The essentials
1. Reverse-a-blush
To perfect summer’s lit-from-within, dewy flush, make-up artists often stain the apples of the cheeks with colour before veiling the face with ultra sheer foundation. A gel blush or lip/cheek tint is the ideal choice, just be sure to let it dry before applying your face base.
Clinique Almost Makeup SPF15, $45
Jemma Kidd Rosy Glow Lip & Cheek Tint, $46
2. Clip in some extra oomph
Original Diva Clip-on Hair Inserts, from $10.95 each
3. Sprinkle a subtle of glimmer into your locks
“Apply some shimmer dust to leave-in conditioner for a sparkling finish to your hair.” – The supermodel’s stylist, Oh-Min
Jane Iredale 24-Karat Gold Dust in Gold (for blondes) or Bronze (for darker hair), $27 each
L’Oreal Professional Volume Extreme Leave-in Conditioning Spray, $19.15
4. Fake fuller lips
Highlighting your cupid’s bow, giving depth to your lower lip and keeping colours light and glossy creates the illusion of a plumper pout. This little wonder from Benefit makes getting bee-stung a breeze.
Benefit Cupid’s Bow lip shaping kit, $53.
5. Lift your lashes
Nothing beats a clamp curler for lifting your lashes sky high. Try it on warm, just-out-of-the-shower lashes for extra effect and always choose a curler with a rubber cushion to avoid damage.
Manicare 24k Gold Plated Eyelash Curler, $14.99
6. Wiggle and glide your mascara
For seductively elongated eyes, place a slim wand close to the root of your lashes and, as you sweep toward your tips, give it a little wiggle and tug to the side. Then add an extra coat just on the outer corners for a flawless feline effect.
Clarins Wonder Length Mascara, $40, adorebeauty.com.au
7. Tackle tightlining
It might take some practice, but the naturally defined top lash line is worth it. Tightlining is the application of eyeliner from below so you are defining your lash base without an obvious line on your lid. First place your finger underneath your top lashes and lift them back (as though inserting contact lenses). See the line where the membrane and lashes meet? Take your liner (a moderately soft kohl pencil is often easier for first-timers) and gently apply it along this line, ‘pushing’ the colour up and into your lash base. The result: subtle, yet stunning, definition with no obvious make-up trail.
Chanel Le Crayon Kohl, $40, department stores nationally
8. Define your brows
A properly defined brow can work like an instant facelift, framing your features and lifting your eyes. Professionals recommend shading with powder for a natural, seamless finish.
Red Earth Absolute Brows, $29
Read tips on sculpting your perfect brow
9. Transform shadow into liner
Love the shade of your shadow, just wish it was a little more intense? Mix a little with water or eye primer to turn it into a livewire liner. Trace it on with a fine-tipped eyeliner brush or wash it all over your lid to really make those peepers pop.
POP Beauty Sparkle Sauce, $19.95, kitcosmetics.com.au
Glitter Eyeliner brush, $13
Tip:Mix powder and primer/water on the back of your hand. Never add water directly to your shadow palette as it can contaminate it with bacteria.
10. Illuminate everything
Once you’ve been enlightened, everything glows a little more gorgeously: brow bones, temples, cheekbones and your décolletage. Mix lotions with your foundation or moisturiser for luscious luminosity, sculpt by creating light and shade or bounce light away from blemishes and imperfections. The possibilities are endless.
Elizabeth Arden Sheer Lights Illuminating Tinted Mosturiser, $52, and Sheer Lights Illuminating Pen, $45
Image credits: Top right and top left courtesy Original Diva Hair Inserts
Applying my brows always makes me feel better