Ariana DeBose's "Elegant" Oscars Makeup Was Inspired by Josephine Baker

Ariana DeBose's "Elegant" Oscars Makeup Was Inspired by Josephine Baker

Last year, Ariana DeBose made history by becoming the first queer woman of color to win an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in West Side Story. This year, she was chosen as a presenter and returned to the 95th Academy Awards ceremony to pay tribute to another historical woman, French performer Josephine Baker.

"Because the gown is so detailed, we wanted to keep her makeup elegant and focus on Ali's gorgeous skin and eyes," Andrea Tiller, a makeup artist who used Iconic London exclusive makeup products, Marie Claire. For the production, I looked to iconic Hollywood trailblazer Josephine Baker, but with a modern twist on her almond shape and elongated, cool-toned smoky eyes."

This stunning look, featuring gorgeous, glowing skin and a "wet" effect, was not decided on the spur of the moment, but was created over many days. Tiller first saw DeBose's Versace gown two weeks ago. That's when she went to the drawing board.

"The inspiration for this makeup started with the gown; it has a 30's Hollywood, art deco vibe with elements of the modern woman warrior. It exudes confidence and strength, and I wanted to express that in the makeup," says Tiller. But the beauty of the look was brought about by a slight juxtaposition. This time, because the gowns are so structured and detailed, I wanted the makeup to be elegant, sexy, and timeless."

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To achieve these goals, Iconic London's makeup products were prepared. The layers were plentiful and the artistry had never been greater, but there were a few products that were indispensable if one was on a mission to recreate this atmosphere. One of the most important is Underglow Blurring Primer, coincidentally the first one applied to DeBose's face (and body). Says Tiller, "Not only does it create a natural glow as a primer on the face, but when used on the collarbone and body, it also makes a gorgeous body highlighter and provides a smooth blurring effect."

When it comes to actual coverage, Tiller chose one of my personal favorite products, Super Smoother Blurring Skin Tint." It's also such a beautiful lightweight hydrating formula that has effective coverage and photographs well," she adds. After a little concealer and contouring, she pulls out MVP's Silk Glow Duo in Rose Glow.

"I love the two colors, blush and highlighter, they add that perfect glow, like you're glowing from the inside out."

After the "wet" eye makeup continued, Tiller sent DeBose off with a small makeup goodie bag for the final touches on the carpet. She was given the essentials, which included "Fuller Pout "T.T.Y.N" lip liner, "Nearly Nude" and "Not Your Baby" lip plumping glosses, and some blotting paper for her T-zone.

To shop DeBose's entire look, scroll ahead.

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