Recreating Adele’s “Hello” music video look is a bold makeup and hair statement that channels the singer’s iconic glossy curls, smoky depth, and cinematic red lipstick. This guide walks you through product choices, color placement, and finishing touches so your version feels polished rather than costume-like.
Use the table below to compare core styling elements and decide which details to emphasize for your recreation, from curl pattern to skin finish.
| Look Element | Key Detail | Product Type Suggestion | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hair Texture & Shape | Tight, glossy curls from roots to ends | Setting lotion, soft rollers, hooded dryer | Comb hair while wet for uniform curl clumps |
| Skin Finish | High-shine, almost wet-looking complexion | Illuminating primer, dewy foundation, setting spray | Focus glow on cheekbones, brow bone, and cupid’s bow |
| Eye Makeup | Smoky depth with softened lower lashline | Matte black or deep brown transition, black pencil liner | Blend upward toward crease to avoid harsh edges |
| Brows & Lashes | Full, brushed-up arch with intense curl | Brow pomade, waterproof mascara, lash curler | Set brows with clear gel for height and hold |
| Lips & Final Fix | Bold matte red with precise lining | Creamy liquid red, concealer cleanup, matte setting powder | Press lips together on tissue to reduce transfer |
Hair Curls and Set Technique
Rolling and Drying Process
Adele’s “Hello” look relies on uniform, glossy curls that frame the face. Achieve this by sectioning damp hair, applying a setting lotion, and using medium-hot rollers or a curling wand with a large barrel. Roll from ends to roots and secure firmly to encourage strong wave formation.
Brushing and Styling Tips
Once fully cool, brush curls gently downward with a paddle brush to create a polished, elongated bounce. Finish with a lightweight oil on the mid-lengths and ends to boost shine without weighing the hair down.
Makeup Base and Skin Glow
Base Selection and Application
Choose a full-coverage, dewy foundation that mimics a lit-from-within effect. Apply in thin layers with a dense buffing brush, focusing on smoothing the jawline and nose while keeping a luminous finish on the center of the face.
Highlight and Contour Placement
Add a subtle cream highlight on the high cheekbones, brow bone, and center of the forehead. Keep contour warm and minimal, blending carefully to maintain a seamless, radiant canvas for the rest of the look.
Eye Makeup and Brows
Eyeshadow Crease Work
Build a smoky crease using a matte deep brown or black shadow, concentrating pigment in the outer V and blending upward. Soften the edge with a clean transition shade to avoid harsh lines while preserving intensity.
Liner, Lashes, and Brow Shape
Tightline the upper waterline with a black pencil, extend a thin winged liner, and coat lashes with a waterproof mascara after curling. Define brows with a pomade, brushing them upward and setting with clear gel for maximum lift and hold.
Lips and Final Touches
Lip Lining and Color Choice
Trace your lips with a matching red lipliner to prevent feathering, then fill in with a creamy matte liquid red. Blot, apply a light dusting of translucent powder on a sponge, and reapply for a locked-in finish that resists fading.
Setting and Overall Check
Use a misting setting spray to merge makeup and hair into one cohesive look, then review under different lighting for even glow, curl definition, and precise lip edges.
Key Takeaways and Practice Plan
- Master wet-rolling or large-barrel curling for uniform, glossy curls
- Build a dewy base with strategic highlighter and subtle contour
- Combine soft smoky eyes with bold, precise red lips
- Set brows and hair carefully to preserve structure all day
- Practice liner wing and lip lining for a clean, camera-ready finish
FAQ
Reader questions
How do I keep my curls from falling flat throughout the day?
Set your curls in hot rollers or a hooded dryer until completely cool, use a strong-hold setting lotion, and avoid touching your hair to maintain lift at the roots.
Can I recreate this look with short hair?
Yes, focus on polished bangs, sleek sides, and a bold red lip to capture the essence while adapting the style to a shorter cut.
What if I have oily skin but want that glossy finish?
Use an oil-controlling primer on the T-zone, a dewy but lightweight foundation, and set only the perimeter of your face to keep shine where you want it.
How can I make the red lipstick stay perfect through meals?
Line and fill the lips with a matching pencil, apply a layer of liquid red, blot, then seal with a thin layer of translucent powder before stepping out.