NIKI'S NEW MAKE-UP VAULT

MY TIPS FOR UNDER EYE DARK CIRCLES

2011-05-10T07:41:00.000-07:00

The basics...

Six to eight good hours sleep

Hydrate with plenty of water throughout the day

A healthy diet including fruit and vegetables and excersise at least three times a week

A daily routine of moisturing the eye area night and morning. Pat eye products gently around the orbital bone not too close to the eye using your ring finger.

The make up...

Apply a tiny amount of peach toned colour corrector onto the dark area under the eye using a make up brush, preferably made from synthetic hair. Pat with fingertip to blend into the skin evenly.

Apply a little undereye liteweight concealer, again using a make up brush. Once again, use a fingertip to pat and blend the concealer. Remember, less is more you only need a little amount of product on the brush.

Apply a highlighting pen directly to the shadowed area, a tiny amount is necessary. Pat with fingertip to blend and smooth into the skin for a natural finish.

Set with a little, light dusing of powder using a small brush. Tap excess powder off the brush before application.

Neutralise the colour on your eyelids using a good eyebase before applying any eyeshadow. Set with a Cream or bone coloured matte shadow to achieve the perfect blank canvas before applying colours.

Use a liquid/cream/powder highlighter under the browbone and at the inner and outer corner of the eyes dabbed lightly with a finger or a brush to really brighten the eyes.

Apply an off white pencil inside the rim of the lower eyelid to awaken the eyes.

Apply a lighter eyeshadow on the lid and a deeper shade in the eye socket and outer corner, this will also help to open the eyes .

Complete eye make up with mascara and eyeliner to define the eyes.

Niki Loves...

Bobbi Brown's peach corrector and Georgio Armani's master corrector

Laura Mercier's under eye secret concealer

YSL Touche eclat highlighting pen

MAC #217 or #224 brushes

Laura Mercier Invisible loose setting powder

MAC Eyepaint shade: Untitled

Highlighters include Daniel sandler watercolour 'Icing', MAC cream colour base 'Pearl' and Benefit 'highbeam'

Benefit eyebright pencil

MAC and Bobbi Brown eyeshadows

Maybelline and Max factor mascaras

My Make-up artist top tips for applying strip eyelashes!

2011-05-05T11:51:00.000-07:00

Apply normal eye make-up i.e shadow, liner mascara first.

I would recommend buying some Duo adhesive available at MAC cosmetics and specialist make up shop Charles Fox, Covent Garden. I find the glue in a lot of the lash kits not strong enough to keep the lashes on properly and they start to lift off. This glue however, I have used for years on many clients and never have a problem. It is a very gentle glue as well and suitable for sensitive skin.

Always hold the strip lash roughly in place of where you are going to position it before applying glue as they are more often than not too long and may need the edge simply trimmed off with a small pair of nail scissors so it fits perfectly. Apply glue to the lash strip I usually use the end of a narrow make up brush which can easily be wiped clean afterwards. Allow the glue to become a little tacky for a few seconds before application this will ensure it sticks well.

Apply the lash looking down slightly but directly into a large mirror, magnifying if possible.You can use tweezers to hold the lash in the middle as you position it as close to the lash line as possible and then gently move it to set in line with your own lashes. Sometimes on myself I find it easier without tweezers just using my fingers so play around and find what works best for you. Again at this point I will use a clean make up brush with a fine end to gently press down the lash strip to ensure the glue sets well. You can use cotton buds but I sometimes find fine fibres from them and these can get into the eye.

Repeat on the other eye. Now apply a little mascara if you feel it necessary to blend some of your own lashes into the false ones. From experience this is usually more noticeable towards the outer corner of the eye. The important bit is to get right in at the root of the lashes to lift the mascara though your lashes and into the false ones. To finish off at this point I usually add a little more eyeliner gently to the top lash line this will help to further disguise any gaps between your own lashes and the falsies.

NEW LIPSTICKS!

2011-05-04T07:17:00.000-07:00

I have just purchased two new lipcolours for my make-up kit. I was specifically looking for sheer fresh looking pinks to achieve a natural hint of pink to the lips. As a make up artist you would think I would have these shades already but recently I have been struggling to achieve the colour I want from the colours I have, which incidentally is a lot!

The two lucky lippies I chose are Christian Dior 'Dior Addict' shade '353 Blush' and MAC 'Sheen supreme' shade 'Bare again'. The MAC lipstick is slightly more of a nude pink whereas the Dior one has a little kick more of colour. Both lipsticks feel lovely and moisturising on and leave lips with a beautiful moist appearance. I particularly like the feel of the Dior Addict lippie and will definitely be investing in some more colours.

These new formulation of lipsticks are much sheerer and glossier in appearance than your normal choice of lipstick. I absolutely love both of them for the colour, payoff and packaging.
The MAC is in sleek black shiny casing and the Dior is in chunky clear almost iridescent plastic which I love because it looks and feels ultra expensive to me anyway!

Neither has actually made it into my kit yet as I have obviously had to try them out on myself numerous times..........

My top five products for Make up that will last the day

2011-04-27T13:52:00.000-07:00

1) Daniel Sandler Retextursing face primer - keeps make up on and smoothes fine lines and pores at the same time.

2) MAC eyepaints- I have used this fabulous product for years as an eyeshadow base and its still the best I have found for keeping shadows on all day and without creasing!

3) Daniel Sandler Watercolour blushers- Blusher no longer wears off by lunchtime! In a beautiful array of colours theres definitely one to suit every skintone and you will still have a healthy flush at midnight!

4) MAC splashproof Black mascara - tried and tested. An old favourite of mine.

5) Bobbi Brown Longwear gel eyeliner - Fabulously long wearing liner thats lasts well and comes in a great choice of colours.

A little blog from my recent Dubai trip.

2011-04-27T09:54:00.000-07:00

A little bit of Henna fun on board a Dubai river cruise!

Bridal Make-up must have!

2011-04-02T10:23:00.000-07:00

Daniel Sandler Retexturising primer -A little miracle in a tube!

I have tried numerous primer's but Daniel Sandler's is my favourite and an absoulute staple item in my make-up kit.

Moisturise skin as normal then apply a large pea sized amount to the face. Focus specifically around the eyes, mouth and forehead for an ultra smooth complexion.

Apply this silky light weight primer before foundation to keep make up in place all day and help foundation glide onto the skin smoothly.

This Primer is a colourless silicone based gel. It glides onto the skin like silk, is light reflecting and oil-free. The product is suitable for all skin types and really does smooth away fine lines and wrinkles for a flawless complexion.

£20.45 at http://www.beautique.com/

IN THE NEWS :GOLDEN GLOBES BEAUTY

2011-01-17T02:40:00.000-08:00

Stunning Anne Hathaway dazzled at The Golden Globes in a low backed Armani gown. Hair worn loose and glossy complimented her beautiful feminine make-up.

Make-up Artist Kate Lee used mostly Chanel make up to achieve the look.

