Red Carpet Ready A makeup artist spills on how to get beauty-prepped for a big event
When the upcoming big event is your version of the Oscars, it’s time to take your party-prep seriously. Here, Giorgio Armani’s Hong Kong-based makeup artist Benjamin Leung reveals the failproof tricks, tips and tools he relies on when prepping his clients for their most glamorous and camera-filled functions.
What do you consider the ultimate red carpet makeup look?
For me, the ultimate red carpet makeup look is both glamorous and classic - a matte red lip is perfect for this. For evening, my favourite red lipstick shade is Giorgio Armani’s No.1 Lip Maestro. For daytime red carpets, I’d opt for red that’s a little younger and more vibrant in a sheer natural matte finish, such as Giorgio Armani’s Star Lip Magnet #504.”
What makeup essentials should be first to go into an evening clutch?
“A dewy cushion foundation like the newly launched Armani To-Go Tone-Up Cushion is perfect for a quick touch up and will fit in most bags. If you’re short on space, your lipstick can act as a multifunctional item, and can be used on your lips, cheeks and even on eyelids as a tint. ”
How do you approach red carpet makeup differently to that for every day?
“Under a heavily lit environment, it’s best to avoid too much highlighter or glossy eye and lip products. It’s also best to opt for products with lower SPF - whether it be a daytime or evening red carpet - to avoid the patchy, white effect that can be caused by a camera flash. A full coverage base with a semi-matte finish, like Giorgio Armani’s Power Fabric foundation, is ideal.”
Before makeup, how do you prep a client’s skin for a big event?
“A good skincare regime as part of makeup prep helps increase the longevity of a red carpet look and creates a more flawless finish. I use Crema Nera Extrema Acqua Pantelleria Essence to prolong the look, a moisturising balm for creating a silk-like canvas, and a skin perfector for adding a natural glow.”
Immerse yourself in the ARMANI BOX HONG KONG pop-up installation between September 11 and 25, 2018, close to Lane Crawford Canton Road in Harbour City. Explore new experiences, such as leaving your digital handprint at the Walk of Fame, and expressing your emotions through the Screen Test “Be a Star” Audition. Plus, look out for an exclusive ARMANI BOX, including a limited edition Lip Magnet and a Lip Maestro Midi Set.
