Hi everyone! I'm so excited to share with you some of my favourite products that I use as a professional hair & makeup artist. I specialize in natural, healthy skin and effortless hair, and I work with different clients in various fields, such as commercial fashion, broadcasting and corporate. That means I need to have a versatile and reliable kit that can handle different situations and needs, with different textures and finishes, be it for the sake of avoiding potential allergies, the model/client's skin/hair type and needs or the finish and coverage I need to achieve.
I love trying new products and seeing how they work for me, but there are some that I always come back to because they are just amazing. They have great textures and finishes, and they help me create beautiful looks for my clients.
All of the below have repeatedly found their way back into my kit, usually due to peak performance and outstanding textures and finishes that are just a pleasure to work with and help me achieve the best results for my clients.
Of course, I don't use all of these products at the same time or all the time, but they are some of my favourites and I highly recommend them to anyone who loves makeup as much as I do.
For foundation, I have a few favourites depending on the coverage and finish I need.
Dewy Foundations
Dewy foundations are designed to give the appearance of a healthy and glowing complexion. They enhance your natural skin and reflect light, to make skin look more hydrated and youthful. Depending on your skin type and the type of coverage you’re looking for, there are several different options available. Here are some of my top picks:
Kevyn Aucoin The Etherealist Skin Illuminating Foundation (RRP £50.00, Available at LOOKFANTASTIC and Space NK)
This foundation is currently my dream product. It has a lightweight, silky and hydrating formula that feels like skin and blends so seamlessly to create a luminous, radiant finish. It contains light-reflecting particles that blur imperfections and even out the skin tone for a smooth, even complexion. It is enriched with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E to moisturise and nourish the skin, and it comes in 16 shades to suit different skin tones. You have no idea how many times the talent on my chair asks me where can they find this to purchase for themselves.
Illamasqua Beyond Foundation (RRP £33.00, Available at LOOKFANTASTIC and Illamasqua)
This is a vegan and cruelty-free option that is infused with light-reflecting particles that blur out fine lines and pores and create a dewy and natural-looking, subtle glow. It has a lightweight, bouncy, silky texture that blends easily and feels comfortable on the skin. It also contains vitamin E and plant-based glycerin to nourish and hydrate the skin. It comes in 25 shades to suit most skin tones.
Lord & Berry Cream Foundation (RRP £30.00, Available at Lord & Berry and Sephora)
This foundation is creamy and blendable and glides on smoothly to provide a buildable medium-to-full coverage. It has a dreamy satin finish that makes the skin look super healthy and radiant. It also has hyaluronic acid, antioxidants and vitamin E to protect and repair the skin. Available in 20 shades.
This is a luxurious and elegant foundation that delivers a natural, healthy glow and a flawless complexion with sheer to medium coverage. It has a fluid-creamy texture that glides on smoothly and adapts to the skin's natural movements, making it incredibly comfortable. It also contains kalanchoe extract, hyaluronic acid and SPF 25 to moisturise, plump and shield the skin. Available in 35 shades.
Fenty Beauty PRO FILT'R Hydrating Foundation (RRP £30.00, Available at Boots)
This is a personal favourite that caters to all skin types and (under)tones. It has a hydrating and long-wearing formula that delivers a medium-to-full coverage with a dewy-fresh natural finish and it is also a sweat and humidity-resistant formula that stays put all day without caking or creasing. It is available in 50 shades to match every skin tone.
By Terry Hyaluronic Hydra-Foundation (RRP £53.00, Available at By Terry, LOOKFANTASTIC and Space NK)
This is a lightweight foundation that provides sheer to medium coverage with a dewy finish. It contains hyaluronic acid to plump and hydrate the skin, and SPF 30 to protect from sun damage. It blurs out imperfections and gives a natural glow. I love how it feels like a second skin and can last all day without looking cakey or oily. Available in 16 shades.
Typology Tinted Serum (RRP £28.90, Available at Typology)
This serum foundation is a minimalist beauty option that combines skincare and makeup in one innovative product. It has a lightweight serum-like texture that feels hydrating on the skin and provides a sheer coverage with a dewy, natural finish. It also contains 12 % active ingredients such as squalane, vitamin C and prebiotics to brighten, smooth and balance the skin. Available in 6 adaptable shades.
Special mention to the Fenty Body Sauce which is a tinted body luminiser that gives a gorgeous glow and a subtle wash of colour. It's perfect for enhancing a natural skin tone or adding some warmth and shimmer to a tanned body. This is a lightweight, blendable, and transfer-resistant body makeup which is ideal for commercial and editorial jobs. It comes in seven shades to suit every skin tone, from Pearl Swirl to Chocolate Reign. Whether you want to highlight the legs, arms, chest, or anywhere else, Fenty Body Sauce will help you do it with the confidence it won't smudge the clothes.
Natural Matte Foundations
Natural matte foundations are ideal for those who want a shine-free but not flat-looking complexion. They help control excess oil and keep the skin looking smooth and even throughout the day. They also tend to have more staying power than dewy foundations, which is great for long hours, strong lighting or humid/hot weather. Here are some of my favourites:
Juvia's Place 3-in-1 Shade Stick (RRP £15.95, Available at London Loves Beauty)
This is a versatile product that can be used as a foundation, concealer or contour stick. It has a creamy texture that blends easily and feels lightweight on the skin. It has medium to full coverage that can be layered or diffused depending on what you want to achieve. It gives a natural matte finish that looks velvety and soft. Available in 30 inclusive shades.
Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Foundation (RRP £39.00, Available at Charlotte Tilbury)
This is a high-performance foundation that delivers flawless skin in an instant. It has a liquid formula that feels weightless on the skin and delivers a full coverage with an airbrushed natural-matte finish that doesn't look or feel cakey or dry. It also has a cooling effect on the skin and is sweat-proof, humidity-proof, waterproof and transfer-resistant. Available in 44 shades.
Illamasqua Skin Base Foundation (RRP £33.00, Available at Illamasqua and LOOKFANTASTIC)
This is a lightweight foundation that works for all skin types and tones. It has a creamy formula that melts seamlessly into the skin. With a buildable coverage that can go from sheer to full depending on how you prefer to work it. It has a satin-matte finish that gives a smooth, even complexion and delivers natural glow to the skin. It comes in 26 shades.
By Terry Nude-Expert Foundation Duo-Stick (RRP £30.00, Available at By Terry and Cult Beauty)
This foundation is a unique duo-stick that combines a natural matte foundation and a highlighter in one convenient to use package. It has a creamy-velvety texture that melts into the skin and creates a flawless and luminous natural-matte complexion. It allows you to customise coverage and glow with ease and precision. Available in 10 shades.
Shakeup Cosmetics Let's Face It BB Tinted Moisturiser (RRP £25.00, Available at Shakeup Cosmetics)
Ideal for grooming jobs, this is a product specially designed for men who want to enhance their skin without looking like they're wearing makeup. It's a tinted moisturiser formula that hydrates and protects the skin and has a light coverage that evens out skin tone and reduces redness without looking obvious. It gives a natural matte finish that looks fresh and groomed. Available in 5 adaptable shades.
