In this day and age makeup education can come from a whole load of different sources and with trends changing every month it’s sometimes hard to keep up with the all the latest products and innovations in the makeup industry. When I’m teaching I always come back to some of the books that helped me both in the beginning and books I still reach for today.

To help celebrate World Book Day, I thought I’d dig out the makeup books and share my favourites.

Whilst Pretty Powerful is written by makeup legend Bobbi Brown, the book interviews women from differing backgrounds offering an insight into their makeup routines. What I’ve always loved about Bobbi Brown’s makeup ethos is the slight adjustments in technique to enhance natural beauty, rather than to cover up with layers of foundation. Pretty Powerful is filled with step by steps and useful tips to help everyday makeup wearers get the most out of their makeup bags and their natural beauty, without a filter in sight.

**Funmi Fetto - Palette: The Beauty Bible for Women of Colour**

Such a great book for those wanting to know more about skincare and makeup for deeper skin tones, written by someone who really knows their stuff. Fumni Fetto is a contributing editor for British Vogue as well as podcast host and beauty director at The Observer. What a CV!

Whilst it may be written for people of colour, I think we can all take valuable advice and knowledge from Palette. It certainly changed the way I looked at my consultations for women of deeper complexions, and the recommendations for makeup have worked beautifully in my professional kit. A must!

**Lisa Eldridge - FacePaint: The Story of Makeup**

For those interested in the history of colour cosmetics, this one is for you. Lisa Eldridge goes through the ages in this look back at makeup through the eras and the styles that made them. I’ve recommended FacePaint to all my Fashion Makeup students over the years, it’s especially handy for those studying period makeup. There’s a great BBC documentary on YouTube with Lisa inspired by this book, I’d recommend grabbing yourself a copy if you’re a makeup fan, makeup artist or generally interested in how makeup defined the eras.

**Kevyn Aucoin - Face Forward and Making Faces**

Making Faces and Face Foward were my first 2 makeup books when starting out and I still love them both to this day! Incredible transformations in Makeup Faces and Face Forward details the basics of makeup application which never go out of fashion. The late Kevyn Aucoin will always be one of my makeup heroes, and these books will stay with me forever.

Of all the careers I’d like, Val’s would be it! A legend across fashion, beauty and creative makeup this book embodies it all. I’ve referencing Val’s work in countless shoots over the years and I love this collection of images showcasing everything from fresh beauty to avant garde makeup design.

All good makeup starts with good skincare. A 2020 lockdown staple of mine, Caroline Hirons’ Skin Care is a fantastic book that goes through the fundamentals of skincare, skin conditions, types and everything in between.

**Rachel Duffy - Creative Makeup: A step-by-step guide to expressive makeup from fantasy to full illusion**

Creative Makeup by local gal Rachel Duffy is a walk through of 12 fabulous makeup looks to inspire those needing to get those creative juices flowing. The book covers so many techniques from achieving a perfect base to her stunning illusion looks. Love the detailed step by steps and the incredible images, perfect for those getting creative!

Have I missed your favourite? Drop it in the comments!

Jen x

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