Achieving Red-Carpet Beauty For Less

Awards Season is once again upon us – that glittering, glistening 8 week period that kicks off with the Critics’ Choice Awards and culminates in the mother of all celeb events – the Oscars. Many miles of red carpet beauty looks are examined, discussed and dissected but the truth is much of it is a recurring no-brainer. Here, Achelle Dunaway, Creative Director and Makeup Artist for the wildly popular “everything’s a dollar” e.l.f. cosmetics sums it up:

Bold, Colorful Lips – Hot pink, coral and dynamite red are ideal colors to sport with a sheer fairer-skinned face and are the equally perfect complement to a stunningly structured white gown – all the rage at the Emmys and SAG Awards. “I can see Kate Hudson, Diane Kruger and Carey Mulligan nailing this look,” says Dunaway.

PRODUCT PICKS: Mineral Lipstick in Cool Coral ($1), Studio Lip Stain in First Date ($3) or Studio Minty Lipgloss in New York City ($3)


Soft Smoky Eyes – “The smoky eye has been replaced with a refreshed, softer look,” says Dunaway. “Pretty plums and radiant browns will bring the right amount of balance for those who will wear their hair in long, Lauren Bacall-inspired styles.” Think Sandra Bullock and Penelope Cruz.

PRODUCT PICKS: e.l.f. Eyeshadow Duo in Berry Mix ($1) or e.l.f. Brightening Eye Shadow in Luxe ($1)

Golden Skin – Nothing screams red-carpet-gorgeous more than a soft, all-over Fergie-esque tan. “The key is keeping it only one or two shades deeper than actual skin-tone,” explains Dunaway. “Anyone wearing a daring, skin revealing dress needs a little warmth.”

PRODUCT PICKS: Mineral Glow ($8)


Peachy Cheeks – Peach tones work perfectly on all ages and skin tones. It’s a subtle look, but enhances cheek-bone structure beautifully. “Peachy tones will work on Anna Kendrick and Meryl Streep alike,” says Dunaway.

PRODUCT PICKS: Studio Blush in Peachy Keen ($3)

Radiant Hollywood Glow – There is nothing a shimmer highlighter can’t do. “All of the leading ladies will have soft shimmer effects enhancing their best facial and body parts.” This is a must-do.

PRODUCT PICKS: Shimmer Palette ($3) or e.l.f. All Over Color Stick ($1).

Soft Updo’s – “Mo’Nique ,Maggie Gyllenhaal, and Gabourey Sidibe can pull off updo’s – from soft chignons to more structured buns,” says Dunaway. “An embellished clip or comb will add the right amount of sparkle.”

Luckily, these beauty looks aren’t just for A-listers. Anyone wanting to test-drive red carpet looks can log onto e.l.f.’s virtual makeover site, Make Yours.e.l.f - an interactive tool that encourages women to experiment with different products using their photo. “From there, they can also try new hairstyles and have the option to purchase the products they love the most,” explains Dunaway.


e.l.f. Cosmetics was created in the belief that every woman should have the opportunity to experience luxury cosmetics without sacrificing her budget.

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