that I’ve actually emptied!

Clarins Double Serum

First up, a disclaimer. Clarins is a brand I’ve worked with professionally so I was introduced to this serum in a work capacity. That said, I’ve continued using it long after that time and have been a repeat user ever since. My skin drinks this serum up and it always delivers such great results. It targets the signs of ageing and leaves my skin feeling supple and hydrated. I always look forward to applying it because my skin feels amazing afterwards.

Clarins Double Serum Eye

Being a huge fan of the Double Serum already I was really excited to hear that there was now one that is specifically for eyes. I dot this around my eyes and I find it helps tired eyes look more refreshed. The area around the eyes is also one of the first places on the face to show signs of ageing so I’m all about taking care of it.

La Roche-Posay Tinted Fluid Lightweight Sunscreen

I don’t have an overly complicated beauty routine to get out the door every morning as most days I’m in a rush to get ready. To help make it easier, I like products that do double duty such as tinted sunscreen. Having been a fan of the original La Roche-Posay Anthelios sunscreen, I was keen to try the tinted version for some light coverage during the day. It didn’t disappoint. It glides on easily, provides good coverage and it’s also an SPC50+, which is important as I’m conscious of protecting my skin from the skin, particularly as I live near the beach so often spend most mornings there.

Hourglass Veil Mineral Primer

If I’m wearing makeup I always use this primer underneath. It’s so good. It just makes foundation sit so much better. I like the fact that it helps to minimise pores and fine lines and creates a perfect blank canvas for me to apply the rest of my makeup. Plus, I find it helps product to stay put. It’s also a lighweight, easy to apply texture which earns it more ticks from me.

 

Tell me—what are some beauty products you’ve finished lately?

Beauty

The beauty products I’m committed to spending 2022 with

31st January, 2022

My beauty regimen is one of the things I spend a lot of time on so I’ve roadtested my fair share of beauty products. I like trying new things, but when I find something I really like, I’m very loyal. I also like my routine to be quite low maintenance, so I like to use fewer products but make sure they deliver. That’s not too much to ask right? In the course of my beauty travels I’ve found some gems which I highly rate and have now become a staple for me. So, what will definitely make it into my beauty routine this year? These are a few of my current faves that form the basis of my my skincare and makeup routine.

 

Clarins Double Serum

My skin absolutely drinks this serum up. It’s hydrating and so nourishing and it’s perfect all year round. It’s perfect for fighting the signs of ageing and I’m always all about investing in great skincare to ensure my skin is always in top condition. I come back to this serum time and time again.

 

 

Clarins Everlasting Youth Fluid

I never like foundation that feels too “done”. I’d rather have a natural looking finish with some subtle coverage where I need it, and nothing that feels heavy. I like this foundation by Clarins for that reason, and also because it sits well, has an in built SPF and it has a hydrating effect which helps to smooth fine lines.

 

Hourglass Arch Brow Sculpting Pencil

Polished brows are a really important part of my beauty routine, but finding a good brow pencil is hard. It can’t be too chalky or waxy, but it does need to be able to hold every single hair in place and also fill in spots where needed. I’ve been using this Hourglass brow pencil and it delivers. It achieves a really natural effect and creates a fuller looking brow.

 

M.A.C Lipstick in Honey Love

I like wearing this neutral lipstick on most days as it adds a hit of colour to my lips without being OTT for day use. It helps achieved a polished makeup look but the colour isn’t so intense that I would feel weird wearing it on the school run.

 

 

M.A.C Lip Pencil in Stripdown

I’m a fan of the creamy texture of this lip pencil as it glides on easily so you can be really precise with the application. I use it to define my lips, but it’s also great for filling them in and acting as a lipstick. Highly recommend.

 

Yves Saint Laurent Exclusive Couture Colour Clutch Eyeshadow Palette – #3 Saharienne

As far as eyeshadow palettes go, I have to say this YSL one is quite luxe looking. The outside looks like a mini YSL clutch, with the black quilted pattern and gold insignia. It feels quite special any time I pull it out to use it! However it’s not all looks and no substance. The colours in this particular palette allow me to achieve a number of different makeup looks, from smoky eye to something slightly rosier and more feminine. It’s definitely become a staple and I use it all the time.

 

What are some of your beauty MVPs right now?

 

 

Beauty, Fashion & Beauty

The summer beauty products I can’t live without

27th December, 2021

Photography: Ashleigh Larden

 

I often change up my beauty routine according to the seasons, and summer is no different. Dealing with soaring temperatures means I have to rethink the products I use to ensure they are able to deal with humidity and super hot days. I love being out and about during summer, and spend a lot of time at the beach so I like products that have longevity and are able to withstand the warm days we have in Sydney. I also want things that are easy to use as I like to a keep my makeup repertoire to a minimum. These are the summer beauty products I can’t live without.

