She’s just a girl, but Gwen Stefani is a mighty talented one who’s constantly staying ahead of the curve. When she’s not busy touring the world, picking up another Grammy Award, being a vocal coach, designing clothes, tending to her children, and creating an animated TV series for kids, the singer-songwriter taps into her other major interest: beauty.
Gwen’s image is one that’s largely tied to a bright red lip, but needless to say, she’s never been one to shy away from experimental makeup looks throughout her music career. A beauty rebel, no doubt. Now, as Revlon‘s newest Global Brand Ambassador starring in their Choose Love campaign, Gwen Stefani proves to be the perfect modern-day icon for our generation. We stole a few moments from her busy day to find out why beauty occupies such a special space in her heart.
Do you remember your first-ever purchase from Revlon?
As a little girl, going to the drug store and going down the makeup aisle was one of my favourite things to do, ever. I remember my first purchase was a lipstick. It might have been the Super Lustrous Lipstick in “Cherries in the Snow”.
Your identity is synonymous with red lipstick. Can you tell us why it’s your colour of choice?
I don’t really know why I love red lipstick so much. I think it’s quite glamorous and makes a bold statement and makes me feel unique.
How did your interest in beauty begin?
My interest in beauty began by watching my beautiful mother when I was a little girl, putting on her makeup and it was just a natural interest in to beauty.
Were there any other individuals who helped shape your beauty identity?
I think my love for red lipstick probably came from my love for old Hollywood and Hollywood glamour and seeing images of Marilyn Monroe and Jean Harlow and anything vintage. I think the first time I wore red lipstick was when my grandmother gave me for Christmas, a multi-colour lipstick tube of all different colours and there was a dark, almost like a burnt red – a really deep red and I tried it on. I remember exactly where I was. I was sitting in my car, in the driveway and I put it on in the rear view mirror.
Are there any beauty tips or tricks you’ve picked up from your music career?
I think I’ve learned a lot about foundation and highlights and different kinds of shading you can do. These are new tricks that I’ve learned in recent years.
From your very first gig to your most recent performance, how would you say your look has evolved? Any beauty regrets along the way?
I would say I haven’t changed much. I think I do things that make me feel confident and good. Through the years, I’ve worn light lips, red lips, and my whole thing is about exploring new looks and to hold on to ones that work for you. Probably trying a chemical cut has been the craziest thing that has ever happened – when my hair fell out during the Tragic Kingdom tour and consequently experienced short hair for the first time without a choice.
Main image: @gwenstefani
