It’s a day when most of us will want to make an effort, but rather than vamping it up with lashings of lipstick, this Valentine’s Day is all about playing up your natural features for a classically romantic look that’s as elegant as it is simple. “For the perfect Valentine’s Day look, your make-up should be fun and flawless with an emphasis on natural beauty,” says make-up artist Michelle Waldron. She talks us through the perfect Valentine’s Day kit and techniques for a gorgeously love-struck, ladylike look...
Your Valentine step-by-step
Roses may be red and violets blue, but neither colour features in our delicately dreamy Valentine’s palette, which uses pearly pinks and soft shimmers for an elegant look that’s more dewy damsel than femme fatale. Make-up artist Michelle (www.michellewaldron.biz) tells us how to keep it fresh and fun with a hint of pastel romance.
1. Begin by prepping your skin with Dermalogica Barrier Repair (Dh189) – this little miracle cream acts as a moisturiser, primer and protective barrier. Next, apply Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk Foundation (Dh240, Harvey Nichols), using the Armani Blender Brush (Dh210). Allow the base to set and then sweep Mac Blush in Dolly Mix (Dh112) on the apples of the cheeks and up towards the temples for a softly romantic, flushed look.
2. Now move on to your eye make-up. I applied Mac Paint Pot in Bare Study (Dh105) all over the eyelid. Paint Pots act as a lid primer and help keep your eyeshadow in place. Then I applied Mac Pigment in Melon (Dh210). A little of this goes a very long way! Pigment is so versatile you can use it as your blush or add it to lip glosses or even clear nail varnish. Finish the eyes by layering up those lashes with Giorgio Armani Eyes To Kill Mascara in Black (Dh185, Bloomingdale’s).
3. Finally, perfect your Valentine’s look by lightly applying Bobbi Brown lipstick in Pale Pink and rubbing your lips together. Top it off with a coat of Mac Lipglass (Dh86). Now you’re ready to go!
