At 67, Andie MacDowell remains an enduring icon of Hollywood glamour and natural beauty. Known for her roles in Four Weddings and a Funeral and numerous fashion campaigns, MacDowell recently spoke with us virtually from the Cannes Film Festival about her refreshingly simple approach to beauty and ageing. Her glowing skin and carefree salt-and-pepper curls reflect a woman who embraces both time and self-acceptance. Wearing minimal makeup—just a smudge of eyeliner and a rosy blush that mimics the flush of fresh air—MacDowell’s look is effortless yet elegant. Her appearance on the Cannes red carpet in a tailored black tuxedo suit demonstrated a commanding presence that is as powerful as it is graceful. But it’s her hair and skin care philosophy that truly capture her essence: a commitment to authenticity and comfort over chasing unrealistic ideals.
A simple beauty routine rooted in authenticity
MacDowell’s signature look includes her famously grown-out grey curls, a “power move” she embraced during the pandemic. “Growing out my greys is how I feel I look good, and I feel comfortable,” she shared, her Southern accent softening the words. “I was pleasantly surprised by the love and support I received. It was something I wanted to do.” While sometimes styling her hair down for special occasions, she often sweeps it back into a low bun to reveal more of her face—showcasing confidence and simplicity.
Her skincare routine reflects a practical mindset: she’s “big into moisturising” and religious about sun protection, living by the beach and applying sunblock every morning and evening. Her favourites include the Age Perfect Serum Le Duo and Revitalift Clinical SPF50+ Invisible UV Fluid from L’Oréal Paris. MacDowell admits to keeping her regimen straightforward because she stays busy with classes, walking her dogs, and working. “I don’t fuss over a complicated regime,” she says. “I do my skincare and a little make-up before I leave the house, then just enjoy my life and let the beauty radiate from the inside.”
This philosophy—where beauty is enhancing but not consuming—has helped MacDowell maintain an enduring appeal. When asked about societal pressures to chase youth, she acknowledges that environments like Cannes can make her more aware of such expectations. Yet, at home, she dismisses the notion of constantly striving to appear young. “It’s impossible! I like dressing well and feeling good, but then I get on with my day.”
Embracing ageing and body confidence
MacDowell lives in a vibrant community on the South Carolina coast, surrounded by women her age who lead active, fulfilling lives. “We’re way too busy,” she laughs. Exercise plays a big role—yoga, walking, sports—and the focus is on taking care of oneself rather than chasing unrealistic beauty standards. “The things you really need to think about are bone density and overall health,” she explains. “It’s not frivolous to want to be the best version of yourself at your age.”
Reflecting on her younger self, MacDowell admits she once disliked her athletic legs, a feature she now proudly shows off. “My legs were so great and I didn’t like them because they were athletic,” she confesses. She’s also learned to appreciate her arms, despite society’s fixation on “ageing arms.” “When you age, your skin changes,” she says thoughtfully. “In 10 years, you’ll look back and realize those arms were fabulous.”
This insight guides the advice she gives her daughters, Rainey and Margaret Qualley. Encouraging them to embrace their bodies, she tells them to wear short dresses and shorts with confidence. “Even though my legs aren’t perfect anymore, I now wear short shorts—because I know better. I wouldn’t have done that in my 30s. What a waste of time.”
Having fun with makeup and championing women in film
MacDowell enjoys experimenting with makeup, recently favoring purple eyeshadow to highlight her green eyes. “If I’m doing my own makeup, I like either a light eye with a dark lip or a rock-and-roll eye with a natural lip,” she shares. One of her beauty essentials is Lumi Glotion by L’Oréal Paris, a highlighting liquid that adds a natural glow without heavy foundation. “I use it on my cheeks and then head to the beach. I’m using it here at Cannes too.”
Beyond beauty, MacDowell is passionate about advancing women in the film industry. She participates in the Lights on Women’s Worth Award, which celebrates and supports female creatives in cinema. “Women have been repressed and diminished intellectually and creatively for years,” she states firmly. “We have so much to offer and deserve to be equal partners. We need more women directing films to bring their unique perspectives.”
A radiant outlook on life and beauty
As our conversation draws to a close, MacDowell reflects on what makes her feel beautiful. “Healthy, glowy skin, a little eyebrow grooming, some lipstick, a fun dress, and cute shoes,” she says with a smile. “I love going out for dinner, having a glass of Prosecco, and enjoying good, intelligent, loving conversation. That’s what makes me feel beautiful.”
In a world obsessed with youth and perfection, Andie MacDowell’s refreshing attitude offers a powerful reminder: true beauty is about embracing yourself fully, ageing with grace, and living life with joy and confidence.
