Red carpet moments live forever, and Billy B. gives the inside scoop on creating a timeless look on Gabrielle Union for the Bad Boys II movie premiere.	October 1, 2003 American Salon
	Hollywood movie premieres are not only for debuting the latest movies but also for introducing new looks. It seems as though the public can't get enough. Television shows like Access Hollywood and Entertainment Tonight and magazines like In Style, People, and US Weekly are constantly reporting on who was there, what they wore, and, of course, all the details of their hair and makeup. But for an actress and her team of image makers, the crimson catwalk is exciting albeit stressful. And when it comes to an up-and-coming actress, there's even more pressure when creating a red-carpet look. Let's face it: The experience is a time to shine for any actress, but with young starlets it's particularly important. They are in the beginning phase of creating their images, and every click of the camera provides an opportunity for publicity. And while the actress in question focuses on smiling at the camera and not tripping in her high heels, those of us in the background are making sure we don't "trip up" on the look. Paparazzi pictures don't lie, and there is a chance they won't be retouched once they make it into the hands of the magazine editors. One day they may be like the black-and-white vintage photos of stars like Audrey Hepburn and Joan Crawford that we look at today for inspiration.
	I had the pleasure of doing the makeup for an exciting and beautiful actress named Gabrielle Union, who is quickly making a big name for herself in Hollywood. She was most recently in the number-one box office blockbuster Bad Boys II. Her style is classic with a modern edge. For the film's red carpet premiere, I chose a fresh, dewy yet sexy look that really let her natural beauty shine through using MAC makeup in shades that complemented her caramel skin. I did smoky brown tones on her eyelids, lined them in black, and added an apricot sheen blush with gold highlights placed high on the cheekbones to reflect light and add life. If I do say so myself, Ms. Union was the real hit!