From her expert use of highlighter, to her penchant for a killer red lip, Shay Mitchell is frequently a source of major beauty inspiration. Just a cursory glance at her Instagram shows her modelling a series of bold trends – from a red eye shadow to neon yellow nails – and she totally rocks the no makeup look, too. Now the Pretty Little Liars star is the face of Smashbox’s seven new Cover Shot Eye Palettes, embodying a different character for each set. We caught up with the star to get the lowdown on her beauty regime plus her makeup tips and tricks.
Why did you want to partner with Smashbox on these eyeshadow palates?
I am always shooting at Smashbox Studios and it just made sense when Smashbox asked me to be the face of this campaign. I have been obsessed with Smashbox for as long as I have been wearing makeup, plus the palettes totally mimic my many personalities.
How involved were you with creating the seven different looks for the shoot?
I had some insight but I think the stylists were surprised about how much I fell in to the role of each character I portrayed during the shoot.
Do you have a favourite palate?
I find that I have been using the Ablaze palette the most. The colours are super wearable and you can create a fun smokey eye with it.
What’s your go-to beauty look for the red carpet?
Contour and a smokey eye, for sure!
Are you a lips or an eyes girl when it comes to makeup?
Totally eyes – winged liner or a smokey eye are my go-tos!
Which three beauty products couldn’t you live without?
Coconut Oil, Cover Shot Palette in Smokey and Bioré Self Heating One Minute Mask.
Do you have any beauty hacks you’d like to share with us?
Blending is crucial when contouring and highlighting! Blend, blend, blend... my makeup artist taught me that not blending can ruin a whole look.
You’re often rocking a bold red lip – what’s your secret to getting it perfect?
My amazing makeup artist ;)
Which beauty bloggers do you follow?
I love Desi Perkins and Makeup Shayla on YouTube, I think they are super talented.
Who is your beauty icon and why?
I don't have one beauty icon because I think just like my fashion style, my beauty style evolves as well but I will always love the old Hollywood Sophia Loren glam…
What’s your biggest beauty faux pas?
Trying to do my own winged eyeliner… it never ends up being even and then after 17 minutes of trying my eyes are just black smudgy messes :)
What’s the most expensive beauty product you own?
Hmm, I am always willing to pay for a really great under eye cream because my mother always told me it was super important to start early with that!
Do you change up your beauty look for winter / summer?
I feel like I change my look up daily (sometimes more!) but it really depends on where I am and what I’m doing.
The new Cover Shot Eye Palettes will be available nationwide from the 18th Feb as well as from www.smashbox.co.uk__.