Our very own makeup artist Sharon Farrell knows that date night preparation can be more fuss than fun. “One of the things I’ve seen over and over during my years as a make-up artist is the stress women go through getting ready for a date” Sharon says. The makeup artist hopes that her collaboration with Bellabox will take the guesswork and stress out of date night prep. Filled with speedy essentials that give maximum impact for minimum effort, the collection keeps simplicity in mind. Removing the fuss so women can “look their best, regardless of if they’re heading out for a first date, a date with friends, or a night out with their long term partner.” Sharon talked us through the collection, and shared some of her pro-tips that will make getting ready stress a thing of the past.
Skin Prep:
Exfoliate in the shower before using the Jergens Natural Glow + Firming Daily Moisturiser . Sharon adds,”be sure to wash your hands afterwards to avoid tanned palms!”
Sharon also recommends keeping Blaq Hyaluronic Acid Eye Masks in the fridge for additional de-puffing power. “They feel especially good on tired eyes”. Then take a minute before makeup to massage in the Lancome Advanced Genefique Serum. The massage “will stimulate blood flow and get the skin looking extra plump and fresh”. Then maximise that glow with Mac Cosmetics Strobe Cream. Apply the cult cream all over as a glowy-primer, or strategically to the high points of the face. Farrell adds, “It looks amazing on the body too – who doesn’t want shiny collarbones?”
Complexion Heaven:
Sharon also suggests using a synthetic brush for seamless application of base products. She favours the Real Techniques Mini Expert Face Brush – “I use mine for everything from primer to cream blush.”
Sharon suggests using your lipstick as a cheek product. The Eye of Horus Bio Lipstick in Vesta Red is a classic, universal shade that makes a beautiful rosy blush. Dab a little on the cheeks and blend out with the Real Techniques brush, the creamy texture will make for a natural, lit from within glow. If you feel like adding a gloss to the lip, add a touch of Clarins Lip Comfort Oil to keep your pout hydrated. Finish the look with a dusting of Manna Kadar Paradise Blush (the lip product beneath will act as a natural stain and add dimension) and a spritz of Jurlique Rosewater Balancing Mist.
Sultry Eyes:
With a red lip you can keep eyes as minimal as you like, or go all out for a truly vampy look. If you prefer to keep things minimal a simple swipe of Clinique High Impact Mascara will suffice. Sharon suggests wriggling the wand as close to the lash-line as possible, so maximum product is deposited at the base. If you want to add some drama the Ardell Faux Mink Whispies give natural looking length. If you struggle with lash application simply cut them in half and apply them in sections. Then line your inner waterline (top and bottom) with the Eye of Horus Smokey Black Goddess Pencil – smudge with the attached sponge what Farrell calls “a 10 second smokey eye that will not budge day or night.”
Finishing touches:
Once your base is covered, use the Aveda air control Hairspray to smooth fly-aways. Spray from 15cm away for hold that “wont feel sticky or crunchy.” Finally, add a dab of Acqua di Parma Nobile, a flora to your pulse points. The woody, floral scent will linger on the skin no matter how late your date night goes.
The Date Night Limited Edition Bellabox is available outside of subscription services for $59.95 (total product value is $230), for a date night kit that wont break the bank click here. It includes our fave brand Jurlique.
