Professional makeup artist Jemma Kidd knows makeup inside and out, and this beauty guru was gracious enough to share her fall makeup tips with LoveToKnow in this special interview.
About Jemma Kidd
LoveToKnow (LTK): Jemma, tell us a little bit about what inspired you to become a makeup artist?
Jemma Kidd (JK): I grew up around modeling because of my little sister, Jodie. I had always been creative and found myself watching the makeup artists behind the scenes wanting to know all of their secrets. I felt at home backstage - the vibe, the buzz, the people - I just loved it.
Jemma Kidd Cosmetics
Product Lines
LTK: You have an impressive lineup of beauty products that includes a full line of makeup for modern women, a professional collection for makeup artists, and your affordable JK collection available at Target. Tell us what prompted you to design these collections?JK: Jemma Kidd Make Up School is an edited collection of core make-up essentials. I wanted to create a range that was non-intimidating, featuring wearable colours and multi-purpose, handbag-friendly products. Millions of women throughout the world wear make-up, but very few have been taught how to apply it, so I wanted to take the mystery out of make-up by creating step-by-step instructions to accompany each product.
Jemma Kidd PRO was inspired by my amazing Jemma Kidd Professional Team and was designed by artists, for artists. The focus here was to create a range of backstage essentials; the products combine colour with the very latest in skincare science, innovation, actives and complexes. In a nutshell, it's 'smart' make-up.
With diffusion line JK Jemma Kidd for Target, I wanted to create a modern make-up line that expresses my love of fashion. The idea was to create a collection that fuses hi-fashion, statement colour with professional performance products, bringing the 'catwalk to the curb' without breaking the bank. This collection makes on-trend beauty accessible to all women.
Makeup Classes
LTK: You offer makeup classes for both professional makeup artists and non-professionals. Tell us what someone can expect from one of your non-professional classes?JK: Many women come to the Academy loving makeup but stuck in a rut, as they can't apply it. Our non-professional courses provide an opportunity to learn new techniques and build confidence through easy, step-by-step lessons. Class sizes are kept small to ensure you get lots of personal attention and encouragement from one of our expert tutors. It's a really fun day out!
Fall Makeup Tips
Go for Texture
LTK: Women sometimes struggle with their makeup for the fall season, as their tans fade and the skin becomes drier. What suggestions do you have for women in choosing makeup colors for fall?JK: I think the most important thing for Autumn is texture rather than colour - look for moisturizing, crème based formulas and avoid using too much powder, which can be drying.
Less is More
LTK: While fall makeup colors are sometimes darker and richer, women may make the mistake of going too dark when it comes to cheek, lip, or eye color. How can they avoid this makeup mistake?JK: Less is more. It's always easier to add slightly more of something than to remove it. Apply blush a little at a time rather than overloading your brush with blusher and ending up having to start all over again. Also, makeup is all about creating balance. If you're worried about overdoing it, focus on one element of the face - for example pair dark, dramatic eyes with nude lips.
Wear Softened Runway Looks
LTK: What makeup trends do you anticipate becoming big for fall? Any tips on translating fall runway looks for every day women?JK: Red lips were seen on lots of the Autumn/Winter catwalks - my Jemma Kidd Make Up School Rosy Glow Lip & Cheek Tint is perfect for those who want just a wash of red on their lips rather than a full-on red pout. The smoky eye will make a big comeback this season, too. For everyday wear interpret the trend with soft browns, which are more flattering than black on most skin tones.
