Hourglass Cosmetics founder Carisa Janes’ best known quote regards her reason for creating the brand:  “I just want to look like me—only better.”

Can it be done? Yeah, pretty much!

At left, post-make up session at Harvey Nichols with Hourglass’ European training manager Mel Leonard; at right, face by meself.

Not bad! I always feel a little dubious after a makeover — how in the world am I ever going to replicate the pro touch? — but in fairness:

1} I have had a lot of practice, in my life, as regards the application of make up;
2} The brand is really quite ‘true’, by which I mean, it looks good even if you aren’t a trained professional.

Now, the eyes are lacking a wee bit. I didn’t have any eyeshadow on that day… did I? But the foundation is flawless mainly because the actual product, Veil Fluid Makeup SPF 15 in  Sand is pretty feckin’ flawless.

Or should I say products: beneath the veil of foundation is the Mineral Veil Primer: so smooth, so silky, so gentle, it is like spreading the cream of angel feathers all over your face.

Also in play: Hourglass Opaque Rouge Liquid Lipstick in Rose; would very much like to have the Empress as used in the session. I am finding the lippy to be somewhat drying: balm before ends in tears, but a touch of something, like Carmex, on top, helps it feel less itchy. Drying = itch-making, in this case.

I am very, very pleased with these products. Very pleased.

Hair at right courtesy of a breeze blowing through the window of the bus, which made the photo look exactly like a Mario Testino for Vogue photo shoot.

Exactly.

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Available in Ireland at Harvey Nichols; in the USA at Sephora and Bergdorf Goodman; and from Liberty in London.

http://www.hourglasscosmetics.com