Movie star and philanthropist Audrey Hepburn was known for her signature look: carefully set doe eyes, flawless skin, and luscious coral lips. The makeup artist behind this iconic look was Alberto De Rossi, a favorite of legendary actors of the time such as Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor, Maria Callas, and Ava Gardner. Although de Rossi died in 1975, his work lives on in classic films such as “War and Peace” (1956), “Cleopatra” (1963), and “Charades” (1963). Continuing.
Makeup artist and historian Erin Parsons recently revealed one of de Rossi’s 1972 Vogue interviews. “The first time I did Audrey Hepburn’s makeup was for ‘Roman Holiday,’ and I’ve done her makeup in movies and photo shoots ever since,” he told Vogue. . “Women have always wanted to imitate her. They still do. They always will.”
On that last point, De Rossi wasn’t wrong. Whether it’s the ’60s, the ’70s, or the middle of 2024, there’s still something about Hepburn’s beauty that captivates.
Audrey Hepburn’s skin care and makeup routine
Di Rossi always started with a pretty face. “Soap and water. It can be very drying for some complexions, but there are certainly special soaps for that type of skin,” the Italian makeup artist explained in an article for Vogue (via Parsons). The modern option would probably be Dove’s moisturizing soap). Then he opened his Louis Vuitton makeup case, tied a red bandanna to keep his hair in check, and got to work.
Di Rossi always chose to layer foundation on her face and neck, describing it as a “light patina.” For a similar result, choose something with a dewy finish like Chantecaille Future Skin Gel Foundation or Danessa Myricks Beauty Yummy Skin Foundation.
Next, gently sprinkle a layer of powder all over your face. Afterwards, di Rossi says, “I spray it with Evian spray, let it sit for two minutes, and then wipe it off with Kleenex.” Then, her skin becomes brighter. ” Consider this the world’s first setting powder.
Di Rossi’s makeup techniques were unprecedented before him. And certain things seem unusual in 2024, too. “First, I have the subject photographed without makeup, with the lens centered on the face, and in flat light. Then I order a significant enlargement and begin redesigning the face in the photograph. I ( I believe that (makeup),” he says. This is a sculpture, not a painting. Color is not the only factor. ”
For Hepburn, this means using different shades of powder to create depth. It was also called contouring before it had a name. “I mix colored powders to sculpt and shade my face, depending on the face: flat forehead, cheekbones, jawline, nose, and chin.” Di Rossi’s powders and products Everything was custom made for the customer by her makeup artist son, but that’s no longer the case. This Illya Baked Palette combines cream-format shades with the Anastasia Beverly Hills Contour Palette.
When it came to the iconic doe eyes and strong eyebrows, Di Rossi knew he was dealing with something iconic. “An important face needs eyebrows,” he says. “Even if it’s a little outdated.” It’s comforting to know that even Hepburn needed a little brow powder and pencil, but as Di Rossi grew older, she used less and less.
“I get very emotional when I’m working!” Di Rossi says, especially regarding the magic he created with Hepburn.
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