Building Your Kit Part 22: Red Carpet Beauty Secrets 

The red carpet dates all the way back to ancient Greece—it was mentioned in Aeschylus’ classic play Agamemnon—when it marked the route for dignitaries and rulers at formal occasions. Back then, people worshipped gods and looked to the stars for guidance. These days, we do, too (we as in Hollywood), especially during award season. Now, the red carpet shows us the best and worst of our divine constellation of celebrity deities. And when it comes to makeup, the red carpet remains the place to watch for trends in color and texture. It also offers the chance to check out what all the celebrity glam squads are keeping in their kits. Red carpet looks provide particular insights: namely, what to use when dealing with the demands of an award show (flash photography, HD television cameras, close ups, etc.). And all of that can translate into everyday looks for work, events, or even just intensely busy days. Here are some red carpet–ready products that will give your kit star quality.

Embryolisse Emulsion Hydra-Mat | $40

shop it

This makeup artist and celebrity favorite will give your client flawless, hydrated skin with a shine-free finish, and it will last all day. Use it on its own or under your favorite moisturizer for a low-maintenance skin care option.

Smashbox Camera Ready BB Cream SPF 35 | $39

With sheer cover and sensational finish for a big night or everyday, it’s the ultimate skin-saver. You can wear it under your foundation as a UV-protecting primer to control oil, set makeup, and moisturize. You can even wear it on its own for minimal coverage that evens out skin tone for selfies or paparazzi shots.

Clean & Clear Oil Absorbing Sheets | $5.49

Whether you’re in the spotlight or simply trying to maintain your makeup, these tried-and-true blotting papers come in a package that’s thin enough to fit inside your smallest bag. Pros use them all the time to bring clients back to a just-applied finish with one quick swipe—and without removing or disturbing makeup.

Anastasia Dipbrow Pomade | $18

shop it

Available in a wide range of colors, this waterproof pomade can keep brows in place in the most difficult situations—and achieve both natural and bold glamour looks with the flick of a brush. For the strong and full brow look we’re seeing all over the place this season, Dipbrow is ideal. Try it and feel what it’s like to have all eyes on you.

NARS Eye Paint in Ubangi | $25

A black-blue, transfer-proof pot of color that goes on easily with a brush or your finger. It blends into place and then sets itself, staying put through all-night parties. The deep, dark shade imparts the sensual smokey eye that’s a red-carpet classic with ease.

Ardency Inn Modster Smooth Ride Supercharged Eyeliner | $19

It’s completely waterproof, but creamy enough to glide on effortlessly and give you enough time for blending. Unlike many waterproof liners, Ardency Inn’s is packed with pigment, providing a more flattering, matte finish. The color payoff is second to none and there’s no way this bad boy will budge.

Stila Stay All Day Liquid Lipstick | $22

The supremely pigmented liquid formula outlasts even the most party-oriented person. Add it over a pencil for an on-trend sexy look, or wear it on its own for softer, fuller-looking lips. The product lives up to its “stay all day” moniker, so I suggest using a facial cleanser with a touch of oil to remove any color it leaves behind.

Red Carpet Kolour Body Glow | $49.95

Getting a gorgeous red carpet glow is something everyone wants, but body bronzers and shimmers have traditionally taken a long time to apply and dry, resulting in disappointing streaks and smudges on clothes—and everything else. Celeb makeup artist Joanna Schlip has designed a transfer-proof body bronzer that delivers the shine and shimmer but still sets itself in place until you decide you want to remove the celestial glow.

Read every installment in James Vincent’s Building Your Kit series here! Prices approximate and may vary.

As Director of Artistry for The Makeup Show, The Powder Group and On Makeup Magazine, makeup artist James Vincent has touched every facet of the industry with his talent. With specialties in film and theatre, television and celebrity work, editorial and runway work, James is foremast a passionate educator, training for brands such as MAC, Stila, CNN and Lancome. He continues to inspire the next wave of artists with his beauty expertise. Follow James on Twitter @JVincentmakeup.