A Brownlow behind-the-scenes with Rebeccah Vivian
Rebeccah Vivian of Blondie Hair and Cosmetica is no stranger when it comes to readying stars for major events – and this is just one of the reasons she is so in-demand for brides-to-be on their big day.
To get an idea of what goes into her role and what it takes to get red carpet-ready, we went behind the scenes with the beauty extraordinaire as she worked on fabulous fashion stylist Renee Enright for football’s night of nights – the 2015 Brownlow Medal.
Renee wears a stunning beaded number by Newtown business Pearls and Roses Bridal, with jewels by ANTON Jewellery and is captured here by Stefani Driscoll Photography.
Q&A WITH REBECCAH VIVIAN
What is your favourite ‘red carpet look’ when it comes to hair and makeup?
When it comes to a makeup look, I love a bright lip – depending on the outfit of course.
For hair, I really adore finger-waves and polished hair because I love hair down. I feel that hair up can at times be too severe – though of course some can absolutely get away with the look, a-la Kim Kardashian.
What are your top tips for long lasting makeup?
It’s really all in the preparation. You have to make sure skin is clean and primed and of course you can use some make-up setting sprays. It is definitely all in the layering. I always conceal first, then put foundation on, conceal again, contour and then lightly powder. As long as you have layered your makeup and it’s buffed in really well it will generally last all night.
You’re no stranger to a red carpet, who are some of your favourite stars to have worked with?
Working at Channel Ten, I worked on a lot of A and B list celebrities, though my favourite would have to be Carrie Bickmore. She is so lovely, down to earth and absolutely gorgeous. After everything she has been through I really think she is such an amazing woman and I love working with her.
Who would be your ultimate client?
Khloe Kardashian – she’s my favourite, I’d love to do her hair and makeup
Best beauty buy?
It would have to be NARS bronzer in Laguna, and also a niacinamide serum from Geelong business, The Skincare Company – it’s great for underneath moisturiser.
In saying that, I still think it’s really important to eat well and drink lots of water so your skin looks beautiful from the inside out. You can use all the products in the world, but if your skin doesn’t look healthy and glowy then it’s difficult to fake.
How important is wearing the right make-up when it comes to red carpet or wedding photography?
Very. Foundation is the one thing that so many people go wrong with – whether it be too light or too dark, with their face not matching their body.
Many people will also see something in a photograph, on social media or in a magazine and it won’t necessarily translate well, so I think it’s really important to choose something that suits the person, not just a look they love.
What’s is your advice for those brides that don’t have much experience in hair and make-up and are looking for inspiration?
Try and choose photos and inspiration by sticking to people that you look like or have similar features to – whether it be the same eye colour, face shape or hair tones. That way if you see an image of someone with a look similar to you, you know that it’s more likely to work. I also advise that you try and work to your natural look and not be too overdone. My motto is that I always try to make people look like a better version of themselves, rather than looking like someone completely different.
How important is a hair and make-up trial?
Extremely important – on the day, brides are generally fine and tend to be really calm. It’s in the lead up that they have a lot of time to think (or over-think) and critique. My recommendation would be to really research and again look at something that is flattering to them and their skin tones and face shape. If they’re choosing something that is a completely different look to them, I don’t think it translates well on their wedding day. Brides need to realistic with their expectations – I always like to do makeup trials because you don’t want to turn up on the day and the bride to end up disappointed. It’s important to test looks out prior to the wedding.
What are some trends you’re looking forward to seeing over the coming wedding and awards season?
I feel like the boho look is still really in, with braids still being a really popular choice for bridesmaids. My style tends to lend nicely to soft and natural and I try to avoid looks that are too severe. I like to keep it organic and flowy as this is a look that tends to suit a lot of people.
What’s the one piece of beauty advice you can offer a bride-to-be?
A lot of brides get stressed out and exercise so much in the lead up the wedding their skin ends up being dehydrated. You have to drink copious amounts of water, and combine this with green juices to get a healthy look. Be healthy on the inside for a radiant glow on the outside. And again, choose looks that accentuate your beauty and don’t try to be someone else.
Find out more about Rebeccah and her talented Blondie team here.
