Michelle Obama—fashion icon, beauty inspiration, and all-around hero to all—shone during the 2021 inauguration, thanks to her bouncy curls, gorgeous purple outfit, and chic smokey eye. To get an inside look at the former First Lady's beauty routine, look no further than her makeup artist, Carl Ray. Below, he breaks down the products he used on Obama, as well as his inspiration for her look.
MC: How was Michelle's skin prepped prior to the makeup?
CR: The former First Lady already has amazing skin and takes care of it, so it's easy and not much prep on my end. She is ready to go and I start directly with makeup application, which makes my job a lot easier!
MC: What was the inspiration for the makeup look for the inauguration?
CR: My inspiration was one of strength and confidence. Yesterday was a moment in history not only for America, but for women everywhere. I really wanted to honor that in the look I gave her, but also celebrate the day. I wanted an impactful smoky eye for the event. I was going for a dramatic glam eye that would really play well to the camera. For TV, we really need to make things a little more dramatic so her eyes shine.
MC: How do face masks affect the makeup look you did for Michelle?
CR: The mask allowed me to get creative with this look and really play up the features that I knew were going to be visible. I really focused on making her brows, eyes, and lashes pop. For underneath the mask, I recommend a stain or matte lip so it wont smudge.
Shop Michelle's Inauguration Beauty Look
![Illuminator Liquid Highlight [variation_tag_finish:Radiant]](https://cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net/5rFz3WGt5pB24d5ybAi4YR-1920-80.jpg.webp)
-
James Middleton Reveals Middleton Family "Prerequisite" Prince William Met Before Marrying KatePrincess Kate's little brother opened up about one of his brother-in-law's personality traits.
-
The Ingenious "Hack" Kate Middleton Uses to Avoid Answering Questions"I just looked at Princess Kate at one point, and I said, 'This must be exhausting.'"
-
I've Traveled Alone for 20 Years—These Are the Best Destinations for Women Traveling SoloFrom an island paradise to a once out-of-bounds region.
-
Jenna Ortega Does Grungy Glam Right With '90s-Inspired Hair and MakeupThe actress was spotted in peak ‘90s-inspired glam.
-
How a Beauty Writer Has Perfected Her Morning Routine For Acne-Prone SkinKeep the texture and irritation at bay with these editor-vetted items.
-
Selena Gomez Hosts a Master Class in Matching Your Red Blush and Red Lipstick to Your OutfitThe star was spotted looking red hot in the streets of New York City.
-
Everything You Need to Know About Marie Claire’s Skin and Hair AwardsCould your brand survive an editor testing session?
-
Presenting, Perfect Date Night Makeup for People Who Hate MakeupFrom a beauty director who's learned all the workarounds.
-
Michelle Obama’s Edgy Braided Mohawk Feels So ‘90s-CodedShe's reviving this quintessential '90s style.
-
I Scoured Ulta’s 21 Days of Beauty Sale for Five Hours—Here's What I'm ShoppingAdd to cart, ASAP.
-
Michelle Obama's Boho-Chic Crown Braid Revives the Yeehaw AgendaThe former First Lady brought cowgirl glam to a live taping of her podcast at South by Southwest festival.