Skin: Chanel Sublimage Concentrate, NARS oil free pro prime, Chanel Vitalumiere foundation, kevyn Aucoin blusher, Chanel natural finish pressed powder.

Eyes: Chanel fluid iridescent eyeshadow in 'sand' (rose gold), blended with taupe in the socket line. Lahes were curled and Chanel Inimiatable waterproof black mascara applied.

Lips: Chanel Rouge Coco Lipstick in 'Maidmoiselle' and Chanel Coco Shine in 'Bel Amie'(availble in April).

IN THE NEWS: GOLDEN GLOBES BEAUTY

2011-01-17T02:18:00.000-08:00

A belated Happy New Year! My first blog of 2011... oh dear I have been a bit slack but hope this makes up for it! What beter way to break back into blogging mode than to check out some of the Golden Globe beauties.

Natalie Portman scooped a Golden Globe for 'Best Actress' in the film 'Black Swan'. She looked beautiful in a pink 'Victor & Rolf 'dress with red flower and as the face of Miss Dior Cherie sported a beautifully flawless, luminous make-up at the awards.

Her Make up artist Sarai Fiszel achieved Natalie's look using Dior make-up.

Skin: Dior Hydra Life Sorbet Creme, Dior Skin Forever Extreme wear make-up #020 and Dior blush in 'Rosebud'.

Eyes: Dior five colour shadow (soft pinks) #018, Dior waterproof eyeliner in 'Trinidad black' Diorshow lash Maximizer, Diorshow Iconic mascara.

Lips: Dior Lipcolour 'Star fuchsia' #766

My year in pictures!

2010-12-17T05:56:00.000-08:00

Bntm shoot the winner!

Some of this years brides getting ready on their big day!

Early starts are often the case on shoots so a good breakfast is a must!

Behind the scenes on a Shout magazine shoot...

Some of the delights I see at Location houses used for photoshoots...

A bit of kit!

Yesterday's Fashion & Beauty Shoot

2010-12-16T08:01:00.000-08:00

Yesterday's shoot was all about pastels. Lots of denim outfits and ballerina style dresses. Very pretty, whimsical, girlie looks to come for spring 2011.

For the hair I did long loose waves and a pony tail with and without a quiff plus a high bun placing the hair around a doughnut ring. There was quite a few different looks mostly fifties inspired!

For the eye make up I used pale lilac and individual lashes for one look followed by yellow shadow with false lashes, then green eyeshadow and bright pink nails and to finish pale blue eyes...

Quite a busy day, one model but lots of changes plus we shot fashion as well as beauty.The image shows some of the products/colours used. The shoot will be out mid February for Shout Magazine.

Party make-up

2010-12-09T11:38:00.000-08:00

Yesterday evening I did make-up for aproximately twenty five people at a christmas party in The Starland Social club in Wandsworth. I gave most of the clients a very quick smokey eye with some sparkle on top or liquid liner and false lashes with red lipstick. Everyone loved the false lashes and wanted those and most had never worn them! Most of the ladies had some sparkle too it went down really well! The theme of the party was 'a right royal christmas'. As guests arrived they were given a crown to wear and then they could have a little make-up whilst enjoying the evening. It was a great idea and the clients enjoyed something a bit different.

Products I mostly used to achieve the looks are listed below and I would reccommend to try over the christmas party season.

Eylure False lashes
MAC reflects glitter
MAC silver dust
MAC Ruby woo red lipstick
Bobbi Brown black gel liner
MAC carbon black shadow

Benefit eye BRIGHT!

2010-12-06T08:31:00.000-08:00

I have recently started using Benefit's 'eye BRIGHT' pencil and had to share it with you. I think this pencil is well worth the investment! Its become a firm staple in my personal make-up bag and its only my true 'fave' products that end up there and not in my kit!
A chunky pink toned pencil that brightens the eyes for a wide awake look... no fibbing this pencil really works. The difference after I apply it to the inner rim of my eyes is very noticeable. I really like this pencil as it is soft and easy to apply, many other liners I find are far too hard to use around the eye. The colour of the pencil is the main 'wow' factor for me as most brightening liners are white and appear to Stark and noticeable when worn. Other pencils I have tried are an off -white, almost yellow toned shade. These aren't as white looking on but they don't do or look that great either. The subtle soft pink hue of 'eye BRIGHT' really wakes up the eyes making them appear naturally bigger and brighter.

Award for the best eye brightening pencil definitely goes to Benefit!

INSPIRE:Whimsical Beauty Moodboard

2010-12-02T07:05:00.000-08:00

This morning I have been having fun cutting and sticking - takes me back to my college days! I am doing a beauty test in a couple of weeks and I am planning to do strong eyes(vivid and intense shades of green,purple and gold). The lips will be a deepest, darkest red. I might have to throw in a bit of sparkle or reflects somewhere too, well it is the festive season! The whole feel of the make-up, hair and lighting will have a whimsical and dramatic vibe. I was inspired by christmas party glam', sparkle and glitz, and of course the snow!

IN THE NEWS:Topshop make-up

2010-12-01T08:37:00.000-08:00

Whilst Christmas shopping in St Albans today I saw Topshop had in their make-up range. I had a little messy fun! Below are my faves!

Make-up artist recommends:

creme blusher in 'nutmeg' and 'neon rose'
lip balm in 'dew' and 'sheen'
lip polish in 'iced coffee'
These were just a few of my favourites the range is actually quite good and I love the polka dot and stripes packaging. Some Topshop make-up would make a nice gift for a friend or a treat to yourself!

My Party make-up must haves!

2010-11-30T09:13:00.000-08:00

1 Elizabeth Arden 'Eight Hour cream'. Essential Cream to keep lips moisturised.
2 Clarins 'Beauty Flash Balm' for a great lift for the skin before you apply make-up.
3 Benefit 'Girl Meets Pearl' for a radiant glowing complexion.
4 Bobbi Brown 'Longwear gel eyeliner black' for defined evening eyes that last.
5 MAC eyeshadow's in Honeylust, rice paper, nylon, patina, amberlights and bronze finished off with a little carbon for serious smokeyness!
6 Maybelline 'Volume Express the falsies mascara' in black drama for big lashes.
7 Use some False eyelashes to complete the look.
8 Topshop creme blush in 'nutmeg' for a natural flush to wear with dramtic eye or lips.
9 All shades of Barry M nail polish I love them! A definite must have for party nails!
10 Sally Hansen Airbrush legs for gorgeous pins in your LBD.
Finally a touch of MAC silver dust here and there for a bit of a sparkle :)

In the News!

2010-11-29T08:31:00.000-08:00

On Sunday 28th November I did the lovely Kate's bridal make-up for her wedding at The Fennes in Braintree, Esssex. A beautiful location for a blushing bride, if you haven't seen it you might want to check out their website here: http://www.fennes.co.uk/fennes-index.shtml

I did the make-up for Kate plus her sister and her mum at the last minute it was a bit tight compared to the weddings I have done this year...I was literally leaving as the ceremony began!