MAC Cosmetics Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation (RRP £34.00, Available at MAC Cosmetics and LOOKFANTASTIC)
This is a one-step powder and foundation that delivers a smooth, matte finish that lasts through the day. I usually reserve this for grooming jobs, due to the ease of application and the 2-in-1 nature of the product. It's perfect for oily or combination skin types, super easy to apply with a sponge or brush, and you can build up the coverage as you like. I love how it makes skin look flawless and polished, without leaving it heavy or cakey. Available in 53 shades to suit all complexions.
Concealers
Illamasqua Skin Base Lift Concealer (RRP £20.00, Available at Illamasqua, Makeup Pro Store and Amazon)
These creamy concealers have a peachy undertone that helps to neutralise dark circles on all skin tones and give a brightening, lifted effect. An absolute fave of mine to work with, the creamy formula is enriched with Vitamin E and Avocado Oil for a super smooth texture that blends easily and effortlessly and has a beautifully natural finish that doesn't crease or cake. Available in 7 shades.
Glossier Stretch Concealer (RRP £20.00, Available at Glossier)
This concealer is perfect for when I'm creating a more dewy, radiant natural look. One of my favourite formulas to work with, it is, as the name says, a stretchy formula with adaptable mineral pigments, elastic waxes, cocoa butter and avocado & jojoba oils that moves with the skin and provides a gorgeous sheer to medium coverage that blends seamlessly. It's great for covering up minor imperfections, under-eyes and adding some glow to the face. Available in 12 shades.
Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer (RRP £26.00, Available at NARS, Space NK and LOOKFANTASTIC)
This concealer is ideal for when I need a more matte and fuller coverage but with a lightweight feel and finish. It has a soft and velvety texture that glides on smoothly and covers up any imperfections delivering a soft-focus, gently blurred finish. Perfect for blemishes and slightly oilier skin types, it's enriched with hyaluronic acid and peptides for an ultra-smooth skin finish. It's also oil-free and long-lasting, so you don't have to worry so much about touch-ups. Available in 30 shades.
Kevyn Aucoin The Etherealist Super Natural Concealer (RRP £27.00, Available at LOOKFANTASTIC and Space NK)
This concealer is a hybrid between a liquid and a cream, offering a lightweight and buildable medium coverage. It has a gorgeous, natural luminous finish that reflects light and makes skin look flawless by blurring imperfections. This melt-into-skin formula also contains hyaluronic acid and botanical extracts that hydrate and nourish and pearlescent pigments that illuminate the skin. Available in 10 shades.
Beauty Pie Superluminous Undereye Genius Colour Corrector (RRP £25.00/£12.00 for members, Available at Beauty Pie)
This colour corrector is an absolute hero product for me! Specially designed for the under-eye area, featuring an illuminating formula that cancels out dark circles and brightens the eye contour, it's meant to be used under concealer, as it is purely a colour corrector. It has a silky and blendable texture that feels comfortable on the skin. It contains Sunflower and Castor Oils, vitamin E and high-intensity luminosity pigments to help maintain the delicate undereye skin barrier and visibly brighten the appearance of dark circles. Available in 3 shades.
MAC Cosmetics Studio Fix Conceal and Correct Palettes (RRP £32.00, Available at MAC Cosmetics and LOOKFANTASTIC)
These uber-practical palettes contain four shades of concealer and two colour correctors that can be layered or mixed and matched to create the perfect custom shade. It has a creamy and pigmented formula that offers medium to full coverage and a matte finish. Helps to correct skin tone and conceal everything from dark circles and blemishes to tattoos and birthmarks. It's also long-wearing and water-resistant, making it suitable for all skin types and occasions. Available in 6 shade combinations from fairest to deepest.
Shakeup Cosmetics Eye Eye Captain Undereye Concealer & Moisturiser (RRP £20.00, Available at Shakeup Cosmetics)
This concealer is designed for men (or anyone really) who want to look fresh and awake without looking like they're wearing makeup. It has a moisturising formula that features smart colour-correcting technology to instantly conceal dark circles, it also hydrates and soothes the under-eye area, while providing a sheer and natural coverage. With SPF25 to protect the delicate eye area. It's also vegan and cruelty-free. Available in 4 adaptable shades.
Powders
Hourglass Ambient Lighting Finishing Powder (RRP from £27.00, Available at Hourglass, Space NK and Cult Beauty)
This powder is absolutely gorgeous and gives the skin a soft glow without being glittery or cakey. The unique formula delivers a multi-dimensional luminosity to the skin, making it appear softer, smoother and perfectly lit from every angle. It comes in 8 different shades that suit different skin tones and all lighting situations. I use it to set makeup and add some dimension and natural glow to the face.
Also available in travel sizes.
By Terry Compact-Expert Dual Powder (RRP £38.00, Available at By Terry)
This is a dual-toned powder that can be used all-over as a setting powder or to add a bit of dimension to the skin by using the sculpting and highlighting powders separately. It has an almost creamy texture that blends seamlessly into the skin and a matte-satin finish that looks natural and radiant. I love how versatile and easy to use it is.
MAC Cosmetics Blot Powder/Pressed (RRP £28.00, Available at MAC Cosmetics and LOOKFANTASTIC)
This is a staple in my kit for oilier skins or hotter weather situations. It absorbs excess oil and shine without really adding any visible colour or texture to the skin. It's very lightweight and invisible on the skin, and it doesn't clog pores or cause breakouts. I use it to touch up makeup throughout the day, set and mattify the T-zone, especially in intense lighting studio settings, like broadcast sets. Available in 5 shades.
Pat McGrath Skin Fetish Sublime Perfection Blurring Under-Eye Powder (RRP £28.00, Available at Pat McGrath Labs and Cult Beauty)
This is a game-changer for setting under-eye makeup. It blurs out fine lines, wrinkles and imperfections, brightens dark circles and sets concealer without creasing or drying out the skin. It absolutely does not look cakey or powdery. It has a silky texture and the light-reflecting properties deliver a luminous, lifted effect with an incandescent soft-focus finish that makes the eyes look awake and refreshed. Available in 4 shades, including a universally brightening yellow, and 3 skin-matching tones.
Blushers: Cream
Cream blushers are amazing because they give a natural flush to the cheeks, they blend seamlessly with the skin and often they can also be used on the lips or eyes for a monochromatic look (although I'll expand on multi-use products further below). They are also great for dry or mature skin, as they don't accentuate fine lines or texture. Here are some of the cream blushers that I (currently) love and recommend:
Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturiser Blush (RRP £27.00, Available at Laura Mercier, Cult Beauty and LOOKFANTASTIC)
This is a new product that I recently added to my kit and I'm obsessed with it. It's a skincare-makeup hybrid tinted moisturising blush with a hint of barely-there colour that gives a sheer and dewy finish to the skin. Easily blendable, and buildable, it's perfect to create a minimal and natural makeup look or for touch-ups on the go. Due to its moisturising properties, it also helps to give skin a plumped and conditioned look. It comes in 14 shades that suit different skin tones and undertones.