 

Bondi Sands Tanning Foam

Fake tan is a must for me throughout summer and I swear by this Bondi Sands tanning foam. I’ve used a few different brands and I keep coming back to this one as it’s easy to use (no one likes a patchy tan!) and achieves a great golden hue.

 

 

 

M.A.C Cosmetics Brow Set

Brows are key part of my makeup routine, particularly in summer when I opt for a more pared back approach. When I have to contend with heat and humidity, I’d rather just keep my makeup to a minimum where possible, so having polished brows is important. I’ve used this clear gel by M.A.C for years and it keeps any unruly hairs in place and is not too expensive too.

 

 

Stila Convertible Colour in Gerbera

A lot of makeup artists say it’s a good idea to switch to cream based cosmetics during summer as they’re less likely to “melt”. So, I use this creamy cheek and lip colour rather than a powder blush. It achieves a subtle flush which is perfect during the warmer months. It’s also good texture to work with so I’m able to blend and build up colour easily.

 

Maybelline Nudes of New York 

This palette is one of my faves! It’s inexpensive and the selection of colours is perfect for achieving a smoky eye effect. I often use this palette to create a deeper, more dramatic effect when I’m going out, but there are also some shades which are great for day.

 

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Bronzer

I’m a huge fan of Charlotte Tilbury’s range and this bronzer is a must during summer. I use it to add some subtle colour to my cheeks or use a dusting of it on my face. It has a pore blurring effect and it leaves my skin looking like it’s been airbrushed. Winning!

What are your favourite summer beauty products?

 

Beauty, Shop

Are you using this beauty gadget?

26th June, 2021

Eyelash curlers have been around for eons but they’re still seriously one of the best ways to get an amazing curl every single day. I’ve got one in my beauty kit and I can’t live without it and most makeup artists I’ve worked with always have one on hand.

If you’ve not yet used one I highly suggest you do! I know some people tend to avoid using them because a) they look like they’d be complicated to use and b) they look like they’d inflict some serious damage on your lashes if not in the right hands! However I can definitely confirm they’re neither. In fact, they’re super simple to operate. Promise.

For those who are going to venture into eyelash curler territory for the first time the first step is to open the curler and press down gently at the base of your eyelid where your lashes start and slowly “walk” it out along the length of your lashes just pressing down lightly as you go. This will give you a great curl and the effect really opens up your eyes. Whatever you do avoid just clamping down at the base as this can leave you with a harsh curl as opposed to a natural finish. Once done apply mascara liberally and you’re ready to go!

I’ve rounded up a few great eyelash curlers below (I use one by Shu Uemura, but there are plenty of great options out there) so you can get your curl on at home.

 

 

 

 

Beauty

3 summer makeup trends try according to top makeup artists

6th January, 2021
Image: Photo by Andrey Zvyagintsev on Unsplash

Along with your wardrobe the other great way to refresh your look is with makeup. Even if you’ve had the same routine for years, now is the perfect time to experiment with what’s currently trending. With a lot of our time in summer spent out and about, it’s a great opportunity to dip your toe into a few trends and give your look a fresh, updated feel.

And who better to give you an idea of what’s currently trending than those whose job it is to paint faces day in, day out? Between them, these makeup artists have worked on getting celebs glammed up for shoots and the red carpet, magazine editorials and fashion and beauty campaigns, so you know that you’re in good hands when they share with you the top trends to look out for.

Glassy highlights

While it’s always about skin when it comes to makeup (I’m a firm believer it’s the blank canvas that will make or break a beauty look) this season it’s being taken up a notch.

“This spring/summer we are going to see more hydrated and wet-looking skin. Powder highlighters are going to take a back seat whilst glass highlighters take over. Glass highlighters leave the skin looking like you’ve just emerged from the pool on a hot day. Sexy, glossy and glowing,” says makeup artist Julia Green.

It’s time to experiment with your summer makeup looks
Colour blast

As far as makeup artist Nigel Stanislaus is concerned, it’s all about colour. It’s time to embrace bold shades to truly make your summer look stand out.

“Floating liner is becoming a popular trend. And feel free to use other colours like cobalt blue or violet.”

Nigel also pinpoints the traditional smoky eye getting a vibrant makeover with metallics and colours giving it an updated feel.

And the ultimate finishing touch? “A matte fire engine red lip.”

Dolphin skin

Yes, let Flipper be your beauty muse this summer.

Michael Brown, one of Australia’s top makeup artists (he’s my go-to for any event) says it’s all about dolphin skin.

“Dolphin skin resembles that glassy wet shine you see on a dolphin when leaping out of crystal waters. So basically taking the common beauty words of glowy and dewy to the next level.

Light reflecting products that give radiance and glow are key, but also using creams and liquid colour pigments like highlighter and blush, plus glossy lids, all gives this wet-sheen that can imitate and be true to the dolphin skin trend.”