LYNN TAYLOR TALKS ‘NORMCORE’

The no make-up look seems to be dominating the catwalks this season, with models accessorising the latest fashions with little more than bare skin, lip balm and a moody glare (or occasional smile)! It might seem hardcore, but in reality it’s normcore. 'Normcore' – the fashion trend that champions geek chic – has been sweeping across the US (perhaps the direct result of women being over-Kardashianed)? Whilst prepping (or normcoring) models at the Marc Jacobs show, make-up creator and guru François Nars exclaimed, “It’s probably the only show in New York where we’re not going to apply any make up! Absolutely no make up whatsoever. Only moisturising lotion and that’s it.”

The no make-up look, in all honesty, is normally achieved with quite a bit of make up, expertly applied and blended. I can personally attest to this having worked with several celebrities on film sets where actresses like to look beautiful, but also natural. Sorry François, but my version of no-make up actually involves some make up and goes like this... I call it 'Haute Natural'

Begin by prepping the skin with Embryolisse {Lait-Crème Concentre} - a fashion week favourite that lends a youthful glow. Follow with Stila's {Stay All Day Foundation, Concealer & Brush Kit} – it's genius, and perfect for distributing foundation on areas where you need it, to disguise imperfections and create a flawless finish (use sparingly for 'your skin, but better' effect).

Kevyn Aucoin's {The Creamy Glow Duo} grants a natural, dewy flush when patted onto apples of the cheeks, and can also be used on the lips to give subtle - but sexy - enhancement.

Use Anastasia's {Brow Wiz} to 'fill in' any eyebrow gaps - or if you're naturally blessed with on-trend bushes, then 'brush up' brow hairs using {Clear Brow Gel}.

A lick of mascara is optional (but I think it makes a massive difference). Kevyn Aucoin's {The Curling Mascara} is excellent. Just 'wiggle' the brush near the roots when applying, to create fullness as opposed to length - we're going 'au naturel' (remember?) and a little extra volume at the roots is ideal for an 'is-she-or-isn't-she' finish.

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