In the glamorous world of red carpet events, iconic looks often steal the spotlight. Behind these unforgettable moments stands Genevieve Herr, a celebrated makeup artist renowned for her work with A-list celebrities such as Anna Wintour, Amanda Seyfried, and Julia Roberts. During an exclusive session at L’Oréal’s headquarters, Herr revealed her philosophy and techniques for creating natural yet stunning beauty looks. Her approach focuses on enhancing individual features rather than drastically altering them, advocating for products that emphasize radiance and authenticity. Herr shared insights into her signature style, preferred products, and upcoming trends, offering fans a glimpse into the artistry behind high-profile appearances.
Herr's journey in the world of makeup began unexpectedly after discovering an advertisement in TV Guide for a makeup artistry course. Her career took off when she was introduced to Anna Wintour by her first agent, Timothy Priano. Despite not recognizing Wintour initially, Herr impressed her so profoundly that she became Wintour's personal makeup artist for five years. This pivotal experience opened doors to working with other top-tier clients like Julia Roberts, whom she met while styling Susan Sarandon's wedding. Over the years, Herr has honed her craft through countless photo shoots and red carpet events, earning her reputation as a master of enhancing natural beauty.
A cornerstone of Herr's technique lies in her preference for lightweight, buildable products that promote a fresh and radiant appearance. One of her go-to items is Lancôme Génifique Face Serum, which she credits for its ability to plump and soften aging skin, creating the perfect canvas for makeup application. She also favors Serum Supertint for its flexible coverage options, allowing users to achieve a flawless look without feeling weighed down. For eyes, Herr swears by a fast-drying liquid eyeshadow and liner duo, which provides long-lasting, smudge-resistant color that can double as blush. When it comes to lashes, she advocates for brown mascara paired with individual extensions to create volume without appearing overly dramatic.
Lips are another focal point in Herr's repertoire, where she emphasizes the importance of using lip liners to ensure longevity and precision. For older clients, she suggests opting for softer eyeliner shades like gray or brown instead of harsh black lines, recommending Lancôme's Idôle liner for its versatility and ease of use. Herr tailors each look to suit the client's unique features, as seen in Amanda Seyfried's bold lip choice at the 2024 Met Gala, balancing vibrant color with understated eye makeup.
Herr's expertise extends beyond her artistic talents; she is also passionate about sharing her knowledge with enthusiasts eager to recreate celebrity-worthy styles at home. By focusing on enhancing natural beauty and utilizing high-quality yet accessible products, Herr empowers individuals to embrace their authentic selves while achieving glamorous results. As she continues to inspire both professionals and amateurs alike, her legacy as a trailblazer in the beauty industry remains firmly established.