For the brides make-up I used a little Laura Mercier secret concealer under the eyes and MAC cover up for a little coverage but no foundation as at the make-up trial we decided Kate prefered as little as possible on her skin as she doesnt usually wear foundation.

On the eyes...MAC untitled eyepaint on the eyelid with a little MAC shroom on top and a little MAC Esresso(brown) at the corner of the eyes. MAC Omega was blended softly through the eye socket to complete the eyeshadow. I used Bobbi Brown gel liner in dark brown along the top of the lashline and slightly underneath and lashings of MAC black splashproof mascara. I applied quite a few individual eylure lashes along the top of the eye to make her eyes look bigger and fluttery.

On the cheeks...MAC cremeblush in ladyblush which is a beautiful soft pink for a fresh flush and MAC creme colour base in luna to highlight the top of the cheekbones.

On the lips...MAC lip pencil in dervish, MAC Viva Glam V lipstick and Daniel Sandler 3d lipgloss in galaxy to give a rose pink natural sheen to the lips.

To finish...a little MAC Blot powder in medium dark to the t-zone with a brush to take away any unwanted shine on the face.

How I started my career as a Make-up Artist

2010-11-26T03:47:00.000-08:00

I am often asked "How I started out as a make-up artist and how I became successful" so I have decided to write a quick piece for you as to how I got started.
I have always had a passion for make-up, art, fashion and colour from as long as I can remember so following school it seemed the natural step to go on to do both a successful foundation art studies course at Camberwell college followed by a degree in hair & make-up at the prestigious London College of Fashion.

During my studies I worked part time as a MAC make-up artist which provided invaluable additional make-up skills. After studying I did indeed work full time for MAC for almost a year as a resident trainer. This role involved training artists on make-up application, customer service and hygiene. Whilst doing this I did an amazing training workshop with MAC in LA which to this day remains a high point of my career!

When I decided to leave MAC and work as a freelance Make-up artist the hard work and perseverance really kicked in. I had to do an awful lot of work for free to gain experience in the field and make contacts which you hope lead to further work but quite often do not. I have assisted various make-up artists to gain further knowledge, again unpaid and finally a lot of test shoots. Test shoots if you aren't familiar are an opportunity for you as well as the photographer, model and sometimes stylist to work together creatively to gain images for your portfolio. Test shoots sometimes work and you get beautiful images and sometimes they don't for whatever reason and you may not be able to use those images. As you can tell this is a long and hard process to go through and that is before you even get any paid work so you need to be 100% committed and supported by those around you.

I had an Agency represent me for three years and I think I felt I was successful when I managed to get an Agent as it can take a lot of phone calls and meetings initially to even get that far. I left my Agent this year as I like to be in control and organise what I do myself and knew I had enough experience, work and clients to go it alone. Gradually you do start getting more and more work and start to build clients that regularly work with you. I now mostly work for advertising campaigns and editorial magazines doing both fashion and beauty and real life/makeover shoots as this is the area I enjoy most. Clients include Shout, Red, Glamour, Prima , Boots, Argos and many more. There are many diverse areas of the make-up industry to work in so you really have to find what you enjoy most.

I will start with the low points in my career as I always like to end on a high! Being over an hour late for a shoot when everyone is waiting for the make-up artist to do their work so the shoot can get going has taught me to always leave at least two and half hours to get anywhere in London in rush hour. Being prepared to be quite poor for quite a while when starting out as it can be tough and literally have no shame when it comes to getting work sometimes badgering people may not be easy but it can get you a job.

The highs... LA for training, Milan for fashion week, London fashion week and other big London shows like Fashion Rocks and Armani One Night Only, and every single day I am on a shoot working I am always happy!

IN THE NEWS: NORTH FACE ETIP GLOVES

2010-11-23T09:19:00.000-08:00

The Etip glove from North Face available at John Lewis (£25.00) are so amazing I had to share them with you. I constantly have the problem whereby I have to remove my gloves to operate my i-phone but no more! You can work your phone and laptop easily with these gloves on. The branded X-Static material on the fingertips manages moisture and regulates temperature to enable use in all weather conditions. Fabulous and great for make up artists on set working outside as these gloves are slim and easy to wear. The silicone grip on the palm of the gloves helps during all types of activity ie working outside in the freezing cold!
Better still they are Machine washable!

Christmas Wishes!

2010-11-22T09:06:00.000-08:00

Today I am feeling festive maybe because its freezing outside and Christmas is now only a little over four weeks away! I thought I would share with you some lovely things that are on my Christmas wish list...

Bobbi Brown pink pearl eyeshadow no.16

Nicky Clarke compact heated rollers

Chanel Etrait de gloss no. 57 pink

Bodyshop cocoa butter

Aveda Hand cream

Chanel Allure perfume

Benefit brightening primer 'That gal'

Benefit 'U rebel' and 'U Rebel light' tinted moisturiser

Make up Forever HD microfinish powder

YSL Ltd edition shimmering gold highlighter pen

Thats all for now!

INSPIRE:A recent test shoot...

2010-11-15T07:33:00.001-08:00

Last Friday I did a test shoot with Photographer Ian Hooten. The make-up and hair began quite natural and simple as you can see below. Next I went stronger with the eye make-up and for the last shot I experimented with some felt.... I am not sure I achieved what I was looking for with the felt but thats why I did the test, some tests work some don't! These are not however the final images just an example of what we did.

Eye Make up products I used were all by MAC and included carbon black shadow plus the following matte brown shadows (espresso, symmetry, cork and embark). Untitled eyepaint was used as a base, eyeliner consisted of MAC smoulder kohl pencil, Bobbi brown gel eyeliner and MAC splashproof black mascara. False lashes were added from Mister Mascara and applied using Duo adhesive. I also used this glue to stick pieces of felt onto the face in the third look. Base products used include Chanel Vitalumiere foundation, Laura Mercier secret concealer and MAC blot powder. On the lips... Daniel Sandler lipgloss in super femme worn over MAC Oak lip pencil and MAC lipstick in fleshpot. When the images are ready I will hopefully choose a favourite one or two for my portfolio.

INSPIRE: Images in my workspace...

2010-11-11T07:38:00.000-08:00

Today I thought I would share with you some much loved images that I have collected and have dotted around my office at home to keep me inspired and smiling. I have to have colourful, visual and decorative works around me as I just couldn't work in a dull boring environment!
Hope you enjoy as much as I do!

IN THE NEWS: WATERCOLOUR BLUSH

2010-11-10T09:28:00.000-08:00

My make-up product of the moment is Daniel Sandler's award winning watercolour liquid blusher in shade 'Cherub'. Many of my clients ask about this product as I apply the liquid to my hand from its dinky bottle it seems to attract immediate attention. I love Cherub watercolour because it gives the effect of a natural, fresh looking cream blush yet is waterproof and lasts all day. I like to apply with my fingertips to the cheeks, blend a little then use a foundation brush to blend further for a perfect finish. A tiny dot of this product goes a long way and there are a variety of other shades to choose from. Cherub is my favourite as it is a subtle baby pink that I find suitable for most skin tones. This oil free product is particularly great if you are prone to blush disappearing by lunch time!

