Who doesn't love Queen Latifah? A talented, legendary lyrical powerhouse with movies, music videos, sitcoms and now a talk show, this star is a staple within Tinseltown. With so many events and appearances, just how does the Queen keep her look worthy of royalty? We tapped celebrity makeup artist, Sam Fine, to find out just what goes into making this gorgeous woman into a certified Covergirl. Check out his amazing beauty tips below and click through the slideshow to see each product recommendation.
- Sam, Queen Latifah always looks flawless. What's the secret to her impeccable skin?
For Latifah, I always begin by using COVERGIRL Queen Collection Natural Hue Concealer, ($6) dabbing it directly underneath the eye. (Tip: Always choose a shade lighter than your complexion to highlight the under eye area). Then, I apply COVERGIRL Queen Collection Natural Hue Compact Foundation ($8) to unify varied tones for a flawless complexion.
- Working with such a gorgeous celebrity, what are your favorite features to play up on her face?
Queen Latifah always looks great in a smoky, sexy eye. I recently did this dramatic eye look for when she hosted Mary J. Blige's FFAWN Charity Event. Starting with COVERGIRL Flamed Out Shadow Pot in Melted Carmel ($5), I began by applying the deeper shade over the entire lid as well as underneath the eye, surrounding Latifah's eye in a smoldering brown shadow. Then, I used COVERGIRL Flamed Out Shadow Pot in Melted Gold ($5) on the brow bone directly underneath, extending it towards the temples. For added drama, I used COVERGIRL Queen Collection Vivid Impact Eyeliner ($8) nearest the upper lashline and the inner rim of the eye. And lastly, always complete a smoky eye with a few coats of mascara. I love COVERGIRL Clump Crusher by LashBlast ($7), which provides volume without the clumps.
- When you're a celebrity, there's no room for a single flaw! How do you get a Covergirl ambassador camera ready to face tons of flashbulbs and paparazzi?
For Latifah, I always start with a flawless foundation. COVERGIRL Queen Collection All Day Flawless Foundation ($10) actually combines the essence of a liquid, concealer and powder in one - the result is a natural and lightweight finish that lasts all day. And because I love a glowing, golden complexion, I use a bronzer nearest the hairline and also as a blush - this adds luminosity to her always- golden complexion and looks beautiful as it wears into the night, especially in photos.
- Loving that tip! Is it possible to steal this girl's makeup swag? What could we use to get a similar look?
Absolutely! For the look I just described, use one of my all-time favorite products is COVERGIRL Queen Collection Natural Hue Mineral Bronzer ($8) - it blends flawlessly and also controls shine.
- Any tricks to the makeup application?
There are no shortcuts to a beautiful finish! Invest in quality brushes, sponges and a makeup mirror that allows you to see every detail... and most importantly, take your time!
- What techniques should we avoid?
It's not always about what techniques to avoid; it's about which steps you don't want to skip! Many women forgo using concealer and foundation, both of which lay the foundation for a flawless finish, so, don't skip a step and expect to get Queen-like results!
- Gotcha. What about this look could we change to compliment lighter/darker complexions?
I absolutely love a nude lip on women of color, but finding the right nude lipstick is like searching for the perfect color of nude pantyhose - it changes depending on your shade. For Latifah, I always begin using a brown lip liner to add definition and fullness to the lip. Then, I use a lip brush to apply lip color (I love COVERGIRL Queen Collection LipColor in Cool Khaki $6) to blend liner and lipstick seamlessly. Lastly, I apply a dab of gloss to the center of her mouth to add dimension and shine!
- Any additional tips and tricks?
For the upcoming cold winter months, warm it up! Use a blow dryer to heat up cream foundation a bit - it'll go on easier and keep it from dragging across the skin. Also, use a warm towel on your skin - try popping it in the microwave first; it will open up pores and soothe skin.
Thanks Sam! Great advice!
Look out for more tips from Sam in future stories. What do you think of Queen Latifah's look? Let us know with a note below!