Glossier Cloud Paint (RRP £20.00, Available at Glossier)
This is a cult-favourite product that I'm sure you've heard of before. It's a gel-cream formula that is super easy to apply and blend with fingers or a brush. Ideal to create a no-makeup makeup natural look, as it adds that perfect pinch of colour and dewiness to the cheeks. It has a buildable sheer pigment that lets you control how much colour you want on your cheeks. It comes in ten shades that range from soft pinks to warm corals and deep berries.
Makeup Revolution Superdewy Liquid Blush (RRP £5.99, Available at Revolution Beauty and LOOKFANTASTIC)
This is a super budget-friendly option that delivers high-quality results. It's a liquid-creamy blush with a high pigment payoff that has a lightweight and hydrating texture which melts into the skin, allowing you to blend it easily or build it up to a more intense colour result. It has a dewy finish that adds a natural, glowy-from-within effect to the cheeks. It comes in 8 shades that are highly flattering for different skin tones.
This is a luxury product that is definitely worth the splurge. It's a cream stick blush that has a creamy and velvety texture, enriched with cotton and rose extracts to deliver silky comfort and glide on the skin smoothly. It has a luminous, sheer finish that looks natural and delivers a sophisticated healthy-looking touch of colour to the cheeks. It comes in four shades that are inspired by the natural tones of flushed skin.
Beauty Pie Supercheek Cream Blush (RRP £30.00/£12.00 for Members, Available at Beauty Pie)
Beauty Pie is a membership-based brand that offers high-end quality at an affordable price. The Supercheek Cream Blush is (as the name says!) a cream blush that has a soft and bouncy texture that has a pillowy feel on the skin. It's been a favourite of mine from the first! It has a satin-matte finish that adds a healthy natural radiance to the cheeks. Highly blendable and easily buildable, it comes in 8 versatile, everyday wearable shades.
Victoria Beckham Beauty Cheeky Posh Cream Blush Stick (RRP £36.00, Available at Victoria Beckham Beauty)
This is a relatively new discovery and addition to my kit and I'm loving it. These high-end, easy-to-use sticks deliver a pigment that is absolutely fabulous and they blend beautifully. The creamy texture gives a natural flush to the cheeks that blends seamlessly, is buildable and lasts all day. Available in 7 ultra wearable, versatile shades.
Merit Flush Balm Cheek Colour (RRP £32.00, available at Merit Beauty)
Another new discovery, which I'm absolutely loving, is this pretty balm stick with a flush of colour from new kid on the block Merit Beauty, a vegan, cruelty-free and minimalistic beauty brand. The Flush Balm is available in 9 ultra-wearable shades, but my absolute faves at the moment are Raspberry Beret (a deep berry), Cheeky (a cool pink), Persimmon ( a soft orange-red) and Fox (a warm taupe).
Blushers: Powder
A powder blush is a must-have for any makeup artist. Powder blush adds a touch of colour and warmth to the cheeks, enhancing the natural beauty of the skin and is usually a better option for oiler skins, warmer weather or long hours under strong lighting than the creams. Some of my favourite options for powder blush are:
Hourglass Ambient Lighting Blush (RRP from £27.00, Available at Hourglass, Space NK and Cult Beauty)
Hourglass is one of my fave high-end cruelty-free brands out there. Their formulas are par to none, and these blushers are no exception. With a hybrid formula that combines the soft-focus technology of their Ambient Lighting powders with a pop of colour, they are absolutely beautiful. They blend seamlessly and are ideal to give a soft, natural glow to the cheeks. Available in 8 shades and travel sizes also.
MAC Cosmetics Powder Blush (RRP £24.00, Available at MAC Cosmetics and LOOKFANTASTIC)
These are classic powder blushes that come in a wide range of shades and finishes, from matte to sheer, shimmer and satin. They are pigmented, long-lasting and easy to apply and blend. They also have some iconic colours like Mocha and Melba that suit a wide variety of skin tones and I always keep in my kit, together with shades like Fleur Power, Desert Rose, Harmony and Coppertone. Available in 25 shades.
These are luxurious powder blushes that have a silky smooth texture and a subtle sheen with the signature Chanel subtle rose scent. They add a touch of elegance and sophistication to any look. Use them to add a touch of healthy colour to the cheeks or softly enhance the facial structure. Available in a variety of 10 gorgeous shades that flatter many complexions.
Juvia's Place The Saharan Blush Palettes (RRP £20.00, Available at London Loves Beauty)
These palettes are amazing to add some vibrancy and warmth to the face. They have six shades each, with matte and shimmer finishes. They are highly, highly pigmented, so a little goes a long way. They also work well as eyeshadows. Volume 1 is a selection of deep, rich warm tones and volume 2 is a selection of slightly cooler, fairer tones. Both will suit all complexions.
Highlighters/Skin Dew
These products can help you achieve a radiant and healthy-looking complexion, whether you want a subtle sheen or a dazzling shine. Highlighters and skin dews are products that contain light-reflecting pigments that can enhance your natural features and give you a luminous finish. They can be applied on the high points of your face, such as your cheekbones, brow bones and cupid's bow, or areas you want to illuminate, such as the inner corners of your eyes. You can also use them on your body, such as your collarbones, shoulders, and legs, for an all-over glow. There are different types of highlighters and skin dews, such as liquids, creams, powders, and sticks. They also come in different shades and undertones, so you can find the one that suits your skin tone best. Here are some of the products that I love and recommend:
This is a truly luxurious creamy stick highlighter that has a balmy texture and a transparent finish. Probably one of my most used balms, it adds a natural-looking dewiness to the skin without any shimmer or glitter and without leaving the skin feeling sticky or tacky. It melts seamlessly into the skin for a radiant finish and a lightly hydrated feeling. You can apply it with your fingers or a brush for a quick and easy glow. Available in 6 ultra-wearable shades.
Kevyn Aucoin Glass Glow Face and Body Gloss (RRP £30.00, Available at Space NK)
A fabulous gel-like highlighter that has a glossy effect on the skin without any stickiness. It creates a wet-look shine that mimics the look of glass. It comes in 6 shades that range from clear to bronze. It can be used on face and body for a glass-skin glowy finish. I love mixing it with foundation for that ultra-dewy skin look.
It's also enriched with Pasion fruit and Marula Oils for a little extra hydrating feel.
Makeup Revolution Balm Glow (RRP £5.99, Available at Revolution Beauty and LOOKFANTASTIC)
This is a gorgeous budget-friendly solid-state highlighter that melts into a soft balm texture and delivers a yummy dewy finish. It comes in 8 shades that suit different skin tones and deliver a natural and subtle flush of colour. You can use it on cheeks lips and body for a healthy, dewy glow.
Illamasqua Beyond Liquid Highlighter (RRP £24.00, Available at Illamasqua and LOOKFANTASTIC)
This is a liquid highlighter that has a metallic strobe-like finish and a high-shine effect without being glittery or overly sparkly. An absolute fave of mine, it comes in 3 shades that range from champagne to copper. You can use it on your face and body for an intense glow or mixed into foundation for an all-over, diffused glow. Enriched with Jojoba Oil for a smooth and seamless application, it's vegan and cruelty-free.
