Behind the scenes beauty at Style Birmingham Live

— 3 October 2012

Style Birmingham live with Selfridges

Last weekend Selfridges took pride of place in the Style Birmingham Live catwalk show, showcasing the must-have AW12 trends in an extended final scene.

We went behind the scenes where, amid the chaos of gorgeous models, last-minute outfit changes and plenty of hairspray, we talked to the hair and make-up gurus at Umberto Giannini and Illamasqua to discover the latest beauty trends.

Behind the scenes beauty at Style Birmingham Live

How would you describe this look and what inspired you?

Umberto Giannini: There's a lot of high gloss looks coming from the catwalk, so I have tried to capture that in this luxurious wave style. It’s all about being glossy, shiny and expensive looking.

Illamsaqua: I am inspired by people’s faces and their natural beauty. The best looks are not ones created but natural ones enhanced. The look today has been inspired by Gucci and Etro - I love the polished look.

Behind the scenes beauty at Style Birmingham Live

What products have you used to create this look?

Umberto Giannini: All products to create this look have been used from the incredible body range with the Glam Hair hairspray to set the look.

Illamsaqua: The new Illamasqua Generation Q collection.

What looks do you love for AW12?

Umberto Giannini: I love the smoother looks - high gloss and high finish. Simple but luxurious, for example sleek ponytails or glossy waves.

Illamasqua: I love the peculiar colours that are currently coming off the catwalk, such as sapphire or garnet lips. These colours that would normal be avoided in make-up but are now being seen a lot more.

Behind the scenes beauty at Style Birmingham Live

What is your top style tip?

Umberto Giannini: Volume! The volume doesn’t have to be created just from the roots of your hair it can be created towards the ends with curls, waves, crimps, backcombing. Volume tip: Brush blow dry your hair but wait a few seconds for the hair to cool before you remove the brush - this will create great natural looking volume.

Illamasqua: Be who you want to be. Don't listen to rules and trends - just wear whatever makes you feel most comfortable.

What is your must have product?

Umberto Giannini: Never leave home without a can of hairspray.

Illamasqua: Illamasqua Skin Base Foundation - to reveal a perfect skin enhancement.

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