The Good Life: Q&A Nives Riddles

When Nives Riddles arrived in the U.S. from Croatia four years ago, she barely knew how to speak English. But she was blessed with innate artistic talent — her father is a sculptor — and fierce passion, and some part of her always knew she’d make it in the makeup biz. Today, the now-fluent and prettier-than-Portman pixie counts Bergdorf Goodman, Vogue and Matthew McConaughey among her past clients. You can be a client, too: Schedule a makeup session (from $50), or sign up for Nives’s new workshop series at Rescue. Click on to check out the tips she spilled for us.

When Nives Riddles arrived in the U.S. from Croatia four years ago, she barely knew how to speak English. But she was blessed with innate artistic talent — her father is a sculptor — and fierce passion, and some part of her always knew she’d make it in the makeup biz. Today, the now-fluent and prettier-than-Portman pixie counts Bergdorf Goodman, Vogue and Matthew McConaughey among her past clients. You can be a client, too: Schedule a makeup session (from $50), or sign up for Nives’s new workshop series at Rescue. Then check out the tips she spilled for us.

What are this summer’s big colors?
There are gorgeous purples — lavenders, plums, amethysts — that flatter every eye. Mix them with a brown shadow, to soften their edge.

If you want to look good at the beach but don’t want to gunk on too much makeup, what should you use?
All you need is Blinc Kiss Me liquid eyeliner and Blinc Kiss Me mascara — sweat won’t ruin either ($24 each at Rescue).

How can you keep sweat from spoiling your makeup at a fancy outdoor party?
This will sound nuts, but for a big event, I once sprayed my face with odorless, colorless antiperspirant! But please don’t make a habit of it — and test it before your event, to make sure you won’t have a bad reaction.

What’s the biggest mistake women make with their makeup?
They “touch up” by swooping their unwashed powder sponge down on already-set makeup — which only undoes their work. Remember: Pat your skin, invest in good brushes, and be gentle.

Okay, once and for all: Why are brushes so important?
You wouldn’t go painting a big wall with your bare hands or dirty sponges, would you? For something as delicate as your face, take the time to be precise and patient.

For more information, see nivesriddles.com or call Rescue Rittenhouse Spa Lounge at 215-772-2766.