Going into the 29th annual Critics Choice Awards, Maestro actor (and Vogue November cover star) Carey Mulligan has a confession: “I used to use make up as a bit of a mask or a shield because I didn’t like red carpets,” she exclusively tells Vogue. “But now, I’m a mother of three and I don’t feel that kind of fear. I actually take a lot of pleasure in very talented artists making me look nice!”
The talented artists who were on hand last night to prep Mulligan for the red carpet included makeup artist Nina Park, hairstylist Jenny Cho, and stylist Andrew Mukamal. “We’ve had so much fun finding a modern-day twist on Felicia’s wardrobe,” Mulligan says, referring to her Maestro character, Felicia Montealegre Bernstein. “We have been pulling references from the ’40s and ’50s for custom gowns.”
The homage to Felicia was reflected in the makeup, too. While Mulligan has a general rule of “the less that’s going on, the better,” Park shares that a deeper red lip like CHANEL 31 Le Rouge Satin Lipstick in Rouge Premier was something they were both excited about. “It’s about blending timeless elegance with a fresh twist,” she adds. “Red carpet makeup requires a balance between boldness and sophistication.”
Of course, Mulligan also has the cut of the moment—and for the night, she and Cho leaned into the classic Hollywood feel with a touch of modern sleekness.
“I always prioritize wearing clothes and make up that make me feel confident,” Mulligan says of the lesson she’s learned after years of walking the red carpet. “You will look best if you’re truly comfortable and if you love how you look.”
Photo: JJ Geiger