Available from Harrods Urban retreat & http://www.beautique.com/ at £12.00.

Inspire: Moodboard fun!

2010-11-09T06:57:00.000-08:00

I have been having so much fun creating a moodboard for a test shoot I am doing this Friday. My inspiration came from December's Star Vogue issue and my love of christmas and all things twinkling! After seeing a photograph of the model I think she has a look of Sophia Loren about her so I am thinking make-up and hair will be hollywood 'starlet' themed and painfully glamorous! I am going for dramatic eye liner and an abundance of lashes, big soft loose curls in the hair and then maybe a modern twist on a french pleat for a variation. To be a tad more creative, inspired by my favourite artist Henri Matisse and his cut out artworks I have decided to use felt attached around the eye using eyelash glue in the form of a gigantic star. Its a new medium for me as I have never worked with felt before so I am really looking forward to it. After the shoot final images will follow so I will keep you posted!

IN THE NEWS: A day in the life...

2010-11-05T04:00:00.001-07:00

Wednesday this week started earlier than most at five am due to the tube strike in London. I left the house at 5.40am to miss any potential traffic nightmares. As a result I was at my destination, a beautiful location house in Ealing at 6.20am! It was still dark and felt like the middle of the night, not so surprisingly I felt tired so I tried (emphasis on tried)to snooze in my car as I was at least two hours too early.....

At 8.30am I saw the Photographer arrive so I entered the house, introduced myself and started to set up my kit. I set up at the kitchen table as the light was amazing through the huge glass doors and windows surrounding me. After a quick read of the call sheet the photographer and I realised it was to be a very busy day. The morning consisted of a fashion shoot with four different outfit changes. Hair consisted of natural loose waves and gorgeous shine and the make-up was natural with radiant skin, these remained the same throughout the shoot I just had to tweak the model's hair occasionally and retouch the lipgloss. By 12pm we had covered the fashion shot and set about shooting two options for the magazine cover, once that was in the bag it was time for a well earned lunch break. A delicious selection of sandwiches and cakes were delivered to keep us going!

After lunch I did make-up and hair for two ladies who were being photographed for a fitness article within the magazine. The make-up was very natural and fresh faced and hair was basically in loose ponytails. Finally at 3pm I did hair and make-up for a columist who was to appear in an article in the magazine. The styling consisted of various shades of grey so I opted for two shades of grey on the eyes to create a soft smokey look. Hair was left long and loose with a mixture of soft curls just through the ends of the hair which I created using straightening irons and sea salt spray to give texture.

All in all a very busy shoot day we wrapped at 5pm which was very good considering the amount we did in one day. the journey home was't too hellish either it took me an hour, only twenty minutes longer than it should have taken, considering the tube strike and rush hour that was pretty good going!

Well that's all for now folks! A typical day in the life..

Inspire:

2010-09-28T07:42:00.000-07:00

When perusing the internet I found some inspirational and crazy make up's from some of our best known
Performers. These celebrities are well known for their strong make-up looks. From Boy George breaking boundaries back in the eighties to Lady Gaga and Beth Ditto causing controversy more recently. Love them or hate them its always fascinating to see! Well it is for me anyway...

Autumn/Winter 2010 Make-up trends:

2010-09-14T02:56:00.000-07:00

Make-up for Autumn/Winter 2010 is actually quite minimalist its about doing one thing really well with your make-up for example a beautiful lip or immaculate skin.

The big trends include the statement lip varying in tones from orange red to blackened plum. Lip Balm is therefore an essential item this autumn/winter as such bold shades need to be worn on well nourished soft lips to look good. If a bold berry or red scares you try patting the colour on from the lipstick bullet with your finger tip, even blend with lip balm for a softer more wearable look. If you have the confidence make a statement with shades of deep purple, aubergine, berries, burgandies and plums. To achieve a perfect finish touch up around the lips with a little concealer on a fine brush after application of colour and apply a lipliner to begin with. The red lip will always be around but to keep it looking modern tweak the texture and shape. High gloss or finger painted gives edge and keep the skin almost bare with this look. For evening why not try adding red glitter to the centre of the lip.

Amazing Eyeliner is graphic and hard edged rather than soft and smokey. Use gel and liquid liners to create elongated flicks.

The new smokey eye suffers all shades of neutral without using strong or shimmery colour. Try shades of taupe, caramel, mink, honey, sand, beige, camel, apricot, rusty brown, gold and bronze.

Brows are strong and well defined to achieve a well-polished look. Think high maintenance brow grooming. Well defined brows instantly take years off as they represent youth and give the face structure.

The Unexpected look this season is any colour goes for eyes and lips as long as its bright, vivid and dramatic. Try azure blues on the eyes and team with orange lips. Use flashes of bright yellow, electric blue and pillar box red to compliment hair and eye colour. For night try a smokey blue eye.

Immaculate skin Use mattifiers, primers, light foundation and concealer to layer products to achieve this look. Use foundation only where necessary and apply with a brush or fingertips. Sculpt features in neutral tones. Use powder only on the centre of the face where absolutely necessary. Highlights are BIG, but not shimmering achieved with lotions and creams rather than powders. Use gloss or light face cream for shimmer free highlights on the cheeks.

Have fun experimenting with these different looks!

2010-07-22T06:22:00.000-07:00

My summer Essentials....

I often get asked by my clients and friends what make-up and skin care products I use so today I thought I would share with you my personal summer essentials that I use everyday.

Inside my bathroom cabinet:

Bodyshop Cocoa Butter I Have used this product since my early teens, it is a very rich intensely hydrating moisturiser that is great for very dry skin and cracked heels and elbows as well as leaving skin gorgeously soft and glowing. It smells divine!

Creme de la mer the gel cream I have been using creme de la mer skin care since my early twenties and thoroughly believe in this 'wonder' cream. I occassionally break out in eczema on my eyelids and face and this cream is the only cream I have found to beat it! I absolutely love the silky, light feel of this luxurious face cream.

Creme de la mer eye balm I also use the eye balm patted very gently around the orbital bone area night and morning. I have to put a little on my eyelids aswell as they can get very dry.

Urban Retreat Ultra fast tan During the summer months I always apply a fake tan to achieve a healthy looking golden glow. This year I discovered Urban retreat's spray on tan in a can which gives a great naturally even and surprizingly long lasting colour.

Clarins Eau Dynamisante Invigorating fragrance Once again a staple summer fragrance that I have continously used since my mid teens, it is a gorgeous summery and light refreshing scent that evokes memories of holidays gone by. I usually carry this in my bag and spritz away throughout the day. It definitely has 'the feel good factor'.

Loreal Eye Absolute Eye & Lip make-up remover I only discovered this product recently but absoloutely love it! I use it every night to easily and gently sweep away all traces of eye make-up. I also use it in my make-up kit-it removes even stubborn waterproof mascara with no effort at all. It is non-greasy but has the feel of water so it is suitable for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers.

