Pussy Willow Couture Show

Alina wears Armani silk lipstick in no. 13

Yesterday I was creating the make-up look for the Pussy Willow Show. All the models had different coloured lips and a random swish of white paint over the eye with really dark heavily coated lashes. Bright lips are really on trend for this Spring/Summer and there is an array of amazing colours out there. My favourites yesterday were the Armani silk in No 4 and No 13 http://www.giorgioarmanibeauty.co.uk/_en/_gb/catalogue/MAKE_UP/product.aspx?prdcode=AP12003&tpcode=MAKE_UP_LIPNAIL_LIPSTICK

I wanted to create a look that was sophisticated and polished but also reflected the boldness and confidence of Amanda's designs.

Pussy Willow is a lovely and relaxed boutique on Bermonsdey Street and well worth a visit. Amanda Thompson, the brains behind the brand, designs beautiful and sophisticated clothes that are classic but also bold and perfectly tailored to flatter your figure. With wedding season coming up I am definitely going to invest in a few pieces. http://www.pwillow.com/

Fashion week finish

So I'm back from Paris after three days of working with make-up artist Hannah Murray. I've been her first assistant this season, so it's been a busy few weeks, but also a lot of fun.
During the shows there's a lot of running around backstage. When the models line up for the beginning of the show, finishing touches are applied and a dusting of powder is always at hand for any shiny skin or to matt down greasy skin.
I am not generally a fan of powder, as it can make your make-up look heavy and unnatural. However, it is an important piece of make-up and essential for any unwanted shine. The right powder and brush makes a big difference to the finish.
Most people only need to powder down the t-zone (unless you have particularly greasy skin) and often people make the mistake of using a big brush with too much product. I love Ruby and Millie brushes. http://www.boots.com/en/Ruby-Millie/
 They have a great small blusher brush which is perfect for powdering. It’s small enough to get the powder in the grooves around the nose and under the chin, but also good for dusting the forehead and under the eyes (if needs be).
I prefer to use loose translucent powders. My favourites are:
Make-up Forever HD powder - It's not available in the UK, but if you're visting a Sephora soon pop in and stock up. http://www.sephora.com/browse/product.jhtml?id=P210400&categoryId=S10810&shouldPaginate=true
Mac Prep and Prime is a great alternative to this http://www.maccosmetics.co.uk/product/spp.tmpl?CATEGORY_ID=CAT27293&PRODUCT_ID=PROD93850  and Laura Mercier mineral powder is another one I can highly recommend.