Victoria Beckham Beauty Reflect Highlighter Stick (RRP £40.00, Available at Victoria Beckham Beauty)
This is a luxe treat in a creamy, blendable stick that gives a gorgeous glow in seconds. I love how easily it blends, and the texture is so lightweight and comfortable. It's also vegan and cruelty-free. You can use it on your cheekbones, brow bones, cupid's bow, inner corners of your eyes and anywhere else you want to shine.
Bronzers & Contour: Cream
These are some of the best-loved bronzers and contour products that I have in my kit. They are all cream formulas, which I prefer for their versatility, blendability, buildability (ahah) and natural finish. They can be used to add warmth, definition and dimension to the face, and they work well on different skin tones and types.
This is a luxurious gel-cream bronzer that has a velvety texture and a subtle glow. The original cream bronzer, it blends effortlessly into the skin and gives a sun-kissed effect that looks very natural. Still one of my favourite go-tos, the texture is more mousse-like, blends seamlessly and although it is light-reflecting, it's not overly dewy, more of a demi-matte finish. It's not too orange or too grey, and it can be used to bronze or contour or just add a touch of warmth to the complexion. Available in 3 shades.
Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Sunkissed Glow Bronzer (RRP £44.00, Available at Charlotte Tilbury)
This is a gorgeous creamy matte formula that has a soft-focus, almost blurring effect and buildable coverage. Suitable for face and body, it's enriched with hyaluronic acid to help keep skin feeling hydrated and comfortable. It can be used to sculpt and shape the face, or to add some natural, sunkissed warmth and colour. Available in 4 shades.
Huda Beauty Tantour Contour & Bronzer Cream (RRP £31.00, Available at Huda Beauty, Cult Beauty and Sephora)
This is a highly pigmented cream product that can be used as a bronzer or a contour and blends dreamingly. It has a long-lasting formula that is water-resistant and sweat-proof, and it comes in five shades that range from fair to rich, so it's suitable for most skin tones. It can be used to create dramatic or subtle effects, depending on how much you use and how you blend it. It has a natural matte finish that looks like skin and is very flattering.
Illamasqua Gel Sculpt (RRP £25.00, Available at Illamasqua and LOOKFANTASTIC)
This is a unique gel product that comes in a stick form and has a sheer colour payoff. Possibly my favourite contouring product due to its sheer finish, making it virtually seamless and undetectable. It can be used to create subtle shadows and contours on the face or to add a subtle uplifting effect. It has a cooling effect on the skin and a dewy finish that looks very natural. It comes in 3 shades.
Beauty Pie Awesome Bronze Gorgeous Sunkissed Bronzing Cream (RRP £40.00/£16.50 for members, Available at Beauty Pie)
This is an absolutely gorgeous cream bronzer that has a smooth texture and a satin finish. One of my fave new additions to my kit, it blends effortlessly into the skin and gives a warm glow that looks very healthy and natural. It can be used to enhance or sculpt features. It comes in 4 shades that adapt to different skin tones and undertones. And the packaging is so big, there's a lot of product to use. And since a little goes a long way, it's definitely a good value-for-money purchase.
Bronzers & Contour: Powder
These are all powder products that are easy to apply and blend, and they have amazing textures and finishes that look stunning on camera and in person. Here are some of the ones that I love and recommend:
Hourglass Ambient Lighting Bronzer (RRP from £28.00, Available at Hourglass, Space NK and Cult Beauty)
This is a gorgeous bronzer that has a subtle shimmer and a radiant finish. With the same unique formula as their amazing Ambient Lighting Powders, it gives the skin a natural-looking tan and a soft glow that looks like you've been kissed by the sun and looks perfect under any light. It comes in four shades that suit different skin tones and undertones and is also available in travel sizes.
MAC Cosmetics Skinfinish Sunstruck Matte Bronzer (RRP £30.00, Available at MAC Cosmetics and LOOKFANTASTIC)
This is a matte bronzer with a smooth and velvety texture. Their new ultra-comfortable formula is sweat and humidity resistant and gives the skin a warm and natural, healthy bronze that looks like you've just come back from a holiday, with a long-lasting finish that won't crease or fade. It comes in 10 shades that suit most skin tones and undertones.
Illamasqua Colour Correcting Bronzer (RRP £34.00, Available at Illamasqua and LOOKFANTASTIC)
This is a unique bronzer that has a colour-correcting component as well as two tones of bronzer, (making it super versatile, which I absolutely love) one cool and one warm that can either be used individually or blended together with the integrated colour-corrector. It helps to balance out any redness or dullness in the skin and gives it a healthy and even tone whilst delivering a gorgeous sunkissed glow. It comes in three shades.
Eyeshadows: Cream/Stick
Cream or stick eyeshadows are great because they are creamy, blendable, long-lasting and convenient. You can use them as a base, a lid colour, a liner or even a highlighter. And I find they most often look more natural than powder pigments, making them ideal for the no-makeup makeup looks I'm so often requested to do. Here are some of the best ones I've tried and loved:
Nudestix Magnetic Eye Colour (RRP £20.00, Available at NUDESTIX, Boots, and LOOKFANTASTIC)
These are super pigmented and creamy eyeshadows that come in matte and shimmer finishes. They glide on smoothly and last all day without creasing or fading. Some of my fave and most used shades are Terra (a matte warm orange nude), Hot Stone (a matte cool grey tan), Oh! Bergine (a matte neutral eggplant brown), Cocoa (a matte cool espresso brown), Shady Algae (a matte cool smoky blue-green), Sugar, Baby (a luminous shimmering crystal white), Angel (a shimmering neutral nude rose gold) and Burnish (a shimmering warm dark gold).
Laura Mercier Caviar Stick Eye Colour (RRP £26.00, Available at Laura Mercier, Cult Beauty and LOOKFANTASTIC)
These are luxurious and versatile eyeshadows that come in a range of beautiful colours and finishes. They have a creamy texture that blends easily and sets to a budge-proof finish. They can be used as eyeshadows, liners or highlighters. Some of my most used shades are Golden (a golden yellow shimmer), Sunrise (a peach shimmer), Au Naturel (a matte pink grey), Metallic Taupe (a chrome taupe), Tuxedo (a matte back), Vanilla Kiss (a matte light beige), Khaki (a soft brown with bronze-green pearl) and Sugarfrost (a tan beige shimmer).
Beauty Pie Wondercolour Longwear Cream Shadow Stick (RRP £30.00/£9.50 for members, Available at Beauty Pie)
These are affordable (more so if you're a member) and high-quality eyeshadows that deliver rich and vibrant colour payoff. They have a smooth and creamy formula that blends effortlessly and stays put for hours. They also have a twist-up mechanism for easy application. I have them all, but possibly my most used shades are Beige Bombshell (a creamy shimmery ivory), En Taupe (a matte rusty brown), Teddy Bare (a cool matte brown), Copperini (a copper shimmer), Goldie (a rich cool-toned shimmery gold), Chocco (a deep matte brown), Pink Velvet (a matte cool-toned pink), Rosentine (a shimmering rose gold), and Huntress (a bronze shimmer).
