Craig Barritt/Getty Images for Brandon MaxwellBrandon Maxwell fall 2016 was a far cry from the over-the-top costumes the designer has created for best client and BFF Lady Gaga. Instead, it was a collection of elegant gowns, clean, crisp lines and a black and white palette. The makeup, too, was surprisingly subtle—but, of course, not without an edge.
While the girl who inspired this look is said to be beautiful, fun and inherently chic (a disheveled Audrey Hepburn, if you will), she's not without her flaws.
"I want the girl to look real—I don't want the girl to look like she's coming from a makeup session," said renowned makeup artist Tom Pecheux, on behalf of MAC. "So the makeup is a little bit damaged."
The technique behind this look is almost too simple. The pro used a heavy hand of mascara to line the eyes.
Are you this "dream" girl Tom speaks of? You can be—with the following steps.
The Skin: The base was created with a liquid foundation and concealer where needed. A dusting of translucent powder was applied under the eyes to prevent any fallout. Makeup artists then created a slight contour with a powder foundation just one shade darker than the skin.
The Brows: In line with French beauty, brows were groomed and filled in naturally.
The Eyes: Using MAC Haute & Naughty Lash mascara and an eyeliner or brow brush, apply a thick and messy line to the top of the eyes. "Mascara is sticky," noted Tom. "It creates a stable imperfection—and that's what we're looking for." Then, use a dark eyeliner for the bottom.
The Lips: A neutral pink lipstick will finish the look off.
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