Aveda hand cream I have tried a lot of hand cream's over the years but I always come back to this one. I try to use it everyday but often forget... It is extremely hydrating and smells pretty good too.

Aveda foot cream I have used this foot cream on and off over the last ten years, it really is great for moisturising and softening hard soles and I love the minty invigorating fragrance as you apply it.

Nivea Light SPF 20 I always use this if I know I will be out in the sun as I find I still tan but without burning and its great as it is non greasy.

Boots Soltan SPF 50 Stick I have used this product for a couple of years now. I have a few large scars so I apply plenty of this to them before I leave the house in the morning and quite often carry it with me for touch ups through out the day.

Inside my make-up bag:

Laura Mercier tinted bronzing gel I have used this product every summer for years now. It achieves a gorgeous, natural and glowing tan for the face and saves me having to wear foundation or damage my skin by getting a real tan. I have not found another product that even comes close to this it truely is amazing!

Lancome Bronzing powder I have used lancome bronzing powder for years and love the natural sunkissed look it achieves. I sweep it all over the face and neck with a large powder brush to achieve a natural finish after applying my Laura Mercier gel.

MAC studio finish concealer A fabulous concealer that provides ultra long lasting coverage, I use this under the eyes mixed with a little moisturiser and apply it directly to blemishes.

YSL Touche Eclat Another staple product for me that I have always used. I apply this over concealer under my eyes to highlight any shadows. I also use it around the mouth to accentuate the cupids bow and detract from shadows at the corners of the mouth.

MAC Eyepaint 'Untitled' I have long raved about this product it is better than any other primer or eye base I have tried! I use it on almost everyone, it is my favourite product in the world and I hope it is never discontinued! Apply a small amount over the lids to keep eyeshadow in place all day without creasing and it also evens out the skin tone on the lid perfectly.

MAC Eyeshadow 'Amber lights' This is my favourite colour eyeshadow to wear-a beautiful bronze. It opens my eyes and contrasts well against my dark brown eyes. It is a wearable everyday shade that even I am probably stuck in a rut with!

MAC Lipstick 'Faux' I have worn this colour most of the time over the last seven or so years maybe with different lip pencils and glosses but it is my favourite muted pink for everyday. The main reason behind this is many years ago when I first wore it my partner exclaimed "That's a lovely lip colour on you" and bearing in mind I worked at MAC at the time and he saw me in all sorts of make-up looks on a daily basis and never ever commented this comment stuck and I have pretty much worn it ever since....

Body shop brow gel clear I have always used a brow gel everyday without fail to keep my brows looking polished and well groomed. Brush through in an upwards direction and smooth over with fingertips to shape.

Maybeline False Effect Mascara At the moment this is my mascara of choice. It is always hard trying to find the perfect mascara but this one pretty much ticked all the boxes with me. Its reasonably priced and made the most of my short, fair lashes.

MAC creme blush 'Virgin Isle' I mostly use this colour during the summer months. It accentuates a tan beautifully. It is a bright orange that may look a little scary in the pot but if you pat on the apples of the cheeks and blend well it will create a fresh healthy flush of colour.

Well thats all my current fave's I hope you have enjoyed reading this as much as I have enjoyed writing it. Enjoy the summer!

IN THE NEWS

2010-05-28T08:33:00.000-07:00

ASOS Fashion Show:

I recently was part of the make-up team at a fashion show for ASOS at Mary Ward House in London. All of the models were brave staff members strutting down the catwalk as part of their Big Social yearly event where all ASOS staff get together!

Claire Cox headed up the hair team and Jenny Glynn the make-up team. There were forty models, twenty five female and fifteen male and between four hairstylists and four make-up artists we had two and half hours to do the hair and make-up.

The hair was worn high up on the girls in a bun, the guys had minimal grooming literally a touch of concealer and powder if necessary. We painted the girls nails prior to make-up in a deep berry shade.

The make-up look consisted of moisturising the skin well to begin then mixing MAC Strobe cream with foundation to achieve a dewy finish. We used MAC pigment in pink opal mixed with Elizabeth Arden 8hour cream on the high points of the face to achieve a strong highlight. Eyebrows were defined and the eye sockets strengthened using MAC texture eyeshadow. One layer of mascara finished the eyes. A touch of cream blush in Tint by MAC on the cheekbones to define a little and the lips were a Strong berry getting ready for autumn winter trends already!

Below are some of my personal snaps from the event.

IN THE NEWS: ALL FOR EVE

2010-05-12T06:08:00.000-07:00

A new beauty brand 'All for Eve' has launched exclusively to Harrods Urban Retreat by beauty entrepreneur George Hammer. The range is designed to create awareness of gynaecological cancer and donates 100% net profits to the 'Eve appeal'.

The line consists of six products including a red lipstick, body butter, body lotion, hand cream, body wash and a swarovski crystal nail file. Each product is designed by a leading industry professional for example, the red lipstick is designed by celebrity make-up artist Daniel Sandler. Another two products will launch in June including a nail polish created by nail queen Sophy Robson and a rich and moisturising body scrub.

The products have already received numerous industry beauty awards.

Every year one million women worldwide are diagnosed with gynaecological cancer, 18,000 of those are in the UK. The Eve Appeal is determined to create awareness and raise funds for gynacological cancer.

Products can also be purchased online at either www.beautique.com or www.hqhair.com.

IN THE NEWS:HISSYFIT.

2010-05-09T09:10:00.000-07:00

I was recently given some training on the Hissyfit range so I thought I would share with you a little information about the products.

Created in Australia, by Australian Olympic Gold Medallist Louise Dobson and magazine editor Sue Smethurst. Neither could find a foundation that offered maximum sun protection so they created their own. The Hissyfit range is now available at Urban Retreat, Harrods, London.

This unique range offers products for the face, body, hands and lips, providing sun protection, skin care and make-up all in one! The fantastic 3-in-1 benefits include *Mineral beauty *SPF50 and *Anti-ageing skincare. Vogue Australia says... "It's the holy grail of make-up".

Products include....'Saving face', a super smart 3-in-1 foundation offering broad spectrum protection SPF 50, flawless coverage and anti-aging botanical extracts. Contains a blend of mineral powders and natural sunscreens. You can choose from eight carefully selected shades to match every skintone (nude, light, sand, medium, fresh, rich, latte, and mocha).

'Body double', a body lotion that pampers with a 'couture' fragrance, intensely hydrates and protects the skin as well as fighting the effects of environmental aging. Contains SPF 30+ and UVA/UVB protection.

'Handy work', is a personal favourite! An anti-aging hand cream that uses botanical extracts and broad spectrum protection SPF 30+ to fight the visible signs of aging, whilst intensely hydrating.

'Lip service', I adore this glossy lip balm, it offers anti-aging SPF 50 + UVA/UVB protection, whilst moisturisng the lips using shea butter, jojoba oil and vitamin E. Available in four great shades including berry, guava, plum, and toffee plus a clear shade. I have been using the clear over my favourite lip colour to add protection, shine and nourishment to my lips and I must say it feels and looks great!