Kiko Milano Long Lasting Eyeshadow Stick (RRP £9.99, Available at Kiko Cosmetics)
These are budget-friendly and amazing eyeshadows that offer intense and long-lasting colour. They have a soft and creamy texture that glides on easily and blends well. They also have a waterproof and smudge-proof formula that resists humidity and heat. My current favourite shades are 49 (Ultramarine Blue Shimmer), 57 (Jungle Green Shimmer), 45 (Coral Shimmer), 55 (Copper Metallic), 48 (Forest Green) and 53 (Rose Shimmer).
Chanel Ombre Premiere Satin Finish Longwear Cream Eyeshadow (RRP £32.00, Available at CHANEL and Sephora)
These are splurge-worthy and elegant eyeshadows that come in a chic glass pot with a brush applicator. They have a silky and lightweight formula that applies smoothly and evenly. They also have a satin finish that adds a subtle glow to the eyes. My most used shades are probably 802 Undertone (a nude golden brown shimmer), 804 Scintillance (a warm peachy beige shimmer) and 840 Patine Bronze (a warm-toned metallic medium brown).
Vegan and cruelty-free, these eyeshadows come in a sleek glass jar. With a liquid-to-powder formula that dries quickly and lasts for 24 hours. They come in a variety of finishes that can add dimension and shine to the eyes and shades that are perfect to create fun, editorial, creative looks. My favourite shades are 300 (a metallic champagne pink), 793 (a metallic turquoise green), 306 (a mauve pink shimmer), 423 (a metallic heather purple) and 371 (a matte electric pink).
NYX Professional Makeup Jumbo Eye Pencil (RRP £6.00, Available at Cult Beauty, Boots and Superdrug)
Super affordable chunky pencils that are easily blendable and long-lasting. Highly pigmented and creamy, they come in a wide variety of shades. All-time fave and most used shades are French Fries (warm brown shimmer), Cottage Cheese (a white shimmer), Yogurt (a shimmering peachy-pink nude) and the old (and I believe now discontinued) Pots & Pans (a shimmering silver).
Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerise (RRP £26.00, Available at Charlotte Tilbury)
This is a gorgeous cream eyeshadow that has a mousse-like texture and a metallic finish. It glides on smoothly, blends easily and sets to a crease-proof finish. It can be used alone or layered with other shadows for more dimension. My most used shades are Pillow Talk (a shimmering rose gold pink), Copper Sunrise (a metallic pink-toned copper) and Star Gold (a metallic golden bronze).
Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Longwear Crease-Proof Eyeshadow Stick (RRP £30.00, Available at Victoria Beckham Beauty)
Recent additions and already in love with the pigment intensity, smoothness of application, blendability and durability. This is a luxurious eyeshadow stick that delivers rich colour in one swipe. It's waterproof, smudge-proof, and fade-proof. Fave shades so far are Bottle Green (a deep shimmery khaki green), Caramel (a shimmery bronze), Pecan (a deep matte brown), Trench (a matte beige) and Oyster (a shimmery Pearl). Which is basically the whole range bar the matte pink (Macaron) and yellow (Sunflower) shades. Ahah
Dear Dahlia Paradise Shine Eye Sequins (RRP £31.00, available at LOOKFANTASTIC)
Because sometimes you just need a little glitter! These gorgeous liquid glittery eyeshadows are vegan and cruelty-free. In a lightweight, water-based formula that combines high-reflect pearls and glitter and with a whipped texture, they glide on smoothly and have virtually no fall-out. Available in 12 wearable shades, my most reached-for shades are Actress (a platinum gold & opal glitter), Muse (a mermaid pink & opal glitter), Goddess (a champagne pink with gold shimmer), Diva (a champagne gold with aurora glitter) and Heroine (a soft beige brown with silver & opal glitter).
Eyeshadows: Powder
These are some of my fave eyeshadow palettes on the market at the moment. From the quality of pigment to the shade selection, I can create any look with these.
Huda Beauty Obsessions Palettes (RRP £29.00, Available at Huda Beauty, Cult Beauty and Sephora)
These mini palettes are perfect for my kit because they are so portable and still have a wide variety of shades. Each one has nine highly pigmented and blendable shades that range from shimmers to mattes in a variety of complementary tones. My most used on my kit are the Nude Obsessions in Medium Nude, Brown Obsessions in Chocolate, Haze Obsessions in Sand and Gemstone Obsessions in Topaz.
Pat McGrath MTHRSHP Eyeshadow Palettes (RRP from £27.00, Available at Pat McGrath, Selfridges and Cult Beauty)
These palettes are the epitome of luxury and glamour. They feature a selection of stunning highly pigmented shades that have a buttery soft and smooth texture that blends like a dream, and a mix of metallic, matte, satin and glittery finishes. Fave palettes to carry in the kit at the moment are MTHRSHP: Rose Decadence Eye Palette, MTHRSHP MEGA: Celestial Odyssey and The Love Collection MTHRSHP Eye Palettes in Sublime Seduction, Velvet Liason and Iconic Infatuation.
Viseart Petites Palettes (RRP £35.00, Available at Guru Makeup Emporium and Sephora)
These palettes are a great, more compact version of some of the original full-sized much-loved-by-professional-makeup-artists palettes, but there's also some original edits, which makes them so practical to carry on my kit. They have a fabulous selection of versatile high-pigment shades that can be used wet or dry with the same amazing butter-soft texture that blends like a dream and have a matte, satin or shimmer finish. My kit faves are the Petites Mattes Neutral, Petites Mattes Editorial Brights, Étendu Paris Love Letter, Petites Shimmers Paris Nudes and the Petit Pro Trois.
Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Palettes (RRP from £45.00, Available at Charlotte Tilbury)
These palettes are designed to create infinite eye looks with complementary shades, and they have that signature Charlotte Tilbury glam feel and finish to them. With a rich and velvety texture that blends oh so smoothly, and a mix of matte and shimmer finishes. My kit faves are sadly discontinued. They were the Icons Palette and the Dazzling Diamonds Luxury Palette, but the Easy Eyes Palettes in Super Nudes and Charlotte Darling, Instant Eye Palette Smoky Eyes are Forever, and the Luxury Palettes in The Sophisticate, The Golden Goddess and Pillow Talk Dreams are quickly taking over those fave spots!
Juvia's Place Eyeshadow Palettes (RRP from £10.00, Available at Superdrug)
These high-quality, affordable palettes are inspired by different cultures and regions of the world. Having been created originally with darker skin tones in mind, the pigments are extraordinarily intense in the best way possible! They have a variety of colours and finishes, from pastels to jewel tones, ranging from mattes to metallics. Some of my kit faves are The Magic Mini Eyeshadow Palette, The Saharan Eyeshadow Palette, The Nomad Eyeshadow Palette and The Nubian Eyeshadow Palette.
Eyeliners
These are the ones that I reach for when I want to create stunning eye looks for my clients, whether it's a classic wing, a smudgy smoky eye, or a pop of colour.
Kevyn Aucoin The Precision Eye Definer (RRP £29.00, Available at Sephora)
This is a twist-up, self-sharpening super-soft pencil that glides on smoothly and delivers intense and long-lasting semi-matte pigment. It blends easily but once it sets, it's waterproof and smudge-proof, so it lasts all day without fading or transferring.
