When you're in the A-list spotlight, there are two key criteria for successful makeup: It has to look natural and attractive, and it has to last well into the night. Vogue talks to Sir John, superstar makeup artist for Beyoncé and Joan Smalls, and his costar with Cate Blanchett and Jessica Marie Greenwell, Jessica Marie Greenwell teams up with Jessica Chastain and more for expert advice on how to style the red carpet.
1. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
"I love the last moisturizer I apply before foundation, a super hydrating day moisturizer," says Greenwell. “Especially on the red carpet.” Cleansing the skin before makeup helps brighten: “I’ll use something like 111 Skin Rose Brightening Facial Treatment Mask, leave it on for 20 minutes, then use a light serum instead of a primer, ’ she told Vogue.
2. glow
When it comes to beauty today, the Holy Grail is skin that "glows from within." This is especially true in summer, when heavy makeup in the online beauty supply store is removed for a natural glow. Sir John confirms that his clients' most requested looks are: "Glowing skin, dramatic eyes and/or lips." VIP Glow sets the tone for the entire aesthetic.
3. Play with textures
For a truly long-lasting look, Sir John says: "Duality is the key. Make sure you apply loose powder every time you apply cream—for example, brow pencil and eyeshadow primer. This dual-application technique creates a teflon finish." Likewise The rules apply to your foundation, foundation, blush or highlighter - use any cream-based product with a setting powder for long-lasting soft skin.
4. Use your eyes to guide
The sequence of makeup often leaves experts divided, but according to Sir John, "It goes like this: Moisturizer, brows, eyes (use a cotton swab and water-based makeup remover to remove any faded shadow), stippling over foundation or Use a moist beauty blender, primer and concealer on your complexion, followed by powder, setting or contouring concealer, then highlighter, blush, and finish with two coats of mascara and lipstick." Wait, voila!
5. Match colors carefully
Just the right base color can make all the difference, especially when you want your makeup to look like an extension of yourself rather than a separate mask. "To find a color match, test the product on the side of the neck, in the best light possible," advises Greenwell. "Even if you're in a department store, try to go to the window and look in the strongest natural light. If it works for your neck, it will work for your face."
6. Neutrals are the warmest colors
While different skin tones and eye colors suit different eye shadows, neutral shades ensure a chic and subtle look. According to Sir John, "a warm brown shade one shade darker than the skin tone" is the color that best complements the eyes. For dark circles, he adds, "A peachy or pink concealer (something with a warm tone) will neutralize any blue you see under the eyes."
7. Don’t underestimate the power of eyebrows
Nice brows will instantly add dimension and help define your face, but maintaining a natural look is key. "If you're filling in the brows, you want a natural overall shade, not filling in the hair alone," says Greenwell. "I hold the pencil directly on the skin and apply the shadow, which is much better than drawing pencil lines that look a little painted. Once the brows are set and defined, then add the gel—swipe up to apply."
