5 questions with Lily Collins

SINGAPORE — Some of you may know her as the daughter of musician Phil Collins. But we think Lily Collins has quickly made a name for herself acting in films like The Blind Side, Mirror Mirror and The English Teacher.

The 24-year-old is also the latest ambassador of French luxury cosmetics house Lancome. “I like to think that they saw this inner joy in me and the continuity of my look: The idea of classic chic, no matter what I’m wearing or where I am,” she said.

Classic and chic? It’s no wonder she adores Audrey Hepburn, whom some say she also resembles.

“It wasn’t until someone made a comment one day that I realised I looked like her. I’ve always been inspired by her films — Funny Face and Sabrina are my favourites — and admire her humanitarian commitment to charities. In her films, her smile and her eyes said it all. She could convey strong emotions without even opening her mouth. For an actress, being able to express something without talking is the most powerful thing you can do.

“And she was so elegant ... I’ve always been rather fascinated by her personality, her character. Of course, she’s sublime and iconic and I’m very honoured to be compared to her, but I am in no way trying to be the next Audrey Hepburn. At any rate, no one can be the next Audrey Hepburn!”

Q: What is the best beauty tip you have ever received?

A: My mother always told me that it’s the odd little things that make you different and allow you to stand out. I think it’s all based on this. Keeping this in mind really helps you to be more at ease. And during the shooting of Mirror Mirror, my make-up artist never stopped telling me to stay out of the sun. I followed what she said.

Q: What can we find in your handbag?

A: I love big handbags, but the problem is that you put so many things inside! In short, I always have my phone, earphones, wallet, lip balm, a tube of hand cream, a hand sanitiser, a bottle of stevia (a natural sweetener) for my tea, mints, a notepad and a pencil (habits from being a journalist), my compact powder and a small concealer stick.

Q: What about when you travel?

A: I love having everything with me, just in case. But with press tours, I’ve learned to be very efficient. I’m sure that I’ll be a great mum, because I always have everything at hand. I bring teabags and lots of lipstick colours with me ... I like being able to choose, so I take my time when I pack. When it’s a long trip, I start packing two days ahead.

Q: Any beauty rituals before a red carpet event?

A: I love the days right before these kinds of events. In Los Angeles, I have a make-up artist and a hairstylist whom I really love. They come to my house with my stylist and we turn the music up loud. We take the time to have lunch together, decide on a look and get me ready. Since I apply my make-up really quickly every day, I love taking the time and creating a completely new look for this kind of occasion.

Q: What’s your favourite red carpet look then?

A: I always keep my skin natural. Self-tanners are not for me. Sometimes I apply some white on my inner eyelid rim to make my eyes stand out. I always put lots of mascara on. Then, I either focus on my lips or my eyes. The make-up depends on the clothing.ZHANG WEIFANG