If the shoe fits ...

Neisha Henry. Photo / Babiche Martens

Shoes are a weakness for makeup artist Neisha Henry - she owns more than 100 pairs, and confesses this is the area of fashion where she really indulges. Makeup and beauty is another passion, as Henry works as the New Zealand brand manager for Smashbox Cosmetics. Previously she has worked for brands like Dior and Guerlain, joining the Smashbox team in 2005. Her job often requires her to jetset to the Smashbox Studios in Los Angeles, for product launches and training - when she visited in March earlier this year, Henry met Mary J. Blige, and she always makes a point of visiting her favourite shoe stores while there. Her best fashion advice? "Spend on shoes, bags and tailored coats, then bargain hunt for everything else."

Who are your favourite designers?

Marc Jacobs, Chloe, John Galliano, Sabine, World and Stolen Girlfriends Club.

What was the last item of clothing you bought?

Reebok High Tops.

Best fashion bargain?

My bright yellow Karen Millen wedges, they were a steal at $100!

Who does the best shoes?

This is a tough one for me as this is where I indulge; I own over 100 pairs of shoes. Aldo and Steve Madden stores are always on my hit list to visit when in LA. Both do such a broad range of diverse styles each season.

The best jeans?

Easy, I love Nobody jeans - pure comfort.

What's the one thing everyone should have in their wardrobe?

A great leather jacket in a gorgeous, soft leather that moulds to your body.

What do you really want this coming season?

A new pair of hot winter boots!

What do you wear to work?

Black, black and more black! We don't have a uniform as such, but require anybody that works for the brand to wear black. It's the perfect shade on 99 per cent of people and can look really fresh and smart on everyone. Not to mention it's the most flattering colour.

What is your beauty routine?

As a makeup artist this is my favorite question. My morning ritual begins with Murad Energizing Pomegranate Moisturizer with an SPF 15, next I apply the famous Smashbox Photo Finish Foundation Primer and finish with a fresh base of foundation, before I contour and highlight cheekbones. I am all about the eyes, so I always wear eye shadow, eyeliner and lashings of mascara. To finish, I add a pop of color to the apples of my cheeks. I am usually a nude lip colour girl but it depends on my mood and outfit on the day.

Is there anything you think the fashion police should ban?

Bubble Skirts. Grrrr.

Your best beauty tip?

Invest in professional makeup brushes - artists cannot create their best work with fingertips. I also treat myself to fortnightly visits to Caci Medispa for a 30-minute Microdermabrasion. Totally rejuvenates the skin leaving it silky smooth.

The one rule you always dress by?

Always dress for your body shape. Don't just dress for what trends are in fashion at the time. Accessories are an easy way to update my look seasonally. I love scarves, hats, belts, jewellery and hosiery. Layering clothing is another favourite trick of mine.

Best sartorial advice to pass down to your own daughter/son?

Shop wisely. If you cannot imagine yourself feeling amazing wearing that outfit in front of your girlfriends, boyfriend or workmates - don't buy it!

What can't you live without?

Smashbox Photo Op Under Eye Brightener. As I travel a lot this is my lifesaver, it hides dark circles, fine lines and wakes skin up with loads of skin-boosting vitamins. It actually contains red wine extract - great to offset the effects of too many glasses of wine the night before!

Most stylish city?

Hong Kong. I think the city is full of individuality and people who truly do think outside the square. They love to be different and really push the boundaries in so many ways from fashion to amazing architecture and cuisine.