The world of red-carpet fashion and beauty is a captivating spectacle, and the upcoming blockbuster The Odyssey has certainly set the stage for some stunning looks. With the film's Grecian-inspired aesthetic, it's no surprise that the press tour has been a showcase of exquisite style, and Lupita Nyong'o, playing the iconic Helen of Troy, has been at the forefront of this fashion extravaganza.
I'm thrilled to delve into the beauty secrets behind Nyong'o's captivating looks at the London, Paris, and New York premieres, courtesy of her talented makeup artist, Nick Barose. Each city brought a unique twist to the overall theme, and Barose's expertise in skin prep and makeup application is truly remarkable.
Skin Prep: The Foundation of Flawless Beauty
Barose understands the challenges of international press tours, and he emphasizes the importance of skin prep, especially when dealing with jet lag and time zone changes. He begins with a refreshing toner from an Indigenous brand, Kalkay Wild Rose, which not only smells delightful but also awakens the senses, preparing the skin for the upcoming transformation. This is followed by a microcurrent device, the ZIIP Halo, which provides an instant glow and is a favorite among celebrities. The four-minute facial feature is a game-changer, ensuring that the complexion is prepped to perfection without encroaching on the time of other glam squad members.
Exfoliation is the next crucial step, and Barose opts for Lisa Eldridge's luxurious cleansing and exfoliating cloths, which gently polish the skin, removing any dry patches. This meticulous skin prep routine lays the foundation for the stunning makeup looks to come.
London Premiere: Sultry Vamp
For the London premiere, Barose drew inspiration from Hollywood's iconic vamp, Theda Bara, and the legendary Marilyn Monroe. He created a sultry, dark, and vampy look with razor-sharp cheekbones, muted colors, and a focus on defined eyes and lips. The standout products were Lisa Eldridge's Elevated Glow Balm in High Key Light, which added a subtle glow, and the black cherry-hued products for cheeks and lips, creating a seductive and dramatic effect.
What I find particularly intriguing is Barose's attention to detail. He doesn't just apply makeup; he tells a story with each look, drawing from historical references and iconic figures. This level of creativity and artistry is what sets him apart in the industry.
Paris Premiere: Eartha Kitt's Feline Eyes
Moving to the City of Lights, Barose channeled Eartha Kitt's famous Cat Woman eyes for the Paris premiere. Nyong'o's fiery red Chanel dress demanded a bold and dramatic makeup look, and Barose delivered with deep-red lipstick and gold sparkles on the skin. He used Chanel's Les Beiges Water-Fresh Tint and Sublimage L'Essence De Teint Longwear Foundation to achieve the perfect glow, and the berry-toned blush added a subtle flush to the cheeks.
The eye makeup was the star of this look, with Chanel's Le Crayon Yeux and Inimitable Mascara creating full and fluttery lashes. The rich red lipstick, Le Rouge in Rouge Coromandel, was a perfect complement to the dress, adding a touch of glamour without being too matchy-matchy. Barose's use of gold sparkles on the cheeks and body, and even in Nyong'o's hair, added a whimsical and theatrical element to the overall look.
New York City Premiere: Old-Hollywood Glamour
For the New York City premiere, Barose took inspiration from the glamorous femme fatales of the 50s and 60s, creating a look reminiscent of Old-Hollywood screen goddesses. He used T-beauty eyeliners from his native Thailand and Danessa Myricks Colorfix Pigment in Goldmine to add a touch of gold to the inner corners of the eyes, lids, and brow bones. This subtle detail tied in beautifully with Nyong'o's gold gown.
The feathery lashes, with spaces in between, added drama without overwhelming the gold details, and the winged liner and defined crease completed the vintage-inspired look. Barose's choice of products, including the I-ENVY Timeless Wispy False Lashes and Hung Vanngo's Tansculpt Bronzing Contour Balm, showcases his expertise in creating looks that are both timeless and on-trend.
Summer Heat Wave: Makeup Setting Essentials
With the premieres taking place during a summer heat wave, Barose faced the challenge of maintaining the makeup's aesthetic and wear. He shared his go-to products for shine control and makeup setting, which are essential for any makeup artist working in such conditions. Mehron's Touch Up Anti-Shine and Mistine's Matte Setting Spray are his trusted allies, ensuring that the makeup stays in place without looking cakey.
Barose's attention to detail and his ability to adapt to challenging conditions are what make him a standout in the industry. His work on Nyong'o for The Odyssey premieres is a testament to his skill and creativity, and it's no wonder that he is in high demand among celebrities.
In conclusion, the beauty looks for The Odyssey premieres are a testament to the artistry and creativity of Nick Barose. His ability to draw inspiration from various sources and adapt to different themes and conditions is truly remarkable. As we eagerly await the film's release, we can appreciate the artistry behind the scenes, where makeup artists like Barose bring characters to life through their transformative skills.
