Jemma Kidd has recently released a fabulous book – Jemma Kidd Make-Up Secrets* – detailing everything you need to know about make-up application, skincare preparation, beauty-focused diet tips and everything in between. It includes guides, how-tos, step-by-steps, lists, problem-solvers and a good selection of looks to work through.
Being beauty obsessed, I’m the sort of person who buys magazines and heads straight to the beauty pages so I’m always keen to find beauty books that are of use and that will hopefully strengthen my knowledge of make-up and general cosmetics. A lot of books get it a bit wrong in assuming that those reading are people who know absolutely nothing about make-up. Thankfully this book isn’t patronising and has something to offer everyone with an interest in beauty.
I like the fact that there are step by step guides on creating certain looks that are timeless (such as Brigitte Bardot and Audrey Hepburn) and the troubleshooting guides are really handy; things such as how to apply eye make-up if your eyes are prominent or wide-set etc. The basics that everyone needs are covered (fake eye lash application and the various ways to wing eyeliner) and there are lots of tips and tricks to keep you informed along the way.
The one thing I don’t like is the lack of product recommendations; for each look there are a list of products you’ll need and I would’ve liked specific examples. For example, rather than specifying the need for a light brown eyeshadow, I would’ve liked some suggestions as to which are recommended. I realise it’s a tricky ask and would’ve risked making the book sound like an advert (since there is a Jemma Kidd make-up range, inevitably the products would’ve leaned heavily towards the JK line) but as Laura Mercier Secret Camouflage was mentioned at one point, I don’t think it would’ve been too difficult to get the balance right.
The photography is both stunning and helpful and appears to be fairly untouched. For the look guides you get an image of the finished look as well as a break down of the key elements to create the look which I personally found really helpful.
If you’re a fan of beauty (and if not then you’re probably in the wrong place!) and fancy finding a book that will help you branch out with your make-up looks, try new ideas and perfect old favourites then this is a great place to start.
Jemma Kidd Make-Up Secrets is available now for £25.
