Talk about a big week. First, the celebrity makeup artist and founder of Charlotte Tilbury Beauty was the official sponsor of the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, painting the angel faces of Elsa Hosk, Kendall Jenner, Bella Hadid and the like. And today, she received her MBE from Her Majesty, The Queen at Buckingham Palace “for services to the beauty and cosmetics industry.”

For Tilbury, a queen in her own right (of the beauty variety), it was a profound and powerful moment in a very decorated life. “Today has been one of the most magical days of my life. I am so delighted and thrilled to receive this honour, especially from Her Majesty, the Queen who has been an endless source of inspiration to me!” A true monarchist, Tilbury was so inspired by Her Majesty she even indulged in a little brand royal fanfare, naming not one, but two lipsticks after Her – The Queen and Legendary Queen, not to mention a Royal Lipstick Trio (because who doesn’t love a little Lizzie on their lips?)

For the makeup mogul, “she is not only an icon of this country, but of the world. To be recognised for my contribution to the beauty industry is a dream come true! I want to thank all of my supportive family, my wonderful friends, my dream team, and my inspirational industry peers who have supported me along the way! Thank you to EVERYONE who has helped me realise my dream of sharing the confidence-boosting powers of makeup magic with the world.”

With a career spanning almost three decades, the British entrepreneur is one of the most influential makeup artists of her generation, carving a unique brand of beauty with sass, spunk and and true creative genius. A true visionary, she has been a trailblazer in the industry and the go-to makeup artist for the likes of Nicole Kidman, Penelope Cruz and Kate Moss (she even did Moss’s wedding makeup).

She is also resolute in empowering her “darlings” – an affection term for her fans. Charlotte Tilbury has had a remarkable effect on the way women across the world perceive themselves through the use and “power” of makeup, and she has been responsible for the creation of countless iconic beauty styles and trends. For Charlotte, makeup is about enhancing natural beauty, and she believes passionately in empowering and helping women (and men) to feel their most confident, best selves every day: “Give everyone the right makeup and they can conquer the world…”

With over 100 magazine covers, over 400 editorial and advertising campaigns, numerous awards and personal accolades, her sovereign status is a worthy one. She has built a female-led brand which is widely acknowledged as one of the most successful independent beauty brands globally and one of the fastest growing beauty brands on record, which has also garnered over 180 awards globally. Plus on a personal level (and through the brand), Charlotte is very committed to supporting female-focused charities including Women for Women International for whom she is also a global Ambassador, and the Lady Garden Campaign – hers is a contribution which extends far beyond beauty.

But one question remains: What was Charlotte’s makeup look for Her Majesty? “Stars in Your Eyes palette in Happy Eyes, Hollywood Flawless Filter, Pillow Talk Lip Liner & Lipstick, Full Fat Lashes, Magic Away Concealer, Hollywood Contour Wand & Beauty Light Wand.” Beauty fit for a Queen, indeed.