Beauty Pie Ultra Colour Pro Gel Eyeliner (RRP £22.00/£8.00 for members, Available at Beauty Pie)
This is simply put, a smooth gel formula in a pencil. It's butter-soft, creamy and easy to blend, glides like an absolute dream and once it sets, it stays put. It's also vegan and cruelty-free. I love the rich colour choices and the option of matte or metallic finishes.
Victoria Beckham Satin Kajal Liner (RRP £26.00, Available at Victoria Beckham Beauty)
This is an absolute luxe gel kajal pencil that has a creamy texture and a choice of shades and finishes from matte to shimmer and metallics. It's perfect for creating smoky eyes or adding definition to the lash line and it's safe to use in the waterline also. I absolutely love how easily it glides and blends and that it sets into a long-wearing, waterproof finish. And the colour options are lush!
Chanel Calligraphie de Chanel Intense Waterproof Cream Liner (RRP £30.00, Available at CHANEL)
This is a deluxe cream liner that comes in a jar and requires a brush application. It's waterproof and long-wearing, and it has a matte finish. It's ideal for creating precise lines or graphic shapes. With an intense pigment, this is one of those that has proven just how long-wearing, sweat-proof and water-resistant it is (I literally made-up an entire ballet cast with this and it lasted through the whole performance!), which is why it keeps having place of pride in my kit.
Illamasqua Precision Gel Liner (RRP £21.00, Available at Illamasqua and LOOKFANTASTIC)
This is another gel liner that comes in a pot. It's water-resistant and smudge-resistant, and it has a semi-glossy finish. It's great for creating bold looks or adding some definition to the eyes. I love the brown shade, which is incredibly versatile and will many times be a more natural and softer alternative to a very stark black.
Mascaras
For the most part, I'm a firm believer that you don't have to spend a fortune on mascara, as the results you get are more often than not more dependent on the brush than on the formula. That's not to say that some formulas out there aren't superb, enriched with lash-nourishing ingredients, superior pigment quality and longer-lasting wearability. These are some of my favourites.
Eyeko Black Magic Intense Mascara (RRP £19.00 Available at LOOKFANTASTIC and Cult Beauty)
This is my go-to mascara for dramatic lashes. It delivers fab volume, length and curl in one swipe. It's also smudge-proof and water-resistant. And it's cruelty-free. Also, love the packaging, because it creates almost zero wastage since it's a squeeze tube. I always keep this in my kit in both Black and Cocoa Brown for those more natural, no-makeup looks.
Kevyn Aucoin The Volume Mascara (RRP £27.00, Available at Space NK)
This is one of the original tubing mascaras that wraps each lash in a thin film of product. It's great for natural-looking lashes that are still defined and separated as it has a short bristles brush that coats even shorter lashes easily. It's also easy to remove with warm water, so it's really great for more sensitive eyes or to finish off more natural looks.
Kevyn Aucoin Indecent Mascara (RRP £27.00, Available at Space NK)
This is another mascara from Kevyn Aucoin, but this one is a bit more traditionally intense and volumising. It has a cone brush that lifts and coats every lash. Their unique blend of waxes creates a creamier formula for buildable volume and a lightweight feel and the lash-caring formula with red clove and mung bean extracts helps to build the appearance of dense lash volume while leaving lashes feeling soft. It's perfect for those glam looks that last all day.
Maybelline Lash Sensational Lengthening Mascara (RRP £9.99, Available at Sephora, LOOKFANTASTIC and most drugstores nationwide)
This is a drugstore favourite that delivers long and fluttery lashes. It has a fan-shaped curved brush that reaches every lash and coats them with a rich formula. It's also affordable and easy to find. To be honest, you can't really go wrong with good ol' Maybelline mascara. There's literally one for everyone. I also always keep this in my kit in both Black and Brown.
Kiko Green Me Volume Mascara (RRP £13.99, Available at Kiko Cosmetics)
This is a vegan and eco-friendly mascara that delivers a soft and fluffy lash look. It has a natural formula that nourishes and strengthens lashes. It also has a curved brush that helps to create a more curved and lifted effect on the lashes. Enriched with naturally derived ingredients, including organic shea butter, it has a smooth, fluid texture that helps to separate the lashes and build a smooth volume look.
Rimmel London Extra Super Lash Mascara (RRP £4.99, Available at Amazon, Sephora and most drugstores nationwide)
I love carrying a selection of brown mascaras on my kit, they deliver a softer, more natural finish, ideal for no-makeup makeup looks, working with teenagers or very fair blondes or redheads. Brown mascaras are surprisingly difficult to find so I end up having to change what I carry quite often, but one of my current faves (apart from the above-mentioned options) is this Black-Brown from Rimmel London.
Eyebrow Grooming
These are the products that I swear by and use on myself and my clients.
West Barn Co Soap Brows Original (RRP £15.00, Available at West Barn Co and LOOKFANTASTIC)
This is a cult-favourite product that gives that fluffy, laminated look without any harsh chemicals or glue. It's vegan, cruelty-free and comes in a cute tin that can be reused. You just need a spoolie and some water to activate it and then brush it through brows. It also comes in tinted options, but for use in my kit, I prefer the original, untinted version, since it's universal and will work on everyone.
Charlotte Tilbury Brow Cheat Micro Precision Eyebrow Pencil (RRP £24.00, Available at Charlotte Tilbury)
This is a super-fine pencil that easily mimics the look of natural hairs. It has a creamy, long-lasting formula that glides on smoothly and delivers just the right amount of pigment. It also has a spoolie on the other end to blend and groom brows. I love the range of shades that suits most hair colours and skin tones.
Kevyn Aucoin The Precision Brow Pencil (RRP £26.00, Available at Space NK)
This is a classic product that has been around for years and still delivers amazing results. It has a thin, retractable hard tip that allows you to create precise, smooth strokes and fill in any gaps without excess pigment. It also has a spoolie on the other end to help soften any lines and shape brows.
Schwarzkopf Got2b Glued 4 Brows & Edges 2-in-1 Gel (RRP £5.50, Available at Boots, Superdrug and Amazon)
This is a clear gel with a super strong hold that locks brows in place and gives them a glossy, laminated finish. It also works as an edge control for baby hairs and flyaways. Vegan, silicone and alcohol-free, it has a strong hold but it's not sticky and it doesn't flake or leave any residue. The brush is designed for precise and controlled application and styling of either brows or baby hair edges.
Glossier Boy Brow Grooming Pomade (RRP £18.00, Available at Glossier)
This is a brow gel that adds some oomph to natural brows. It has a tiny brush that coats every hair with a natural-looking pigment and a flexible wax that keeps them in place. Ideal to create natural-looking, fluffy brows. It comes in 5 shades: clear, blonde, auburn, brown and black. I usually mostly keep the clear shade in my kit as it's completely universal and will suit everyone.
Beauty Pie Arch-Ology 2-in-1 Clear Brow Gel (RRP £25.00/£10.00 for members, Available at Beauty Pie)
This is a clear gel that sets brows without making them stiff or crunchy. It is infused with a brow growth and strengthening formula, working double time to help keep brows healthy and groomed. Ideal to achieve fluffier-looking brows. There's also a tinted version with a selection of 3 shades.
