Make-Up Artist Extraordinaire, Kate Hughes

With over two decades experience working with the most fantastic celebrities, actors, presenters, musicians and models, Kate Hughes has thoroughly earned her title as one of the UK’s leading celebrity hair and make-up artists.

We took the opportunity to find out a little bit more about her life as a make-up artist and of course get some all important behind-the-scenes tips.

Did you always want to be a makeup artist?

Yes, from an early age I knew I wanted to be a make-up artist as I have always been fascinated with beauty and the way it can totally transform a person. I feel very lucky to have a career that I am so passionate about.

What’s your favourite makeup trick?

For everyday makeup: This involves something that even the most low-maintenance of women has in her make-up bag: lip balm. Apply a little onto your fingertips, then dab across your cheekbones, eyelids and cupid’s bow. It acts as a kind of impromptu highlighter, giving added luminosity.

For evening makeup: A great trick to create a high impact lip - pat a super bright matte blush in crimson or fuchsia on top of a matte red lipstick to offer more dimension and intensity.

What three products would you be lost without?

Concealer: I always use Benefit's Boi-ing concealer to ensure makeup stays put. It guarantees a fresh and flawless look that lasts all day, softening the appearance of fine lines while helping dark circles and blemishes to disappear.

Eyeshadow: The one eye shadow palette that is a firm staple in my kit is the Full Exposure Palette from Smashbox, the mattes are very wearable and you can really glam it up with the super sparkly shimmer shades. Smashbox shadows are renowned for their great colour combinations.

Bronzer: My favourite bronzer by far is Nars bronzer in Laguna. Sweep on your temples, cheeks and bridge of your nose (where the sun strikes you naturally) for a gorgeous golden glow.

You work with private wedding clients a lot, do you have a favourite wedding look?

My ultimate trend for brides right now is red carpet glamour. This type of radiant make-up reflects a super-luxe lifestyle; a strong but soft smoky eye, including burgundy and soft taupes enhanced with loads of single fake lashes, pink-flushed cheeks and finished with a very pale, matt pink lipstick.

Accessories wise, I love a good piece of bridal jewellery, and there are a few Astley Clarke pieces I currently have my eye on. For all-out opulence match the Large Icon Earrings with the Rising Sun Cuff or the Linia Halo Bracelet for a more subtle diamond hint. For the minimal bride, the Mini Icon Aura Stud Earrings add just the right amount of glamour.

What are your everyday luxuries?

Sisley lip balm is the one beauty luxury that I cannot live without - wear it alone or under your favourite lipstick for added nourishment.

My super cosy Maison Cashmere tracksuit is the ultimate in comfort and gets through the days when I don't want to dress up but, crucially, still want to feel fabulous.

Scented candles are another of my indulgent luxuries and The Cire Trudon Ernesto candle is by far my favourite. I’m not a fan of anything too floral and this one has quite a woody, smoky scent that I absolutely adore.

What's the best piece of advice you have been given?