If it takes a small village for us mere mortals to get hair and nails done, for Hollywood stars it takes an entire city to look Oscar-worthy. From stomach-flattening smoothies to crazy facials, actresses spend an insane amount of time—not to mention money—in order to look perfect in front of the cameras during awards season…and no party is more important than the Oscars.
This year’s 85th Academy Awards brings diversity, and the nominees for Best Actress are an example. These five women will be sure to play on their unique beauty, no matter their age or ethnicity. And the good news is that you can actually steal their high-glam looks, without paying for a high-priced celebrity stylist or makeup artist. In fact, think of us as your no-cost celebrity stylist; but please, be sure to thank us in your acceptance speech.
JESSICA CHASTAIN
Jessica rocks an Old-Hollywood vibe, yet she manages to keep it fresh with trendy colors. If you’re a redhead, take notes from Jess: you can sport bright shades without looking over-the-top. Just avoid harsh lines or outdated textures—instead, go for semi-sheer or creamy lipsticks and washes of color.
Copy Her Style
Mix a liquid illuminator with your foundation for that glowy effect. Apply a coppery shadow on lids and black mascara on your lashes. On cheeks, dab a little peach-rose cream blush. Finish off with a cheerful, almost transparent lipstick. Try: Burberry Fresh Glow ($48) • e.l.f. Studio Cream Blush in Heartbreaker ($6) • Lancome Baume in Love Urban Ballet ($26)
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NAOMI WATTS
British actress Naomi Watts has an impeccable style, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t take risks. One of her signature looks consists of neutral colors and muted lips, perfect for busy moms in a rush. The key to this “no-makeup” makeup is keeping your face moisturized—otherwise you risk looking washed-out.
Copy Her Style
Start with a soft veil of color—CC (coverage + correction) creams work well here. Apply a champagne shadow to brighten your eyes and finish with black mascara. Fill in your eyebrows where necessary and go for a peachy blush. A beige-peach lip color will be enough to complete your look. Try: Olay Total Effects CC Cream ($23) • Benefit Cosmetics Fine One One ($30) • Nars Cosmetics Satin Lipstick Blonde Venus ($26)
EMMANUELLE RIVA
Women with mature skin can take a cue from Emmanuelle. After you pass a certain age, it’s better to leave behind powdery textures, glittery shadows or neon lipsticks. Rather, focus on monochromatic hues and creamy formulas that will smooth your complexion.
Copy Her Style
Apply a liquid foundation to cover uneven skin. As you age, you need to color your eyebrows with soft colors—anything dark will be too much for your face. When possible, go for the same shade on eyes, cheeks and lips—think mauve or soft brownish pink. Try: It Cosmetics Brow Power Perfector ($24) • Bobbi Brown Creamy Matte Lip Color in Warm Beige ($24) • Covergirl Eye Enhancer 1-Kit Eyeshadow Tapestry Taupe ($4)
JENNIFER LAWRENCE
J-Law is as chameleonic as can be. One day she can look like the girl next door; the next day she wows audiences with a va-va-voom style. And you can apply these switcheroos in real life—and go from soccer mom to evening diva. Don’t be afraid to experiment with new colors or textures—it’s all about confidence!
Copy Her Style
Get glowing skin with a light to medium coverage foundation. Define eyebrows and opt for a sultry smoky eye using black and grey colors. Shades such as dark brown and gold are also a great combination. Apply two to three layers of black mascara. Finish with a little blush on the apple of your cheeks and a soft baby-pink lipstick. Try: L’Oreal Telescopic Shocking Extensions Black ($9.95) • Dior 3-Couleurs Smoky Black ($48) • Giorgio Armani Lip Maestro in Caffe ($32)
QUVENZHANÉ WALLIS
And then we have the youngest of the group. Quvenzhané may only be 9 years old, but she’s already a star, as her Oscar nomination proves. We debate whether girls should use makeup or not. Although makeup is a matter of choice (Mom’s choice, to be honest), it is important to teach your daughter to take care of her skin from an early age. And now, from sunscreens to glittery body splashes, the market is filled with products aimed at tweens and younger.
Recommendations: geoGirl Body Mist ($4) • Fairy Dust Candy Kisses Shimmer Lotion ($7.20) • 100% Pure Yummy Ice Cream Strawberry 2 In 1 ($15)
