Backstage beauty at Pink Tartan and Joe Fresh

Last night I was lucky enough to sneak back stage for two of the most anticipated runway shows of Toronto Fashion week: Pink Tartan and Joe Fresh. The power couple (Kim Newport-Mimram and Joe Mimram) did not disappoint, choosing on-trend beauty looks for their Spring 2012 collections. For extra inspiration, I spoke with Eddie Malter and Eric Del Monaco of L’Oreal Paris about how they created the looks.

Pink Tartan
This sexy, 60’s, exaggerated cat eye was inspired by Bridgitte Bardot. To achieve the look, using a liquid liner, follow and extend the natural line of your lower lashes towards the outer edge of your brow. For the totally nude mouth, Malter primed the lip first with foundation before applying a clear gloss - the more the better. Strong brows and a shimmery shadow across the lid and tear duct area finish off the look.

For the loose, boudoir waves, Del Monaco used a large barrel curling iron starting from the mid shaft, and wrapped the bottom half of tresses once around the iron. For extra volume (and a less polished look) flip your head upside down and massage a small amount of styling wax into the roots. And of course, a little hairspray always helps.

Pro tip: Before applying hair wax, emulsify the product well between hands and fingers so that it will divide more evenly throughout your locks.

Joe Fresh
Just like the brand, this look was sporty, clean and fresh. The barely there makeup was all about a dewy complexion, which Malter mastered with the L’Oreal Paris Visible Lift Foundation. He skipped shadows and liners, opting instead for a single coat of mascara and a natural, pink mouth.  Plain and simple, but perfectly pretty.

This low pony look is sleek yet natural. Start with a quick blow out to smooth locks, and create a short side part before pulling hair back. Del Monaco hid the elastic by wrapping a small section of hair from the ponytail around the base and securing with bobby pins.

Pro tip: To create a dewy complexion look for an illuminating base and skip the powder, it will only mattify your skin.