For lips, I have a variety of colours and finishes to suit every mood and occasion. Here are some of my favourites.
Lip Liners
Lip liners are essential for defining the lip contour, preventing lipstick from bleeding, and help make lip colour last longer.
In my pro kit, these are the lip liners that I most reach for, repeatedly.
Kevyn Aucoin Unforgettable Lip Definer (RRP £22.00, Available at Sephora, Space NK and Selfridges)
This is a creamy and pigmented lip liner that glides on smoothly and has a built-in brush for blending. It comes in 6 lip shades that match most lip tones and are ideal to create natural, precise, flawless-looking lip contour and volume.
Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Lip Liner (RRP £20.00, Available at Charlotte Tilbury)
This is a velvety, creamy and long-lasting lip liner that glides on and blends seamlessly. It comes in 17 shades that mimic the natural lip hues and some that will match bolder lipstick choices and create a seamless finish. I use this lip liner when I want to create a fuller and plumper lip look.
Chanel Le Crayon Lèvres Longwear Lip Pencil (RRP £24.00, Available at CHANEL and Selfridges)
This is a soft and waterproof lip liner that resists fading and feathering. It comes in 12 shades that complement any lipstick colour and has a dual-ended design with a pencil and a brush. I use this lip liner when I want to create a long-lasting and smudge-proof lip look.
Lipsticks
Pat McGrath MatteTrance Lipstick (RRP £36.00, Available at Pat McGrath Labs, Cult Beauty and Selfridges)
This is one of my favourite matte lipsticks ever. It has a creamy texture that glides on smoothly and lasts for hours. The pigmentation is incredible and the colours are stunning. I have several shades in my kit, but my go-to ones are Flesh 3 (a deep rose), Beautiful Stranger (a coral rose), Christy (a divine beige peach), Omi (a mid-tone rose), Femmebot (a mid-tone neutral pink) and Venus in Furs (a rose).
Pat McGrath SatinAllure Lipstick (RRP £26.00, Available at Pat McGrath Labs, Cult Beauty and Selfridges)
This is a newer addition to my kit, and I'm so glad I discovered it. It has a satin finish that feels comfortable and moisturising on the lips. The colours are vibrant and flattering, and they have a subtle shine that makes the lips look fuller. I love the shades Divine Rose (a cool blush pink), Nude Romantique 2 (a cool neutral pink nude), In the Flesh (a warm Rosewood), Skinsane 2 (a warm rose nude) and Venusian Peach (a light peachy nude).
MAC Cosmetics Powder Kiss Lipstick (RRP £24.00, Available at MAC Cosmetics and LOOKFANTASTIC)
This is a unique lipstick that has a powdery texture and a matte finish. It feels lightweight, moisturising and soft on the lips, and it gives a blurred effect that looks very modern. The colours are beautiful and versatile, and they can be layered, diffused or mixed to create different looks. Some of my favourites are Mull It Over (a dirty peach), Marrakesh-Mere (an intense orange-brown), Sweet, No Sugar (a warm medium peach), Sultry Move (a bright rose brown), Mandarin O (a bright creamy salmon pink), Lasting Passion (a clean bright red), A Little Tamed (a mid-tone pink with yellow undertones) and Kinda Soar-Ta (a medium-dark mauve).
MAC Cosmetics Matte/RetroMatte Lipstick (RRP £22.00, Available at MAC Cosmetics and LOOKFANTASTIC)
These are the classic matte lipsticks from MAC that have been around for a long time. They have a rich and creamy formula that delivers full coverage and long-lasting wear. The colours are iconic and timeless, and they suit every skin tone and occasion. Some of the shades that I always have in my kit are Yash (a deep neutral), Whirl (a dirty rose), Mehr (a mid-tone mauve pink), Chili (a warm brick red), Ruby Woo (a retro vivid blue-red), Relentlessly Red (a retro bright pinkish coral), Velvet Teddy (a deep-tone beige), Soar (a mid-tone cool mauve), Runway Hit (a retro light nude), Russian Red (an intense bluish-red), Tropic Tonic (a full power coral), D for Danger (a berry red), All Fired Up (a retro bight fuschia), Act Natural (a light greyed nude with gold undertones), Derriere (a dirty brown with gold undertones), So Chaud (an intense reddish orange), Honeylove (a light beige toned with rose), Viva Glam III (a muted brownish-plum) and Diva (an intense reddish-burgundy).
MAC Cosmetics Amplified/Satin/Cremesheen/Lustre Lipstick (RRP £22.00, Available at MAC Cosmetics and LOOKFANTASTIC)
These are the lipsticks that have a more creamy and glossy finish from MAC. They have a smooth and hydrating formula that feels great on the lips. The colours are vibrant and varied, and they add a pop of colour and shine to any look. In the case of the lustre lipsticks, they are more of a sheer veil of colour, making them great for very natural looks. Some of the shades that I love are Crème In Your Coffee (a creamy midtone pink brown), Sweet Sakura (a true red with soft gold pearl), Pretty Boy (an intense pink coral), Dare You (a deep brown red), Smoked Almond (a bright rose brown), Craving (a burst of plum), Brave (a pink beige with white pearl), Twing (a soft muted brownish-pink), Rebel (a midtonal cream plum), Creme Cup (a light blue pink), Modesty (a muted neutral pink), Mocha (a peachy yellow-brown), Morange (a loudmouth orange), Vegas Volt (a full power coral), Faux (a muted mauve-pink), Dubonnet (a midtone wine), Retro (a muted peachy-pinky brown), Spirit (a muted pinky-beige brown), Cosmo (a pink cocoa), Brick-O-La (a midtone berry), Half-N-Half (a creamy pink), MAC Red (a vivid bright bluish-red), Fast Play (a neutral pink), Syrup (a blue pink), Posh Pit (a warm rose brown nude), Lady Bug (a tomato red), Hug Me (a blushed nude), See Sheer (a grapefruit pink), Brave Red (a bright yellow red), On Hold (a midtone yellow raspberry), Crosswires (a clean pinky orange) and Captive (a pinkish plum).
Illamasqua Sheer Veil Lipstick (RRP £20.00, Available at Illamasqua and LOOKFANTASTIC)
This is a lipstick that has a sheer and balmy texture that gives a natural and fresh look to the lips. It has a nourishing formula that contains vitamin E and jojoba oil, and it adds a hint of colour and gloss to the lips. The colours are subtle and wearable, and they can be layered or mixed with other lip products. Some of the shades that I like are Maple (a neutral caramel brown), Over (a sheer bright pinky coral), Hi-Note (a strawberry fuschia), Pose (a dusty rose pink), Seville (a pale terracotta), Sherbert (a creamy peach) and Starshine (a candied apple red).
Illamasqua Antimatter Lipstick (RRP £20.00, Available at Illamasqua and LOOKFANTASTIC)
This is a lipstick that has a semi-matte finish that looks sophisticated and elegant on the lips. It has a creamy formula that applies smoothly and evenly, and it has a high colour payoff that lasts for hours. The colours are bold and impactful, and they make a statement with any look. Some of the shades that I adore are Meteor (a muted pink), Fahrenheit (a clean orange-red), Bang (a muted pink nude), Maya (a light pink nude), Midnight (a bright blue red) and Isotope (a bright clean pink).