Products are paraben free and water-resistant. Prices are also very reasonable with all products under £25.00.

See www.hissyfit.com for more information.

IN THE NEWS: FOUNDATION /BASE BRUSH

2010-04-30T08:09:00.000-07:00

FOUNDATION/BASE BRUSH:

This brush is made from synthetic hair and suitable for use with the majority of cream/liquid based cosmetic products as it is easy to clean afterwards. For hygiene reasons this brush should be cleaned after every use as foundation for example will 'go off' on the brush overnight. Use a shampoo and warm water or a professional brush cleaner, after you have cleaned the brush leave it to air dry on the edge of a surface so that air is able to circulate the entire brush head.

Apply foundation to the tip of the brush only, there is no need to apply foundation to the entire brush head. Begin by applying foundation to the centre of the face nose, forehead and chin using the brush to blend the product outwards evenly towards the hairline, you generally need a little more coverage in the central parts of the face. I mostly opt for a dampended brush to apply foundation as it makes the brush easier to control.

Use the brush to blend the foundation until you can see no visible strips of colour. When applying product to the brush do not rub the brush into the product, apply a minimal amount of make-up to the brush tip and apply a little to the face at a time. Keep adding more product and blending until you achieve the desired coverage you are looking for. This is great because you can achieve a very natural coverage or a heavy duty coverage depending on how you use the brush to control the product. When applying the make-up use a firm yet gentle pressure to control the application. If the end result appears to thick and heavy, you have either applied to much product to the brush or simply added too much not knowing when to finish. Use only the tiniest amount of foundation at a time to see a difference, less really is more!

A foundation or base brush as they are sometimes known can also be used to apply other cream and liquid products as well as simply foundation. I often use them to apply cream or liquid blushers as well as liquid bronzers and highlighters. This brush is also ideal for applying body make-up, perhaps a highlighter across the decolletage or concealing a scar or tattoo with cover-up make-up.

Foundation brushes may not always be convenient to everybody for every day use in our often hectic and busy lifestyles, however they are certainly worth using for a great night out or a special occasion. Using a brush to apply foundation results in a flawless and an ultra long-lasting finish to your make-up. As with all make-up brushes invest in one and look after it and it will last you a very long time.

Beauty Tips: Bridal Make-up

2010-04-09T05:32:00.000-07:00

Beauty Tips-Bridal Make-up:

Create a “timeless” look with your bridal make-up. Ideally it should be a little stronger than you are used to wearing. You still want to look like ‘you’ although you want to look at your absolute best and have wonderful photographs to prove it.
Whether you have opted to hire a Professional Make-up Artist for the day or have chosen to apply your own make-up it is worth having a trial run at least one month before the wedding. This gives you plenty of time to make sure you are happy. If you are looking for a Make-up Artist, it is often good to go on recommendation from a friend or search the internet and choose after seeing the artists work and previous experience.

Product tips:
Invest in a primer. It keeps make-up in place all day. A silicone-based primer will even smooth out fine lines and open pores to achieve a flawless look. A great example of this is Daniel Sandler Retexturising face primer £20, Urban Retreat Harrods.
Use waterproof mascara to avoid any smudges or mascara running disasters. I recommend MAC Splash-proof mascara £10.50.www.maccosmetics.com
Opt for an eye-base before applying eye-colour, it will keep eye-shadow fresh all day and prevent colour creasing. I like Laura Mercier Eye Basics £18.00 Space N.K
Powder using a translucent compact, this will set the make-up. Translucent will not change the colour of your chosen foundation. Keep a compact with you during the day for touch-ups and to remain shine-free in your important photographs.
Choose waterproof/long-wear products wherever possible to ensure your make-up lasts well into the evening.

Make-up tips:
Choose a lip colour one or two shades deeper than your natural lip-colour to show in your photographs.
Always try the make-up in good light, natural daylight is best and try to wear light clothing similar to that of your dress to reflect the make-up at its best.
When applying eye make-up use a lighter colour on the majority of the lid and a deeper shade in the socket line to define and open the eyes. I would experiment with shades of taupe and brown.
To brighten eyes use a dot of highlighter at the inner and outer corner as well as under the arch of the brow, to make the eyes look bigger add a white eyeliner to the inside rim of the eye.

See Niki’s Bridal Make-up examples at www.nikimakeup.co.uk

Beauty hygiene tips:

2010-03-01T10:09:00.000-08:00

Are you guilty of holding on to your favourite cosmetic and using it until the bitter end? Do you own a cracked broken compact? Using an old dried out mascara? Own an embarassing dirty make-up bag? If any of these sound familiar you might like to read on…

Clean make-up brushes and beautifying tools such as eyelash curlers and tweezers with an antibacterial hand wash/shampoo and warm water. Place some cleaning product in the palm of your hand, hold each brush under warm water then work bristles into the cleaning product until the brush is free of all make-up. Rinse and shape the brush so the hairs are not splayed, dry on the edge of a work surface so the air can circulate the brush head.

Sponges and puffs can be cleaned in the same way. Regularly clean make-up bags with a household cleaner and sponge or if suitable place in a washing machine. Foundation, concealer, cream blush and lip brushes should be cleaned after every use. Make-up will “go off” on brushes over night. For speed, invest in a brush cleanser which you can use daily. Pour onto a paper towel and gently wipe your make-up brush through until clean. I recommend MAC Brush Cleanser £8.00.

Never share cosmetics or brushes this transmits bacteria and can cause infections. Keep cosmetics in a dry area away from direct sunlight/heat as this will breed bacteria and lessen the products shelf life. If you want to help products last longer a great tip is to keep any cream/liquid cosmetics in a refrigerator. See the published shelf life printed onto the back of all beauty products. The product will show a small symbol of an open jar with a number i.e. ‘12M’ showing how many months until the product expires. Use common sense if something doesn’t look or smell right throw it away.

Below is a general guide to the shelf life of products:
Mascara 3-6 months: Mascara has the shortest shelf life as bacteria live in our lashes so the moment the mascara wand touches the lashes, bacteria is transferred to the product tube or to the other eye. Bacteria thrive in dark warm environments, within six months a mascara tube will be over run with bacteria.

Concealer: 6-12 months.
Gel/liquid liners: 12-18 months.
Foundation: Up to 12 months for water based/oil free as these tend to dry out quicker and up to 18 months for oil/silicone based.

Creams: (blushers/highlighters/shadows) 12-18 months

Lipsticks and glosses: 1-2 years

Powders: (blusher/bronzer/face powder) 2 years

Eye shadows: Up to 3 years

Eye and lip pencils: Up to 3 years

2010-02-13T09:28:00.000-08:00

Beauty tips Spring / summer 2010

Spring clean your make-up bag! It is time to chuck out the foundation, ditch the powder blusher and bury the black eyeliner.

