Maybelline make-up artist Nigel Stanislaus was in overdrive during New York Fashion Week where the affordable brand is a key partner and kicked off its 100th birthday celebrations. He talks about the trends and, in these images, has recreated some of his favourite relatable runway to reality looks for Viva.
What were your favourite shows this season and why?
This season I did 11 shows and I loved them all. The high energy of the opening ceremony and DKNY was electric, the elegance of Rodarte (where I put Swarovski crystals on the models' lower eyelashes) was breathtaking and the Michael Kors and Marc Jacobs shows were nothing short of spectacular.
The nude/no makeup look has been going strong for a while, how is this evolving as seen from the latest runway trends?
Fashion weeks showcase the best faces in the world and it would be a pity if they were camouflaged beyond recognition. Nude makeup is still popular but it isn’t boring; there are always subtle nuances in texture, shade and hue in each show. This look focuses on a dewy base and strategically placed highlights.
Lightly buff foundation on to the skin in circular motions and then press a cream colour base on to the cheekbones and brow lines for a luminous finish. (Stanislaus used Maybelline Fit Me Foundation, $22.99, and Eye Studio Color Tattoo 24HR Eye Shadow in Too Cool, $13.99).
In contrast, we've also seen some strong eye looks emerge, what's the latest here?
There are many new takes on the classic cat-like liner, the most dramatic seen at DKNY, Suno and Cushnie et Ochs recent New York Fashion Week shows. (Paris also played up the eyes, using coloured liners). For an everyday liner look, I draw a thin line outwards from the end of the lash line, parallel to the brow. (Try Maybelline Master Precise Liquid Eyeliner, $19.99).
For the best lash results, wiggle the mascara brush from root to tip, then point the wand vertical and sweep it from side to side to get any stray lashes. (I am obsessed with Volum' Express Pumped Up! Colossal Mascara, $23.99, it has an has an extra-wide brush and a high collagen concentration for big, gutsy lashes).
What about lip looks, what is the coolest colour pop to brighten up winter?
I'm all about bright, vermilion shades with a velvet finish. An intensely pigmented moisturising pencil can be easier to apply than a regular lipstick. (Try Maybelline Color Sensational Color Drama Lip Pencil in Fab Orange, $9.99).
Viva also likes the plum-purple and burgundy shades for lips this season and reckons Stanislaus' updated take on a soft smoky eye using mauve tones is a winner (see cover).
Final words?
Never feel intimidated by makeup — it shouldn’t be too complicated. Simplify and streamline your daily look, but don’t shy away from new colours and styles for occasions.
