Celebrity make-up artist Charlotte Tilbury’s favourite ring was gifted by a supermodel

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Each week, we quiz a prominent person about their style and the inspiration behind it. Ahead, make-up artist Charlotte Tilbury.

Charlotte Tilbury’s long list of favourite designers include Tom Ford and John Galliano.

How would you describe your style? Eclectic, bohemian, glam rock, and sometimes, medieval.

What’s the oldest thing in your wardrobe? I have so many vintage pieces. The oldest is probably my 18th-century Iberian emerald chandelier earrings.

And the most recent addition? A 1930s chiffon boudoir gown in a gorgeous vampy red. It’s very “old Hollywood”.

What would you wear … on a first date? A Saint Laurent LBD with Gianvito Rossi heels and a scent halo of “Love Frequency” and “More Sex” from my Emotions fragrance collection. … on a plane? I wear Lululemon leggings with a cashmere Intimissimi boatneck top, cashmere Loro Piana cardigan, Saint Laurent cowboy boots and my “Immediate Eye Revival” patches, so I arrive glowing. … on the red carpet? The Atelier Versace dress, designed by my friend Donatella, that I wore to the 2023 Met Gala was a work of art.

What’s your favourite fashion era? I love the old Hollywood glamour of the 1950s, the flared Studio 54 silhouettes of the 1970s and, of course, the 1990s, when I started my career as a make-up artist. It was such an exciting time to be working in the fashion and beauty industry. We created so many looks that are re-emerging on TikTok today.

Who is your favourite designer? I can’t pick a favourite, but I love Galliano, Saint Laurent, Alaïa, Versace, Valentino and Tom Ford.

What’s your fragrance of choice? I carry my “Emotions” fragrance collection with me at all times. I layer them, whether it’s the jasmine and sweet vanilla of “Joyphoria” or the distilled rose and patchouli of “Love Frequency”. They’re my invisible superpowers.

What are the three essential items in your wardrobe? I’m going to cheat and say four – belts, bags, shoes and jewels. It’s all about the accessories for a fabulous outfit, darling.

What’s one beauty product you can’t live without? My “Magic Cream”, created to revive the skin of supermodels backstage at fashion shows. Now, one pot is sold every minute worldwide. It’s adored by Kylie Minogue and Sienna Miller; George Clooney wears it every day!

Tilbury (Left) with George and Amal Clooney in London last month.

Any go-to jewellery? I never leave the house without my vintage necklaces, bracelets and rings, including the most beautiful antique gold and amethyst ring that Kate Moss gave me.

Can you remember a favourite outfit you wore as a child? I’ve always loved dressing up – I was stealing my mother’s clothes from age 10. I remember styling a 1950s circle dress with a sequin bustier top and white gloves, trying to channel Marilyn Monroe.

What was your first fashion moment? I remember going to a shop called The End in Ibiza, where I grew up, and buying a military-style Jean Paul Gaultier jacket. I was about 14. I adored that jacket.

And your worst fashion mistake? I don’t believe in them. We should embrace the past and think positively about the future.

What’s on your wish list? A fabulous long leather Chloé coat with shearling trim.

Is there a current trend you like? I love the dreamy ’70s Chloé-girl look.

What do you wear to bed? A Carine Gilson silk nightgown.

Tilbury loves to layer the “Emotions” fragrance collection.

What shoes do you wear most often? High heels by Gianvito Rossi, Prada and Aquazzura.

Who’s your favourite fashion icon? My dear friend Kate Moss. She’s also my beauty muse. I created some iconic looks for her in the ’90s – we would mix multiple lipsticks and concealers to get that perfect nude lipstick.

What do you wear on a typical working day? There is no typical day. I could be in Stella McCartney tailoring for a board meeting or a fabulous vintage Dior gown for a campaign shoot.

What’s your favourite off-duty, casual Sunday look? A vintage chiffon dress with my Etro belt and Saint Laurent heeled boots.

Charlotte Tilbury products are available from Mecca.

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