Fashion Update:

The new spring/summer looks include:

-Red intense lips
-A fresh illuminated face
-Delicate pastel eyes
-Bold bright colours

A word on colour:

Be inspired by strong spring colours….think bluebells, buttercups and roses….Pastel colours are back, choose from a wide array of lilacs, lavenders, soft pinks and peaches. However, the hottest colour for spring/summer 2010 is Turquoise. A colour that most people respond to positively. It is universally flattering, has appeal for men and women, and translates easily to fashion. Other spring/summer colours include eighties inspired bright candy pinks and oranges.

Nails:

If you are drawn to a colour but don’t feel confident wearing it on your face, wear it on your nails instead! Choose from bright pinks, corals, blues, greens, lavenders or softer pastel shades.

I recommend applying O.P.I Start to Finish Base and Topcoat for outstanding shine and longwearing colour.

Splurge:Chanel Le Vernis: 507 tendresse /orange fizz (peachy shades, £16).

Steal: Essie have great spring shades including tart deco, neo whimsical, mint candy apple and lilacism (£9.00).

Highly recommended: Barry M (In Style Beauty awards winner of ‘Best inexpensive Nail polish Range 2009’). Choose from mint green, fuchsia, pink flamingo, and acid yellow (£2.95)

Cheeks:

Keep cheeks fresh and youthful by opting for shades of coral. If you like defined cheekbones you can use a little bronzing powder under the cheekbone to sculpt. Apply blusher to the apples of the cheeks. Use fingertips to blend, pat the colour gently, never rub! Choose cream or liquid blusher to achieve a natural summer glow. I recommend Daniel Sandler water colour blusher £11.00 Lover (bright pink) and spicey (peach). Available at Harrods Urban Retreat. I love
Bobbi Brown Pot rouge for lips and cheeks (Winner of the Instyle beauty award for ‘Best cream Blusher 2010’) Shade: Cabo coral £16.50 Cabana corals Collection achieves a great peachy fresh glow. For a shimmering “wow factor” dust a little Bobbi Brown Nectar shimmer brick onto face and décolletage (£29) to complete your look.

Lips:

For a bright pout go for a matte red. I like MAC Ruby Woo Lipstick £12.50. Apply a similar shade of lip pencil to create a perfect lip. It is easier to draw with a lip pencil if you brush a little concealer over the edges of the lips beforehand to define the lips.
For a natural lip, try new Givenchy Printed Lips in shade ‘Pink Impression’. This felt tip pen creates perfectly drawn lips that are hydrated and tinted with healthy radiance (Limited edition £16). I also recommend Bobbi brown’s new eye and lip palette (£48), this set contains a set of modern wearable fresh coral shades.

Base:

The spring/summer look is all about keeping skin looking natural, glowy and radiantly sun kissed. Skin should look illuminated. I recommend using Laura Mercier tinted Bronzing gel or a tinted moisturizer. Next apply a little concealer with a synthetic hair brush where you need a little extra coverage. Always apply concealer after using a tinted moisturizer as you want to be very precise for a flawless finish. Go very lightly on the powder. I like to use a little MAC Mineralise skinfinish natural pressed powder available in 8 shades £18.Keep make-up ultra fresh by using Evian mist (available at Boots) this will fix make-up in place and achieve a dewy finish. Compliment this look with great eyelashes achieved using metal eyelash curlers. Hold curlers in place for about twenty seconds, I like to pulse them a little as well by simply gently releasing every few seconds. Find a mascara that suits your lashes and apply two or three coats. I adore the new Givenchy Phenomen Eyes Mascara which has an innovative new design (spherical brush) which reaches everywhere to achieve spectacular results (£23). For those on a budget try a similar Loreal telescopic Explosion Mascara (£9.99).

Eyes:

Always apply an eye base/primer to the eyelids before eye shadow to keep eye make-up fresh and crease resistant all day long. My firm favourite is MAC Eye paint in Untitled.

I like to think there are no rules with make-up but having said that if you have green eyes generally lilacs and pinks look great, blue eyes usually suit corals and bronzes and brown eyes look good in most colours, particularly green.

For a natural look sweep a pastel shade over the lid blending into the eye socket. Team with a fresh pink or soft coral on the lips and cheeks for a pretty day look. I like Daniel Sandler Eye shadow 5A15 (pastel turquoise) £10. If you love the new bright colours at the moment apply the colour over the lid and blend well in to the eye socket. Brush a slightly lighter shade over the edges of the brighter colour to achieve a well blended professional finish. I love MAC Eye shadow Aquadisiac (£11.00). Barry M Dazzle dust in teal and yellow (£4.50) are also great bargain buys. If you are worried about wearing a bright shadow try using a bright colour as an eye liner along the lash line to get a hint of the shade. Choose either a gel or pencil or opt for eye shadow applied with an angled brush (I like Mac #266 brush). If you have time apply a wash of a lighter colour on the lid. For example a bright turquoise liner works well with a softer version of the same shade on the lid blended well into the socket.

In need of a little extra help then why not book a personal/group make-up lesson with me and save 20% when you mention my blog!

Niki Stannett Freelance Make-up Artist
www.nikimakeup.com

INSPIRE:Behind the scenes at a photoshoot...

2009-12-16T07:36:00.000-08:00

December 2009:

My Kit open and ready for action!

Model Hannah @Premier

The first Look.

The second Look

Look three Rockchick!

Next up an American concept.

Model Shea @ Premier

Shea working the look!

INSPIRE:FACE CHART ART

2009-12-03T06:53:00.000-08:00

I was rooting around in the loft the other day looking for christmas decorations when I found some of my old face charts that I had done in my days as a Resident trainer for MAC cosmetics. I thought I would post them as you may find them interesting...

IN THE NEWS:THE INTERVIEW!

2009-10-27T07:54:00.000-07:00

WHAT INSPIRES YOU?
There are too many things to mention them all!I am definitely inspired by other artists works and creations as well as all the creatives I meet and work with.

WHO IS YOUR FAVOURITE ARTIST?
Henri Matisse is my favourite artist. I especially like work from his fauvist period and the intensity of colour and line that he uses in his paintings.

HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR MAKE-UP STYLE?
Flawless, natural and soft make-up,yet smokey, sultry and sexy to create the wow factor!

DO YOU HAVE A BEAUTY ICON?
My beautiful mother of course, many years have been spent watching her beautifying!She is both beautiful on the inside and out and continues to astound me...

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE MAKE-UP TECHNIQUE?
I love to use MAC eyepaint as an eyebase before eyeshadow, buffing a small amount across the entire eyelid. Using an eyebase is so important to achieve long lasting true colour eyeshadow by evening out the skintone on the lid and providing a perfectly primed blank surface to add colour.

WHAT ARE YOUR BEAUTY NO-NO'S?
-Sharing make-up argh! just no!
-Botox and surgery for the sake of beauty- definitely not!
-Bad beauty hygiene that includes sleeping with make-up on, and keeping dirty, old products and cosmetic purses.

WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR BEST MAKE-UP MOMENT?
Assisting Val Garland at the 'Armani One Night Only' show was a memorable experience, especially meeting Mr.Armani himself!

