1/ Statement Lip
A bold lip gives your make-up look the pop you want on race day. Love your matt lipstick but nervous about the maintenance trackside? “Use lip pencil [all over], then add lip balm – it’s just creamy enough to stop lips from drying out, but has the longevity of a matt lipstick,” says Max May, hair and make-up artist.
2/ Luminous Skin
If you want to keep your eyes on the track rather than your make-up, go for a naturally radiant look, which, with the right prep, doesn’t take much upkeep throughout the day. For make-up that looks flawless and lasts, make-up artist and Giorgio Armani beauty ambassador Max May suggests using “a super-hydrating moisturiser to even skin tone and improve foundation wear”. May also recommends a radiant matt finish. “It helps with longevity, but blurs flaws and keeps skin looking fresh and youthful,” he says. To add luminosity, use a touch of highlighter to brow bones and cheekbones.
3/ Metallic Eyes
Metallic lids are having a moment. To make them work this season, May recommends using metallic eyeshadow to “accessorise” the eyes. Champagne is his go-to shade, applied subtly to brow bones. “Or use an earthier tone, such as bronze on the centre of the lid to add a ping of light,” he says.
4/ Fluttery Lashes
False lashes can really define the eyes, so it’s a good beauty skill to have up your sleeve. “I love lashes at the races,” says May. “It gives you definition without having to wear any or as much eye make-up.” Or try Chanel Le Volume Revolution De Chanel mascara. The 3D-printed brush boasts honeycomb-like microcavities to deliver volume with zero clumping in just one stroke.
5/ Romantic Waves
When a hat is involved, hair is best kept either low or loose. “Hats sit on the top of the head, so you can’t have an updo or high ponytail,” says Katy Reeve, Toni & Guy’s national creative director. To keep strands in check, enlist a mousse and hairspray. “Good products are essential for a blow-dry,” says Reeve. “Work in a volumising mousse for a firm hold to your blow-dry, then use a hairspray to fix shapes and reflect humidity.”
6/ Clean Up-Dos
Minimalist and modern is a great route to take for racing season. “Races can be a long day, so your hair needs to be comfortable and have staying power,” says Reeve. “Keep it simple with clean shapes with at least one fixed area, like a ponytail or textured bun.”
Try this: Take it longer
"If you don't want to commit to semi-permanent extensions and just want a new look for the racing season, clip-in extensions are perfect," says Emilly Hadrill, hair extensions expert. "We colour match [and] cut them in to look completely natural."
A version of this article originally appeared in the November issue of marie claire, on sale now.
