Beyond her stellar on-screen portrayals, as the feisty Maeve in Sex Education and physicist Barbie in Barbie, off-screen Emma has become somewhat of a red-carpet aficionado. Her signature look focuses on dewy, bronzed skin, impeccably groomed brows and a velvety rose pout.
Here, the British-French actress speaks exclusively to marie claire Australia to reveal her pared-back beauty ethos, affinity for fragrance and advice she’d give to her younger self.
Fragrances has always… been a great love of mine. I am fascinated with the power that scent can have, and the way it can immediately transport you to a specific time and place in your life.
My signature scent… is Burberry Goddess [Mackey is the face of the campaign], which radiates warmth and confidence. I like the duality between the lavender and the vanilla notes. I can also smell woody tonalities throughout, which are particularly comforting to me.
Perfumes I’m drawn to… are usually woody and warm, but not in a heady, overpowering sort of way. I’m always looking for comfort … and reassurance.
The distinct smell of bonfires… is a nostalgic one that I find really comforting. It reminds me of camps I used to go on when I was a kid and the fireplace we used to have in the house. My mum’s signature perfume is also a nostalgic scent for me. Sadly, it’s been discontinued.
I don’t like to… use any scented beauty products on my skin, but sometimes a scented hair product can do wonders.
My everyday beauty look… is pretty simple, so spritzing my favourite fragrance is what I rely on to complete it. It’s my one constant and just elevates how I’m feeling.
My spirit animal… the lioness, represent female unity and strength. They are confident and move together as a pack, a team. Much like them, we stand on the shoulders of the women who came before us and those who bolster us throughout our lives. To me, this image is a real source of empowerment.
I’d tell my younger self… to cultivate curiosity as much as possible. Whenever you get the chance to take up a new opportunity, meet new people and try new experiences, you should. If you can see each undertaking as an opportunity to … fill your brain with knowledge, that is a great start. This will help you hone your taste and adapt to all the different situations life throws at you.
I’ve tried to…. push myself [out of my comfort zone] more in recent years, and having seemingly endless possibilities in front of you can be an uplifting, empowering feeling.
Shop Emma Mackey’s Beauty Must-haves
Burberry Beyond Wear Matte Foundation, $92 at David Jones
Burberry Kisses Liquid Matte Lipstick, $56 at David Jones
Burberry Light Glow Blush In Cameo, $72 at David Jones
Burberry Ultimate Lift Mascara, $56 at David Jones
Burberry Goddess EDP, 100ml, $275 at David Jones
