You know that moment when you see a celebrity star on the red carpet and automatically say "WOW!"? Yes.
Me too, whether it's the Oscars, the Met Gala, or even a fashion movie premiere, the looks on display aren't limited to luxurious gowns and sparkling jewelry: the makeup is quite the spectacle!
And the best part? We can (and should!) draw inspiration from these looks to wear in real life.
Today I'm going to share with you the secrets behind the stars' most iconic makeup looks, which trends are worth copying, the tricks celebrity makeup artists use, and how to adapt all of this to your routine, whether for a special event or even to spice up that mirror selfie.
Ready? Let's go!
The red carpet is a trend laboratory
First of all, it's important to understand: the red carpet acts as a thermometer for trends.
Everything there, from Zendaya's graphic eyeliner to Margot Robbie's illuminating skin, influences what we see on social media, in magazines, and even in the products that end up in stores.
And contrary to what many people think, not all celebrity makeup is "difficult" or requires a thousand products.
Beauty is often in the details: a well-chosen lipstick, a highlighter applied just right, or a basic smoky eye that enhances the look.
The Star Muses of the Red Carpet (and Their Stunning Styles)
Let's face it: there are celebrities who have practically become makeup icons.
They arrive at the event, and we rush to save the photo in the "inspiration" folder. Here are a few worth highlighting:
1. Zendaya – The Fashion Chameleon
If there's anyone who knows how to play with different looks, it's her. Zendaya isn't afraid to take risks, and each of her looks is unique.
We've seen everything from fresher star makeup looks with natural skin and earth tones to super-graphic looks with double-lined colors.
The secret? The confidence to pull off the look and a good makeup artist (hello, Sheika Daley!).
Get inspired: Try colored or smoky eyeliners that go beyond basic black.
A royal blue or a burgundy can be anything!
2. Margot Robbie – Modern Classic Beauty
The real-life Barbie always wears elegant makeup, with radiant skin, rosy blush, and lightly lined eyes.
It's the famous "less is more," but executed to perfection.
Get inspired: Invest in a lightweight foundation, opt for a creamy blush (it looks super natural!), and enhance your lashes with a powerful mascara.
3. Rihanna – The Queen of Audacity
Rihanna is bold, powerful, and knows exactly what looks good on her face.
She's already appeared with metallic purple eyeshadow, dark wine lipstick, radiant skin... and she always shows it off!
Not to mention she herself pioneered the concept of illuminated skin with Fenty Beauty.
Get inspired: Don't be afraid to try a dark lipstick or a bolder eyeshadow. And go for it with the highlighter!
4. Lily Collins – Retro Glamor
Defined eyebrows, impeccable cat-eye liner, and a deep red lipstick.
Lily is practically a vintage star muse these days.
Her look is a must-have for those who love makeup that looks like an old-school movie diva.
Get inspired: black eyeliner, red lipstick with a blue undertone, and flawless skin. Instant glam!
The Key Elements of Celebrity Makeup
Now that we've talked about the muses, let's look at the secret (not so secret) ingredients of red carpet makeup.
These are the techniques and products that make the difference:
1. Radiant but controlled skin
Glass skin is no longer exclusive to Koreans! Stars are opting for radiant skin that looks hydrated and healthy without looking greasy.
The secret? Flawless skin preparation: hydration, primer, and a satin-finish foundation.
A strategic highlighter (on the top of the cheekbone, the tip of the nose, the Cupid's bow) completes the look with a radiant touch.
2. Soft contour and natural blush
Forget about the sharp brick-style outline.
The trend is a more diffuse contour, perfectly blended, that highlights the structure of the face.
Blush is back in force, even in more vibrant pink or even orange shades.
Tip: Apply blush slightly higher, almost invading the temple, for a lifting effect.
3. Eyes that stand out without being over the top
Yes, black smoky eyes are still popular, but today sophistication reigns supreme.
You know those eyes with brown, wine, bronze, or even light lilac tones? They're dominating the red carpet.
Another favorite is the cat-eye liner with a pop of color that is both elegant and modern.
4. Lips that Star
Here the dynamic varies: some events are all bright nudes, others are all matte reds.
The important thing is that the finish is perfect.
Makeup artists advise always using lip liner before applying lipstick, as it makes a big difference in the final result and its longevity.
Professional Tricks You Can Use
Okay, but how can we incorporate this celebrity makeup into our daily lives without a makeup artist?
Star makeup artists? Don't worry!
Take advantage of natural light.
The stars apply their makeup under the lighting of the dressing room, which simulates that of the event.
At home, try applying your makeup near a window: natural light gives you a realistic view of what's happening on your face.
Invest in skin preparation.
An expensive star makeup base is useless if your skin isn't hydrated.
Good skin care makes foundation stay on better and last longer.
Makeup setting spray is your best ally.
Celebrities use powerful setting sprays to hold their makeup for hours under the flash and heat.
Use a good setting spray to make your makeup last longer.
A damp sponge is everything.
Whether you're applying foundation, concealer, or even cream blush, a damp sponge makes everything look more natural, with a professional finish.
Red carpet in real life
If you've gotten this far and are thinking, "But if I'm not going to the Oscars, why would I wear that kind of makeup?" my answer is simple: because you deserve it.
Red carpet makeup isn't just about glamour; it's about feeling confident, playing with your own image, and enjoying what the mirror shows you.
Use these for a wedding, a birthday party, a romantic outing... or even for that day when you just want to feel powerful while you're at the grocery store.
Why not?
Final Tip: Create Your Own Inspiration Board
You know what I always do? I create Pinterest boards or save the looks that inspire me the most to Instagram.
It could be Doja Cat's lilac eyeshadow, Gigi Hadid's double-lined eyeliner, or Hailey Bieber's "I woke up beautiful" look.
So, when you're not sure what to do in front of the mirror, inspiration will come right away.
More information – star
Star makeup may seem out of this world, but it's actually an empowering tool available to everyone.
With a little practice, creativity, and the right products, you can bring red carpet glamour straight into your everyday life.
So, the next time you see a celebrity with flawless makeup, don't think, "Oh, that's not for me."
Think: "How can I adapt it to my style?"
Because, after all, the best makeup in the world is the one that makes you feel amazing.