Amid emotionally charged acceptance speeches, impeccably dressed attendees and Ellen DeGeneres’ best selfie of all time, the 2014 Academy Awards were nothing if not entertaining. When it came to the red carpet, actresses gravitated toward classic silhouettes and neutral color palettes, a refreshing change from the overtly sexy necklines and heavy makeup of award shows past. Melding the season’s trendiest haircut and a throwback to Bridget Bardot-like makeup, Charlize Theron stood out as one of the most beautiful women of the night. Whether you already rock a pixie, love a dramatically lined eye or simply want to recreate Theron’s look, here are a few simple steps for achieving the best look of Oscar night.
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MAKEUP
1. Theron’s complexion was absolutely flawless. Starting with a great primer like Lancôme La Base Pro, create a pore-free, shine-resistant canvas for your face. Next, use a moisturizer like Mario Badescu Oil Free Moisturizer before applying your foundation and concealer. Your skin will be both hydrated and free of shine long after application.
2. Once you’ve created the base, apply an under-eye concealer a shade lighter than your natural skin tone. For those with dark circles, try Stila’s CC Color Correcting Stick with SPF 20. The green center cancels out any purple pigmentation, while the flesh tone outer layer works like a traditional concealer, canceling out redness and skin imperfections throughout the face. A touch of blush completes Theron’s perfect look, leaving skin red carpet-ready.
3. Theron played up the drama with a heavy liner. Using a liquid liner like Dior’s Diorshow Art Pen, start at the innermost corner of your lid and apply a thick line all the way to the edge of your eye. For your bottom lid, use a white eyeliner pen. Try Sephora Coll ection Nano Ey eliner in Pure White to create depth and contrast from your heavier-lined top lid.
4. A barely there lip put the final touches on Theron. Yves Saint Laurent Gloss Volupte in Rose will give you a beautifully shiny lip with just a touch of color.
HAIR
1. Theron’s hairstyle was of-the-moment, thanks to her sleek pixie cut and a deep side part. If you’re currently donning a pixie or cropped ’do, recreate Theron’s Oscar ready hairstyle with Davines Relaxing Fluid. The product works to fight frizz and is ideal for protecting against the harsh heat of a straightener. The Relaxing Fluid works for both long and short styles, keeping even the longest locks perfectly in place.
2. For the final step, use a fine-toothed comb to create a deep side part. Align part with the center of your brow arch and comb hair into place. Pull hair behind the ear, and there you have it—Theron’s classic Oscar look in just a few short steps.