The Secrets Behind a Flawless Red Carpet Look

Creating a stunning red carpet appearance is an art, combining expert techniques in both makeup and skincare. Celebrity makeup artist Kelly Cornwell recently showcased her skills while preparing actress Alicia Vikander for the 2026 BAFTAs. Let’s delve into Cornwell’s approach, focusing on practical tips anyone can use to enhance their own beauty routine.

Starting with the Right Base

The foundation of any great look lies in skin prep. Cornwell used the ALLEVEN Total Face Serum as the first step. This intensive serum is designed to hydrate and rejuvenate the skin, providing a smooth canvas for makeup application. To achieve a flawless, luminous finish, aim for a lightweight serum that absorbs quickly and nourishes your skin.

Highlighting Features

After perfecting the complexion, Cornwell added ALLEVEN Instant Glow in Bronze for added radiance. This product highlights key areas of the face, emphasizing your natural bone structure without overwhelming it. When applying highlighters, choose products that seamlessly blend into your skin to achieve a natural glow. Using a fan brush can help you apply just the right amount of product to areas like the cheekbones and brow bones.

Body Care Matters

With Alicia’s dress revealing significant skin, evenness and consistency were crucial. Cornwell prepped Alicia’s body with ALLEVEN Transforming Body Lotion before applying ALLEVEN Colour Shield in Sand. This combination helped to even out skin tone and provide a velvety finish. Consider using multitasking lotions that can hydrate and even skin tone, especially for areas that will be exposed.

Application Techniques

To elevate the look further, Cornwell mixed Instant Glow with Colour Shield and swept the mixture across Alicia’s arms, back, and chest using a large brush. By applying body makeup with a brush rather than your hands, you can achieve a more polished and blended finish. This technique is perfect for ensuring that your skin looks flawless from every angle.

Completing the Look

For the final touch, Cornwell applied Instant Glow to Alicia’s cheeks and the bridge of her nose, creating a cohesive, radiant look. Strategically applying highlighter in these areas will draw attention and add dimension. Remember, blending is key to making product transitions look seamless.

Conclusion

Kelly Cornwell’s techniques reveal that achieving a stunning appearance—whether for a red carpet event or your daily life—relies on the right products and techniques. Start with proper skincare, choose quality makeup, and apply it with care. Embrace these strategies to help you shine at any occasion. Remember, confidence is the best accessory you can wear!