Watch: go behind the scenes of the December issue cover shoot

By Holly O'Neill
03rd Dec 2019

Go behind the scenes of the December issue cover shoot.

We’re all about opulence when it comes to modern festive beauty. Think shimmering jewel tones, ornamental bronzes, deep greens and rich plums. All it takes to bring holiday beauty up a notch is a touch of gold, and hint of sparkle too, of course.

A touch of gold runs through the December issue beauty shoot created by make-up artist Ashley O’Connor; be it a wash on the eye or a hint on the cheeks, or as seen on the cover of the December issue of IMAGE, as a slight edge on the line of your lip.

Irish make-up artist Ashley O’Connor has assisted all the greats: Pat McGrath, Val Garland, Isamaya Ffrench, Linda Cantello and more. She has worked at every show from Balmain, Balenciaga, Chanel and Burberry to Louis Vuitton. “The secret to great Christmas make-up is all in the skin preparation! Use a hydrating sheet mask or cream mask before a night out to give your skin a good drink. This will plump up and hydrate your skin so foundation looks radiant during these winter months.”

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For the IMAGE December issue cover shoot, Ashley used the new Chanel holiday collection, Les Ornements de Chanel. While Gabrielle Chanel might be synonymous with a “less is more” approach, this season’s Chanel beauty collection is all about opulence and excess. “Layer your shades on top of each other to bring a different dimension to the eye,” says Zoe Taylor, Chanel Beauty ambassador. “Make-up is very ownable now – wear what’s most expressive for you.”

Go behind the scenes of the shoot in the video above.

The December issue cover shoot was photographed by Alex Hutchinson, assisted by Eoin Greally. Make-up by Ashley O’Connor using the CHANEL Holiday 2019 Collection: Les Ornements de Chanel. Hair by Roy Leigh. Nails by Kate O’Brien at Tropical Popical using CHANEL Le Vernis Nail Colours from the Holiday Collection 2019. Modelled by Li-Ann Smal at Morgan The Agency. Feature direction by Holly O’Neill.

Video by Jake Browne.