Sexy Like Victoria’s Secret

Nobody owns “sexy” like Victoria’s Secret. From the lingerie, the beauty products to the mega-models, the company really knows how to project “sexy”.

I am lucky to have been part of the Victoria’s Secret family for many years. For this extraordinary brand I have created the makeup for countless commercials, campaigns and “books” (as the catalogs are called) and through those assignments I have had to interpret what “sexy” really means.

My conclusion is that whether you are Alessandra Ambrosio, Adriana Lima, Doutzen Kroes or an average female, the same rules apply.

Rule #1: The big D. There is a difference between “sexy” – meaning sensual and alluring – and “trashy”, which is overly obvious and coarse. “Sexy” always keeps it sweet and a little fragile, like Marilyn Monroe. Think Charlize Theron vs Pamela Andersson, Beyoncé vs Lil Kim, Jessica Alba vs Kim Kardashian… You get the picture.

Rule #2: Keep it balanced. If you want to look sexy and classy, don’t do a head-to-toe combo of big hair, layers of makeup, eight-inch pumps and revealing clothes unless you have a master’s degree in style.

Rule #3: Watch your expression. I’ve learned this one from the best of the best. If you are already wearing obviously sexy clothes, avoid pressing the point by looking like a snarling man-eating beast. Relax and take a casual approach by seeming unaware that you are a walking scandal!

Rule #4: Keep it subtle. For centuries, prostitutes in every civilization have used some sort of makeup to advertise their services. So, if you don’t want to give the wrong impression, control your urge to paint it on. Clean up the skin, give your cheeks a tad of color and accentuate your lashes and your lips. I love a simple, smudgy, smoky brown eye and a pinky beige lip gloss. If you want to use a classic red lipstick, stay minimal by just adding to the lashes and leaving the eyelid looking bare.

keep it subtle, it's sexier

Rule #5: When in doubt, smile and laugh. A sense of humor is attractive and being attractive is the name of the game, isn’t it?

Here’s a quip from someone who’s perfectly aware of what how she comes across and can laugh at it: “It takes a lot of money to look this cheap!” said by the wonderful Dolly Parton.

Take a look at a couple of makeup tutorials I recently did with supermodel Ale Ambrosio for VS. Even though my name got completely mangled I think they are great and very informative:
Victoria’s Secret Beauty How To Get A Fall Smoky Eye
Victoria’s Secret Beauty Using a Concealer to Brighten Your Eyes

Tags: lips, MAKEOVERS, sexy, smoky eye, Tips & Tricks, Victoria's Secret