Bobbi Brown's basic instincts

In theory, cosmetic czar Bobbi Brown may have mastered the art of heavy theatre make-up in college. But on a daily basis, the less-is-more guru swears by all things simple.

Her latest collection for autumn 2009 is filled with breezy strokes and sounds easier than making a cup of instant noodles. A smoky eye on an otherwise clean face or scarlet-stained lips are the foundation of her new Nude collection.

"This season is all about making a bold statement against a natural backdrop — whether it's a deep-red lip, a smoky eye or shimmery cheeks. But I wouldn't recommend doing all three at once.

"The most modern and flattering way to wear bold looks is to keep the rest of your look natural and just focus on the one area that you want to highlight," Brown tells tabloid!

A pioneer of minimalist make-up, Brown is quick to clarify that nude make-up does not mean zero make-up. "All it means is wearing shades and textures that are flattering to your natural skin tone. It's just about having a clean, polished, pulled-together look."

She is also eager to call the bluff on all those who consider make-up application a tedious task. Labelling it as one of the biggest beauty myths, the cosmetic founder whips up a five-minute formula. Brown says applying your morning make-up takes as much time as brewing a pot of coffee.

"Here's how to pretty up in about the same amount of time."

An advocate of natural beauty, even her list of favourite celebrity clients hinges on all those who embrace their natural scars and craters.

"I really enjoyed working with Meryl Streep, Brooke Shields and Sienna Miller. In addition to being physically beautiful, they are very confident and comfortable in their own skin," says Brown who has transformed a string of Hollywood beauties into picture-perfect creations.

Beauty routine

Bobbi Brown's beauty regimen is as hassle-free as her products. "I tend to keep my beauty routine pretty simple — I rarely spend more than 5 or 10 minutes on my make-up in the morning."

Bobbi reveals What's in her own vanity case

A creamy yellow-toned concealerA stick or compact foundationA blush in a shade that looks like my cheeks after I've exercisedA lip gloss

Go get it

Try the Shimmer Brick from Bobbi Brown's new Nude collection. Dh312

Brown on her ...

First big break: "I had been working as a freelance make-up artist for several years in New York when I landed the cover of Vogue in 1987. I did Naomi Campbell's make-up and I got to work with photographer Patrick Demarchelier. It was an incredible experience."Beauty mantra:"Simplicity has always been my mantra, but these times call for it more than ever. I'm seeing customers spending more on practical basics. They're buying the products that they know they'll use until the very last drop, like concealer... a little bit under the eye makes you look fresh and well-rested."Instant face-lift formula:"Under-eye concealer is my No 1product for giving your face an instant, energising lift. It can literally make you look like you've had eight hours of sleep even if you've only had five."

Brown on her ‘desert island' cosmetic

"Concealer is my desert island cosmetic. I wouldn't dream of living without it. More than lipstick or mascara, concealer is the one product that dramatically improves the way you look. When applied correctly, it instantly makes you appear awake and refreshed, no matter what's going on in the outside world."

Brown's favourite celeb clients

Brooke Shields, Sienna Miller and Meryl Streep. "In addition to being physically beautiful, they are very confident and comfortable in their own skin," Brown says.