Q: I have a really flashy black-tie event coming up and I’m not feeling very confident about doing my own make-up. Hiring a professional make-up artist seems a bit pricey but I really need some help. Any ideas?

A: “From Reese Whiterspoon’s minimal make-up look at this year’s Golden Globes to the gentle earthy tones Octavia Spencer wore on her skin at the Screen Actors Guild awards, modern red-carpet beauty is all about simplicity.

So, while you could get away with a radiant complexion, bronzy cheekbones and neutral glossy lips, perhaps you feel like something a little more dressed up?

Go Red!
If that’s the case, keep your eyes neutral (just a wash of skin toned eye shadow and then black mascara) and paint your mouth red. “True” red lipstick (nothing too tomato in colour nor too berry) compliments most skin tones.

Fill your lips in with a red lip liner that matches your lipstick (this gives your colour longevity) and then using your finger, gently dab your lipstick straight from the tube, pressing in onto your lips to intensify the colour.

Ask A Pro
If this all sounds like too much hard work, ask the peeps at Bobbi Brown to help you.

You can book a “Special Occasion Make Up” session (it costs R250, redeemable against purchase) and a make-up artist won’t just do your make up for you, he or she will actually give you a make-up lesson at the same time.

Sorted!
So, next time you see a “big deal” event in your diary, you’ll have your make up look sorted.

Call (011) 516-3000 for a Bobbi Brown counter or studio in your area.