The scoop from Britain’s Next Top Model Live.

This weekend I was in search of a serious style fix, so I hopped aboard London’s DLR and headed out to the Excel Centre to experience the first ever Britain’s Next Top Model Live.

As I tottered on to the train, dressed to impress is some rather regrettably towering platforms it quickly became clear that I was not the only one seeking a slice of the model life. The train was absolutely teeming with fashionistas - all dressed to the nines and all hungry for a piece of the fashion pie.


And the vast exhibition hall was certainly chocker with treats: from the rails of vintage wares with surprisingly purse friendly price tags, to the rather fabulously named Powder Room where the London College of Beauty were offering free treatments.

 Celebrity hair stylist Adee Phelan was there, scissors in hand, slicing and dicing countless gals’ tresses in to styled perfection.

The divine Emma Willis was also on hand to interview Britain’s Next Top Model host and ex-Calvin Klein model Charley Speed on the Kiss Open Catwalk and there were performances from Diana Vickers, Eliza Doolittle and singing sensation Jessie J to wow the crowds.

Members of the public were even given the chance to strut their stuff in front of a panel of fashion and beauty scouts at the Models 1 Casting Couch.
And there were countless Q&A sessions and trend talks being given by the likes of beauty blogging luminaries Pixiwoo and Gemma Cartwright, the former editor-in-chief of CatwalkQueen.tv

Pixiwoo host a demonstration

But the biggest highlight was undoubtedly the catwalk show itself, which saw finalists from the latest series of BNTM walking in an epic extravaganza that was peppered with awesome dance routines which slickly complemented the sound track of killer tunes.
I can’t deny it, I was in a girly paradise, but after all hours of running about, I just could not wait to get out of my shoes! x

60 seconds with Caroline Barnes

For over 14 years award-winning makeup artist Caroline Barnes has been at the top of her game:
She’s made up the faces of some of the biggest glamour pusses on the celebrity circuit. Think Kylie, Cheryl Cole, Diane Kruger and Alexandra Burke, to name a few!  Her looks have graced the pages of some of the most widely read women’s glossies from Marie Claire to Glamour and she’s done shoots with fashion’s most hallowed photographers, including Rankin and Wayne Maser.

Yet despite reaching dizzying heights working with celebrated stars from the fashion and music world, Caroline is at her most satisfied when she has her makeup brushes in hand and is pushing the beauty boundaries with signature versatility.

Here’s a little insight in to what makes this celebrated makeup guru and Max Factor UK Ambassador tick, from top tips for new season trends to which new products are currently crammed in to her makeup case. Enjoy!

Which products do you always have in your make up case?
I wheel a massive family suitcase of makeup around with me each day so there is very little I don't have, but I’m loving Max Factor’s new Xperience range. You need to experience the collection to understand how luxurious, yet lightweight these products feel on your skin lips and eyes. The foundation, mascara and sheer gloss for lips offer natural effortless beauty, with a weightless feel.

Which fashion shows have been your favourite to work on and why?
For Frost French and we created a Circus film and had Helena Christensen as the Ring Master and Jerry Hall as the Lion Tamer. It was really creative and a refreshing change from the super-slick looks of the traditional catwalk.

Any favourite backstage beauty tips?
Not to rush skin preparation. Hydration is key to a perfect complexion so I always encourage my team to concentrate on giving the girls a facial massage before they start the base.

Which Autumn Winter 2010/11 trends will you be wearing this season?
I’m a big fan of smoky eyes, but this season I'm going to be adding a hint of colour to my lids and blend it into the charcoal black, it feels and looks really fresh and modern.

Can you suggest one makeup trick that will instantly update a look?
Use a cream eyeshadow rather than a powder, the texture is totally different and looks much fresher and more modern on your eyes. It’s also very anti aging.

Do you have any tips for finding the perfect lipstick shade?
Don't try it on your hand as your hands aren't pink. The lipstick shade you choose will look totally different on your lips. Always test on your lips and for the most natural shade opt for a tone two shades darker than your own.

LeBeado show takes fashion to the max!

Exclusive private members' club Home House is a frequent venue for nights that ooze glitz and glamour, but its evening hosting a LeBeado catwalk show gave new meaning to the notion of a sparkling event.

The premium bead boutique, which has recently launched its third bejeweled heaven in shopping Mecca Westfield, fused fashion, beauty and accessories into an evening that dazzled almost as much as the fantastic array of gems and ready-to-wear jewellery that lines its shelves.

The look of each of the models featured at the Shock and Awe themed charity show* was kept simple: Think flawless bases enhanced with a cheekbone-skimming sweep of illuminating cream, subtly defined eyes with lashings of lengthening mascara and nude lips. The fashions, however, presented a bold counterpoint.

Graduate Fashion Week one-to-watch Naomi New showcased her incredible collection, which took inspiration from 15th century armour, horses and apocalyptic flick Mad Max. Her show-stopping designs utilise leather, suede, horse hair and bone, creating one-off pieces with the theatricality to make even a seasoned costume queen like Lady GaGa giddy.

Other top picks of the evening included ex Philip Treacy milliner Olivia Roat's bespoke headpieces and the presentation of Beulah London's Spring/Summer 2011 collection - a vibrant rainbow of sweeping, premium silk gowns. 

Artemis Boots and Yull's unique footwear and designer Flora McKillop's quirky hand candy gave further dimensions to the show. 

And peppered amidst the designer showcase, were LeBeado's own designs worn by self-assured, not to mention strapping, male models who donned them in style.

The goodie bags nestled beneath the chairs of all who attended, offered a charming reminder that making your own masterpiece is only ever a craft afternoon away. 

*All proceeds in aid of the Mark Evison Foundation and Kids Company.

Naomi New's show-stopping designs

Beulah London S/S11

Male models rock jewellery for one night only