The Princess of Wales has become something of a royal rule breaker in her 40s, from upending stuffy protocols to making unexpected hair colour switches. Now she’s breaking a beauty rule we’ve always held sacred – yet Kate's trick works so brilliantly on older women we’re wondering why we've not considered doing the same.
Take Kate’s latest appearance, at a reception to mark the 125th anniversary of Cancer Research UK. Kate, 44, looked as glowing as ever, but if you take a moment to break down her beauty look you’ll notice something striking: it’s the same makeup she now wears whatever the royal occasion, day or night.
For Kate, this ‘round the clock’ beauty is all about a seamlessly blended smokey eye. ‘It’s always the feature of her makeup look, always soft and pretty, but adds just the right amount of elevation and glamour for both day to night events and appearances,’ explains celebrity makeup artist Fiona Florczak. ‘Outfits can be changed, but that makeup complements all her beautiful clothing, which makes for a quick and easy classic look when you have a busy schedule.’
Why it’s a smart rule to break, right now
While we may not be juggling a schedule of royal engagements, we’re all busy women – and so this is a brilliant makeup strategy to adopt in midlife, Fiona confirms.
‘Women always think they need to change their makeup for day and night, but that’s a rule to break, especially as you get older,’ Fiona says. ‘The Princess of Wales shows that one of the best things you can do, beauty-wise, is to find a makeup look that complements your features and style, day and night.’
‘That’s not to say you can’t experiment, but there’s a real value in finding your own ‘comfort zone’ that makes you look and feel great.’
How to do Kate’s ‘round the clock’ beauty
Start with what makes you feel ‘you but better’ rather than seeking to reinvent yourself for every moment or occasion. ‘The desk to disco days are long over, with women now choosing great skin that lasts all day,’ Fiona advises. ‘With beauty leaning more towards skin prep, makeup now is much cleaner and pared back. Glowing skin, plus complementary colour-balancing eyeshadows and blushers are the stars of the show.’
While this technique can and should be adapted to individual faces (‘there are no rules!’), Kate’s 24-7 eye technique is a good suits-all option that works round the clock.
‘Princess Kate’s soft eye definition gives a long-lasting look that keeps her looking groomed and put together without the makeup looking too heavy,’ Fiona explains. ‘A soft, smoked eyeliner instead of anything harsh and graphic adds a prettier daytime glam that also lends itself to an evening look.’ A good setting spray will keep things in place without drying skin out.
Finding the right makeup tones is key, too. Two words: No clashes. ‘Using warm, neutral shades that complement the eyes means you can throw on any outfit and the makeup doesn’t need to be changed to suit,' says Fiona. 'That keeps it simple for busy lives.’
How to make it work year-round
Once you’ve hit upon your 24-7 makeup signature, don’t forget to adapt it to the seasons. ‘For summer we definitely need lighter application, with layered skincare including SPFs you can mist on over makeup to top up protection,’ advises Fiona. ‘Keep the skin breathable yet protected. Light layers work best.’
As Kate shows, makeup texture is everything. ‘Do use cream products like bronzers for a ‘glowing from within’ look, and keep powder light, and just for the T-zone, to avoid caking,’ says Fiona.
This light touch is all part of the reason why Kate always looks so great, adds Fiona. ‘’The princess always looks effortless. It’s a chic yet a considered look, whatever the occasion.’
Consider the old ‘day to night' switch-up confined to the bin.
