Another year, another Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show! The runway showcased a total of 47 models and 81 different looks, by a team of 25 makeup artists. The iconic event has always stayed true to the oh-so-sought-after ‘Angel’ look – voluminous wavy hair and glowing, youthful makeup.
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We’ll share some tips and product recommendations, so we mere mortals can achieve the same flawless skin rocked by some our favourite model crushes. Whether you’re on a budget or willing to splurge, we’ve got you covered on the essentials for a youthful glow as seen on the VS runway.
In the immortal words of Napoleon Perdis, “not to prime is a crime” – well-prepped skin acts as a smooth canvas for the rest of your makeup. So, when it comes to achieving a natural and lit-from-within glow, it’s all about the base. A primer with a pearlescent finish such as Loreal Lumi Magique Pure Light Primer 20ml ($29.95 from Priceline) is the perfect first step in achieving that coveted Angel glow. However, if your skin naturally oils up throughout the day, a light hydrating product such as Napoleon Perdis Auto Pilot Pre-Foundation Skin Primer 50ml ($59 from Myer) will prevent that midday T-Zone shine.
If you perform an Internet search for your favourite VS model, you’ll see that their skin looks paradoxically flawless yet natural-looking in appearance. The key is to find a medium to full coverage foundation with light-infusing properties to illuminate the skin. I swear by Nars Sheer Glow Foundation 30ml ($59 from Mecca) when I want to achieve the look of a radiant complexion, with the confidence that it will blur any skin imperfections I want to conceal. However, Loreal Lumi Magique Light Infusing Foundation 30ml ($33.95 from Priceline) is an affordable alternative. Apply using a damp beauty sponge or soft synthetic stippling brush to achieve the best results.
For the perfect sun-kissed complexion, swap the sharp contoured cheeks for a golden radiance with bronzers such as Bourjois Delice de Soleil Bronzing Powder 8g ($30 from Priceline) or Nars Bronzing Powder in Laguna 8g ($49 from Mecca). Gently sweep the product over the face; create a 3-shape starting from the forehead, across the cheekbone and finally, under the jawbone. This technique will provide the most natural results.
Finally we reach the step that is, in my opinion, unequivocally essential when recreating that coveted look that makes you look like you just walked onto the runway after Candice Swanepoel. Highlighter. This step will provide your skin with an extra helping of luminosity that has the power to transform any makeup look. I absolutely adore TheBalm Mary-Lou Manizer 8.5g ($34.95 from David Jones) for an intense champagne glow. Gently sweep the product onto key places you want to highlight – top of the cheekbones (above bronzer), down the bridge of the nose, under and above the browbone and finally, the Cupid’s bow above your lip for full, pouty lips. The Australis Mineral Face Highlighter 15g ($14.95 from Priceline) also achieves similar results. Tip: if you’re fair to medium in skintone, a highlighter that is pink or pearlescent in finish will be most flattering. If you’re tanned to dark skinned, opt for a yellow or golden shimmer.
After all that layering, your skin may need a hydration boost. A finishing spray such as MAC Prep+ Prime Fix+ (formerly Fix+) 100ml ($27 from MAC Cosmetics) or the more affordable Australis Makeup Finishing Spritz 150ml ($14.95 from Priceline), will finish off your look with a dewy finish and prolong the wear time of your makeup.
Images via fabfashionfix.com, cbs.com, priceline.com.au, davidjones.com.au, myer.com.au, mecca.com.au, maccosmetics.com.au
