Renowned makeup artist Mary Phillips shares her expertise on achieving a matte complexion without sacrificing vibrancy. Through her Instagram platform, she reveals techniques that maintain skin's natural glow while reducing shine. Her method involves strategically applying different powders to specific areas, ensuring dimensionality remains intact.
Phillips emphasizes the importance of balance in makeup application, offering insights into how each powder contributes uniquely to the overall look. Her approach not only caters to professional needs but also provides valuable tips for everyday users seeking flawless skin.
Strategic Powder Application Techniques
Mary Phillips unveils an innovative technique for creating a matte finish while preserving the skin's vitality. By targeting specific facial zones with varying types of powder, she demonstrates how to control oiliness without flattening the complexion. This method focuses on enhancing natural features rather than concealing them entirely.
In her tutorial, Phillips starts by using a light pink loose powder beneath the eyes, which subtly brightens the area and minimizes under-eye shine. She then transitions to a translucent powder applied sparingly on the forehead, between the eyebrows, and around the mouth and nose—areas prone to excess oil. Finally, she employs a skin-tone powder across the remaining face, emphasizing lightness to avoid overloading the base. Each step is carefully executed to ensure no single area dominates or diminishes the others’ radiance.
Achieving Balance in Makeup
Beyond mere product application, Phillips highlights the significance of achieving equilibrium in makeup routines. Her philosophy revolves around enhancing individual beauty traits through thoughtful layering and minimalism. This approach resonates deeply with her followers who seek both elegance and simplicity in their daily looks.
Phillips stresses her preference for restrained powder usage, advocating for setting the foundation lightly to preserve the skin's natural texture. For those aiming to replicate her style, she recommends starting with the delicate areas like under the eyes before moving onto more central regions such as the T-zone. The key lies in understanding one’s unique facial structure and adjusting powder quantities accordingly. Ultimately, her guidance empowers individuals to embrace their inherent beauty while refining it with expert-level precision.
A remarkable event took place over the weekend, proving that style and generosity can go hand in hand. The Vogue Vintage Sale, hosted by Jorja Smith and Iris Law in collaboration with eBay, transformed Greek Street into a hub of fashion enthusiasts eager to uncover rare gems. This exclusive pop-up shop featured an array of iconic pieces spanning decades of fashion history, all curated under the discerning eye of British Vogue editors. From coveted designer collaborations to timeless classics, every item was not only a testament to fashion’s evolution but also contributed to a meaningful cause, Smart Works.
Among the standout treasures available were unique items such as the Louis Vuitton X Takashi Murakami bags, Prada's iconic Flame heels, and Maison Margiela's Tabis. Shoppers had the opportunity to acquire one-of-a-kind pieces like Bella Ramsey's Burberry ensemble from the British Vogue cover and a memorable Gucci leather jacket reminiscent of Victoria Beckham's era-defining look. The sale attracted an eclectic mix of personalities, including stylist Harry Lambert, actor India Amarteifio, models Alva Claire and Cora Corré, and author Yomi Adegoke, who were seen exploring the racks and capturing memories in the photo booth.
The success of this event highlights the power of community spirit intertwined with fashion. It demonstrates how the love for vintage clothing can bring people together while supporting important initiatives. Such occasions remind us that our passion for style can extend beyond personal gratification to make a positive impact on society, fostering both creativity and compassion.
On March 31, the transgender community in the UK commemorated Transgender Day of Visibility under a Labour government for the first time in fifteen years. Historically, this political party has been pivotal in advancing LGBTQ+ rights, such as partially decriminalizing homosexuality and enabling same-sex marriage. Expectations were high that Labour's victory last July would bring significant improvements to trans rights, encompassing healthcare access, housing security, public facilities, and inclusion in educational and professional environments. However, since gaining power in 2024, Labour has withdrawn its previous support for the trans community.
In the past eight months, the government has upheld Conservative restrictions on puberty blockers for transgender youth, retreated from commitments to reform the Gender Recognition Act, agreed with banning classroom discussions about transgender issues, and supported the recommendations of the controversial Cass Review. These actions have not only affected the transgender population but also other marginalized groups such as disabled individuals, refugees, and single parents.
Despite these setbacks, grassroots movements across the UK are actively working outside governmental frameworks to support the transgender community. Self-funded collectives provide essential daily assistance, including grocery deliveries, transportation to medical appointments, and aid for those facing homelessness or mental health challenges.
Beyond Westminster, these initiatives offer a crucial alternative to state reliance, fostering nurturing environments for transgender individuals. Their efforts underscore the importance of community-driven action when official policies fall short of protecting fundamental human rights.
As we reflect on the current landscape, it is clear that while the Labour government has faltered in its commitment to transgender rights, there remains a vibrant network of organizations dedicated to making a difference. This activism serves as a beacon of hope, illustrating the resilience and solidarity within the transgender community and their allies.