WHAT IS YOUR EARLIEST MAKE-UP MEMORY?
Playing dress up at about age four!I remember something involving a plastic toy telephone(present from my auntie), high-heels and lots of blue eye shadow!

DO YOU HAVE A GENERAL BEAUTY BELIEF?
Believe it or not we can all benefit from a few light touches of make-up!

ANY TOP TIPS?
-Invest in a good set of make-up brushes. They do a lot of the hard work for you and as long as you keep them clean, and look after them they will last you forever.
-Look after your hands, moisturise them daily as they will show your age in the future.
-Always use an eye base for flawless eyeshadow and a perfect skintone.
-A dab of highlighter at the inner and outer corner of the eyes really wakes the eyes up! If you are feeling tired, its a great one for brightening the eye.

INSPIRE:ROBERT LONGO

2009-10-20T09:36:00.000-07:00

I recently was in Nice, France on holiday and I was fortunate enough to visit the Musee d'Art moderne et d'Art contemporain. Luckily for us they had an amazing exhibitition from the Artist Robert Longo whose work I had not followed until now. The exhibition runs from June 27-November 29 2009 if you do get a chance to visit you will not be disappointed.

Robert Longo was born in Brooklyn, New York in 1953, he still lives and works in New York to this day. His wife is the German actress Barbara Sukowa whom he married in 1994. Longo had a childhood fascination with mass media which is a great influence in his work. Most of his works are done with charcoal and graphite, interestingly, and drawing remains his favourite form of self-expression. His many works are both diverse and important. Installations, photographs, sculptures, drawings as well as his music, video and film have all had a huge impact. He is well-versed in history and cultural categories. His drawings, sculptures and films provide an essential contribution to what one can call "the historical paintings of our time". He became famous in the 1980's for his "Men in the Cities" scenes, which showed sharply dressed businessmen writhing in contorted emotion.
He has had major retrospective exhibitions at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art in 1989, the Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago in 1990 and a touring exhibition throughout Japan in 1995. The 1989 catalogue referred to Longo "As one of the most provocative artists in the US". During the 1980's he also directed several music videos including New Order's "Bizarre love triangle" and "The One I Love" by R.E.M. He also directed the cyberpunk movie Johnny Mnemonic, starring Keanu Reeves.

He always wears black. Anyone who enters his light-filled, loft-style workspace in Manhattan can see that wearing black is more to do with his art than anything else. The air is thick with dust from the pieces of charcoal, graphite and black crayons he uses and it settles on absolutely everything. It is no wonder he now presents his works behind glass as soon as it leaves his studio headed for exhibitions and collections.

A truely inspiring artist! His attention to detail is phenomenal, his drawings have an almost photographic quality. Its near unbelieveable to conceive his great works are created out of simple charcoal and graphite.

Robert Longo is certainly one of my favourite contemporary artists.

See a video of Longo on tube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UgXr9TfuXow

Past and present: Serge Lutens

2009-10-16T06:37:00.000-07:00

First up in niki's new make-up vault is Serge Lutens.

Serge Lutens was born in 1942 in Lille, France. At the age of fourteen he was taken on as an apprentice in a hair salon in Lille. Here, as well as being a hairdresser he experimented with photography and make-up using his friends to pose as models. In 1962 at the young age of just twenty he moved to Paris and began working with the prestigious French Vogue. He was hired to create make-up, hair and jewellery. During the 1960's he went on to collaborate with great photographers including Richard Avedon, Bob Richardson, Helmut Newton and Irving Penn and of course, he partied hard with the Paris smart-set.

In 1967 Christian Dior commissioned him to create a line of cosmetics. Christian Dior make-up was soon breaking new ground with such bold colours and Lutens quickly became very well-respected. In 1968, Lutens was holidaying in the south of France taking a well-earned break from creating his make-up line for Christian Dior. He took a sailing boat to Morocco, he followed his nose to Marrakesh falling in love with the smell of the souk. At the tender age of 26 he told himself it would be magnificent to re-create this fragrant scent, and so, a perfumer was born.

Lutens went on to be a well regarded photographer and film maker. His 1973 series of photographs inspired by artists Claude Monet, Georges-Pierre Seurat, Pablo Picasso and Amedo Modigliani was shown at The Guggenheim Museum, New York. During the mid-seventies he directed two short art films 'Les stars'(1974) and 'Suaire'(1976), both of these were shown at the Cannes film festival. To many people Lutens is most well known for his advertising work with the cosmetics brand Shiseido. The brand hired Lutens in 1980 as Creative and Art director to develop their range. During the 1980's he shot various advertising campaigns and films and designed make-up and packaging. He persuaded Shiseido to let him produce perfumes and he hasn't looked back since. His business is still owned by shiseido today. He masterminded some of shiseido's most iconic scents including 'Nombre Noir' in 1982.

In 1992 Lutens conceived and designed 'Les salons de Palais Royal', a house of perfume. During the nineties he launched a range of scents including cult classic Ambre Sultan. In 2000 he launched his own brand 'Parfums Beaute Serge Lutens' sold exclusively in prestigious locations around the world. For consecutive years between 2001 and 2004 he was awarded the 'Fifi award' for best original concept. Most recently in 2008 he launched his own relatively small cosmetics line 'Neccessaire de Beaute Serge Lutens', this was created with shiseido. Products come in chic black, laquered packaging with an expensive price tag sold exclusively at Harvey Nichols, London and Barney's, New York.

Today Lutens,67, resides in Marrakesh, Morocco.

Unlocking niki's make-up vault...

2009-10-16T05:35:00.000-07:00

A-ha! At last, I have joined the virtual world of blogging. I am now an official blogger! A massive welcome to niki's new make-up vault blog. I aim to unlock and unleash to the blogging world my personal make-up related experiences, knowledge and expertise. To make this straight forward for the reader every time I add a blog to the make-up vault it will be under one of the following three headings.
Inspired (My inspirations!)
Past & present (Make-up artists and period make-up)
In the news (Product buzz, Events and updates on my personal work)
If you like the sound of that follow my blog and keep updated with what is going on in the hidden depths of niki's make-up vault.

A little introduction first...
My name is Niki, I am a make-up artist. I studied a degree in make-up and hair at The London college of Fashion. Since graduating I have worked as a make-up artist at numerous fashion shows,shoots and events including both London and Milan fashion weeks. I have worked for brands including MAC, Laura Mercier and Daniel Sandler which has given me some fabulous opportunities taking part in some of the greatest fashion shows of all time including Fashion Rocks . I have previously worked as a MAC resident trainer where I was often known as a walking and talking product knowledge manual! Sad, but true, hence part of the reason why I was training I guess. I had some unforgettable experiences there including a very memorable training seminar in L.A no less, with an interesting trip to the Playboy mansion...
In most recent years I have been working as a hair and make-up artist for magazines doing a mixed bag of fashion and beauty make-up as well as make overs. I also specialise in bridal make-up and enjoy making my clients feel calm and relaxed on the most special day of their lives. Who knows where my future as a make-up artist will lead next but one thing I do know is the life of a make-up artist is never dull!