Charlotte Tilbury Matte Revolution Lipstick (RRP £27.00, Available at Charlotte Tilbury)
This is a lipstick that has a matte finish that looks velvety and luxurious on the lips. It has a hydrating formula that contains orchid extract, 3D glowing pigments and oils, and it shapes and enhances the lips. The colours are glamorous and flattering, and they are inspired by celebrities and icons. Some of the shades that I most reach for are Pillow Talk Original (a nude pink), Pillow Talk Medium (a berry pink), Sexy Sienna (a golden coral), Red Carpet Red (a true ruby red), Lost Cherry (a pastel fuschia pink), Very Victoria (a taupe nude), Wedding Belles (a delicate rosebud pink), First Dance (a blushed berry rose), Mrs Kisses (a golden peachy-pink), Tell Laure (a warm orange-red) and Walk of No Shame (a berry rose).
Chanel Rouge Coco Ultra Hydrating Lip Colour (RRP £37.00, Available at CHANEL and Selfridges)
This is a luxurious lipstick that has a creamy finish that looks radiant and refined on the lips. It has a moisturising formula that contains jojoba oil, mimosa butter, sunflower wax and silicone, and it plumps and smooths the lips with its luminous pigments. The colours are elegant and sophisticated, and they are named after Coco Chanel's friends and lovers. Some of the shades that I cherish are 434-Mademoiselle (a rosy nude), 428-Legende (a neutral medium-dark pink), 444-Gabrielle (a true red), 430-Marie (a warm deep pink), 438-Suzanne (a warm medium plum), 432-Cecile (a warm light-medium pink), 452-Emilienne (a muted reddish-pink with fuschia pearl) and 440-Arthur (a light-medium orangey-red).
Dear Dahlia Lip Paradise Intense Satin/Sheer Dew Tinted Lipstick (RRP £30.00, Available at LOOKFANTASTIC and Amazon)
These have a creamy texture, a rich colour payoff, and a long-lasting formula that keeps lips moisturized and beautiful. Plus, it's vegan and cruelty-free, which I love. It comes in 10 gorgeous shades, from nude to bold. My most faves in my kit are Marilyn (a bright pink coral), Ruby (a deep ruby red), Carmen (a medium brick red), Kate (a pink beige) and Victoria (a dewy pink with mauve undertones).
Lip Glosses
These are the lip glosses that I swear by and use all the time.
Pat McGrath LUST Gloss (RRP £27.00, Available at Pat McGrath Labs, Cult Beauty and Selfridges)
This is a luxurious gloss that delivers high shine and rich pigment. It has a smooth and creamy texture that feels comfortable on the lips. It comes in a variety of shades, from nudes to reds to plums. Some of my favourites are Flesh Fantasy (a lush pink beige), Flesh 6 (a rich rose brown), Sunset Rose (a warm rose with golden pearl), Bronze Divinity (a bronzed rose with gold and pink pearl), Secret Lover (a mid-tone plum rose) and Love Potion (a pale pink taupe with iridescent pearl).
This is a hydrating gloss that adds a touch of colour and luminosity to the lips. It has a lightweight and non-sticky formula that nourishes the lips with coconut oil and vitamin E. It also has a subtle vanilla scent that I love. My go-to shades are 119-Bourgeoisie (a shimmering warm medium plum), 738-Amuse-Bouche (a warm dark fuschia with pearl), 724-Burnt Sugar (a warm medium-dark rosey-caramel with pearl), 716-Caramel (a mid-tone neutral caramel) and 722-Noce Moscata (a medium warm-toned pink with fine beige and gold pearl).
Nars After Glow Lip Shine (RRP £25.00, Available at NARS, Cult Beauty and LOOKFANTASTIC)
This is a vibrant gloss that gives a burst of colour and shine to the lips. It has a gel-like texture that glides on smoothly and evenly. It also has raspberry seed oil and pomegranate extract to protect and moisturize the lips. My favourite shades are Chelsea Girls (a warm pink beige), Orgasm (a peachy pink with golden shimmer), Nympho (a cool taupe brown), Turkish Delight (a pink sherbert) and Supervixen (a shimmering rose bronze).
Multi-use Sticks/Creams
These products are perfect for creating a quick and easy look that works for cheeks, lips and eyes. They are also great for travelling or when you need to touch up your makeup on the go. Here are some of the best ones I've tried and loved.
Nars Multiple (RRP £33.00, Available at NARS, Cult Beauty and LOOKFANTASTIC)
This is a classic product that comes in a variety of shades and finishes. You can use it to add a pop of colour, a subtle glow or a bronzed effect to the face. I love the shade Orgasm for a peachy-pink flush that suits most skin tones. Other shades I often reach for are G-Spot (a rich gold-infused rose), Maui (a sheer dusty rose) and South Beach (a light shimmering apricot).
This is a new discovery for me and I'm obsessed with it. It's a creamy stick that blends effortlessly and has a matte finish. You can use it as a blush, a lip colour or an eyeshadow. The shade 318 is a gorgeous bright orange-pink that brightens up any complexion. Other shades I'm loving are 362 (a fresh natural pink), 503 (a nude pink), 385 (a raspberry pink) and 369 (a rich pink brown).
Ilia Multi-Stick (RRP £38.00, Available at Sephora and Naturissimo)
This is a natural and organic product that nourishes skin while adding some colour. It has a sheer and dewy finish that looks very natural and fresh. It can be used on cheeks, lips and eyes for a monochromatic look. Shades I'm loving are At Last (a mauve rose with cool undertones), All of Me (a warm watermelon), Dreamer (a warm nude with peachy undertones and a hint of brown), A Fine Romance (a bright berry) and Lady Bird (a neutral rose with pink and brown undertones).
Typology Tinted Lip & Cheek Balm (RRP £17.50, Available at Typology)
This is a vegan and cruelty-free product that hydrates skin with shea butter and apricot oil. It has a balmy texture that melts into the skin and gives a soft tint. It can be used on lips and cheeks for a healthy glow and dewy finish. It comes in 5 universally flattering shades, Dusty Pink, Ruby Red, Powder Pink, Coral Orange and Plum Purple.
Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lip & Cheek Glow (RRP £30.00, Available at Charlotte Tilbury)
This is a luxurious product that has a creamy texture that glides on smoothly and has a luminous, dewy finish. It can be used on lips and cheeks for a radiant flush. The shade Colour of Dreams is a cult-favourite warm rosebud-pink and the shade Colour of Passion is a deep blushing berry-pink and they are both universally flattering.
These are some of the products that make me happy as a professional hair & makeup artist. They help me create beautiful looks that enhance my clients' natural beauty and make them feel confident and fabulous. I hope you enjoyed reading about them and maybe found some inspiration for your own makeup collection. Please also note this will be an ever-evolving and updating post as some of my favourites might get discontinued or I might discover other products that just take the cake and will take pride of place on my kit.
Disclaimer: All opinions and views are my own, from experience with the products, but there might be some affiliate links and I may earn a small commission from sales.