Seasoned style star Olivia Culpo’s approach to the red carpet is all about balance. “If you have a simple dress, you could do a lot more with hair and make-up. For me, tonight, I wanted something that was super classic red carpet because the dress is pretty glam and va-va voom, if you will. I wanted the make-up to complement the pink without being overpowering, so I focus more on the skin and the glow.”

We’re speaking to the 31-year old model and actress ahead of The Fashion Awards in London last night, where she’s attending in celebration of her friend, beauty mogul Charlotte Tilbury–who’s the recipient of this year’s Special Recognition Award for contributions to fashion and beauty.

The “pretty glam” ensemble in question is a Miss Sohee creation, a black velvet floor-grazing number with pastel pink bedazzled petal-like pieces around the waist that makes the wearer appear like a glamorous stamen from a blossoming flower.

To mirror the shimmering petals, Culpo and her make-up artist Sofia Castiglione went with a hint of shine on hazy smoky eyes, defined cheekbones and a neutral lip. “I love the highlight on my cheek, the sparkle on the eyelids and I use Supermodel Body on my shoulders and clavicle,” muses Culpo.

As for hair, Culpo and hairstylist Ross Kwan opted for a natural finish as to not detract from the rest of the ensemble. “My favourite part was the natural texture of the hair. I love that it’s off my face and off my shoulders,” says Culpo of her sleek, side-parted ‘do with gentle waves.

It’s a look that doesn’t veer far from Culpo’s signature style; a kind of timeless glamour that works for every occasion. “I rely on the Charlotte Tilbury products such as the Iconic Nude Lip Cheat – my absolute favourite – just with some lip balm, curl my eyelashes, brush up my brows and a little bit of the Airbrush Flawless Foundation, Supermodel Body and the highlight wands.”

Her relationship with Charlotte Tilbury began serendipitously on a flight ten years ago. “Her son was still a tiny baby and I remember she was juggling her baby and I asked her she wanted help with him while she eats her meal. We became really close. She said to me on the plane, ‘I have a beauty brand coming out and I’d love to tell you about it’,” she shares.

For special evenings like these, looking dewy fresh starts by drinking a tonne of water and prepping the skin with plenty of moisture. “We used the Cryo Recovery Eye Serum on the under eyes and the Magic Cream which is super hydrating,” shares Culpo, who’s also a fan of using the Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray pre- and post-make-up to extend its longevity. In her handbag, Culpo packs the “Iconic Nude Lip Liner, Flawless Finish Setting Powder, always, an external charger and a little make-up puff.”

With her background in pageants and modelling, Culpo is no stranger to being in the spotlight. Preparing poses, understanding how your clothes fall on the body and taking photos at home beforehand will help to make you feel a little more comfortable in front of the cameras, according to her. “Just remember to have fun. At the end of the day, everybody looks more beautiful when they’re smiling and feeling good.”