Insider Info

 Here in the US many of us don't have easy access to international fashion publications. (A tragic oversight of todays technology), so I am always exited when I can come across an editorial form the UK, France, Italy, etc. Here we have some beauty tips from Gossip Girl's Leighton Meester, of whom I am a HUGE fan!I put the picture captions underneath since they're really hard to read, so I didn't write them the editors at Marie Clair UK did.

Disco Pout:

‘When I put on lipstick, I don’t need much else,’ says Hollywood actress and Herbal Essences spokesmodel Leighton Meester. Use Dior Rouge Dior Haute Couleur Lipstick in Blazing Red, then top with glitter fro Studio 54 drama.

Tucked Up:

‘Mimicking a bob with long hair gives a different silhouette, accentuates the jawline and give extra body,’ says celebrity stylist for Herbal Essences Charles Baker Strahan. To get this wild texture, first prep with Sebastian Microweb fiber. Strahan tossed the hair from side to side, ruffling up the lengths, then threw a jacket over Leighton’s shoulders and hair.

Plaited Bun:

I’m anti-glam when it comes to wearing my hair up- I like it a bit undone with lots of flyaways,’ says Leighton. Strahan says, ‘Rake back hair with your fingers and secure the pony on the crown. Then plait the tail, wind it around the base, secure with pics and leave the ends visible.’

Smoky Eyes:

‘I advise everyone to flirt with their eyes,’ says Leighton. ‘People will approach you more and you’ll feel more confident.’ To get this smoky look, paint Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner in Black Ink across the eyelids. Smudge Lancôme Crayon Kohl Noir on the bottom lashes. Finish with jet-black mascara like Dior Diorshadow Mascara.

Dipped Ends:

If you want to keep your colour from looking too try-hard, sun-kissed ends work well. ‘Dipping the ends with a lighter colour gives a cool, lived-in edge,’ says Strahan. Try Daniel Hersheson Micro Uplighting Treatment, or paint ends with Clairol Nice ‘n Easy in Natural Ultra Light.

Punky Topknot:

After season of ladylike updos, it seems topknots are now the pinnacle of sexiness, giving a rebellious look. ‘ This is a dangerous party-girl ‘do,’ says Leighton. Strahan says ‘Wash hair with Herbal Essences Dazzling Shone Shampoo and Conditioner, then twist small sections and pin to the head until you get to the nape of your neck.’