Tell us about your beauty background I’m a self taught makeup artist. It takes much longer to learn the trade that way, but you do develop your own unique style.
What has been the highlight of your career? I’ve had so many career highlights, from working with inspiring people, celebrities & traveling around the world. However I think my first Vogue cover is something I will never forget and will always be grateful for.
Who are you beauty heroes? I have to say Pat Mc Grath as she’s such an incredible artist and always creates the most amazing looks.
How would you describe your signature look? My signature look is very Bardot inspired, I love a smokey eye paired with nude lips.
What sets you apart from other make up artists? All make up artists are different, our job has a lot to do with confidence as we work very closely with the models and clients. It’s important to be easy going, positive and always remain creative, these are traits that I have developed over the years.
Which aspect of make up do you think women most commonly struggle with or tend to get wrong? I’ve always felt foundation is one of the hardest skills to master. It’s important to choose the right foundation for your age, skin type and lifestyle. You almost always need less than you think. And always apply with a foundation brush for a professional and flawless finish.
Where do you get inspiration? I’m forever being inspired. Obviously I keep an eye on all the shows which helps with makeup trends etc. but films are always inspiring especially some of the classics. I also that having a good knowledge of classic album covers always helps. I’ve been asked a few times for Roxy music-style makeup and David Bowie is also used a lot as a reference.
What are your failsafe beauty products? I’m a big fan of keeping the skin as natural and skin-like as possible. I couldn’t go anywhere without my Bobbi Brown foundation palette £185, it has every foundation colour ever made by Bobbi as well as concealers, that way I’m always prepared for any model with any skin tone. I’d be lost without that and my Screenface Invisible Blotting Powder, £16.50 & Witch cosmetic wipes.
Is there a famous face that you’re desperate to get your hands on? Or one that you think does make up really well? Angelina Jolie always looks incredible. She plays it safe and always opts for a classic makeup look which never seems to date and always looks flawless.
What are your skincare must-haves? I love Pai Skincare as it’s so gentle and suits even the most sensitive of skins and I’m also huge fan of Sisley skincare, it leaves your skin looking incredible and I never travel without their sun creams.
When it comes to spring make up – what’s the best way to brighten and update your look? For spring I’d suggest keeping your make up as fresh and clean looking as possible. A cream blusher will give a fresh rosy glow to the face, perfect for a subtle spring daytime look.
Can everyone rock a bright lip? What’s the secret to finding your perfect shade? Bright lips can look really incredible, but they are also quite high maintenance. To find your perfect shade, I suggest testing lip colours on your fingertips as this is a far closer colourmatch to your lips than the back of your hand! It will give you an instant indication as to what the lipstick will look like on. If your going to wear a bright lip, do keep the rest of your makeup natural as this will give you the most modern look.
How do you prep your models’ skin before a shoot?It’s important not to use too many products, as this can leave the skin agitated and overloaded. First I wipe the skin down with Witch Cleansing and Toning Wipes, £1.99 as this removes any bacteria. Then I like to use a Pai moisturiser, £24, as it’s calming on the skin, not too heavy and sits well under make up.
What’s the perfect base for make up? This really depends on the skin type, but a general rule of thumb is to use a primer as it helps to give the foundation staying power whilst blurring fine lines. Follow this with your favourite tinted moisturiser or foundation and concealer – but only where you need it. Finish with a touch of translucent powder down the t zone to eliminate any excess shine.