How do the make-up artists and hair stylists interpret Karen Walker’s vision to carry through a beauty story that complements the collection at hand? I was about to find out backstage from the talented artists at New York Fashion Week…
For as long as I can remember, a personal professional goal of mine has been to attend a Karen Walker runway show.
I have always held Karen Walker in such high esteem for her ability to coordinate and produce collections that look so effortlessly chic, and balance all elements perfectly. I have always been especially envious of the way she creates a strong feminine look with a masculine influence. It is insanely gorgeous, and has this manifestation of confidence and strength that is particularly captivating.
What I have always questioned is; how do the make-up artists and hair stylists interpret Karen Walker’s vision to carry through a beauty story that complements the collection at hand? I was about to find out backstage from the talented team firsthand.
Below: Hair backstage.
I was fortunate enough to speak with Jenna Menard, Clinique’s Global Colour Artist, and Director of Makeup for Karen Walker’s show who shed light on the way we can interpret make-up to balance out a masculine-feminine look.
Jenna shared that is is all about the base; getting a really beautiful, pretty and solid foundation on which to build. I’m going to be honest, this process is not a straight-forward one if you do not have naturally clear and clean skin.
I can speak from experience, as I have battled the blemish for as long as I can remember with my combination skin. But finally I am on a skin regime that works for me, that I can manage my skin and minimise breakouts and blemishes. Having clean, clear skin is vital in achieving a beautiful complete make-up look – so take the time to cover your bases and get your personal skincare issues sorted.
Jenna went on to explain that in order to best balance out a masculine-femme beauty style, you want to pay extra attention to your brows and cheek bones; really highlighting and accentuating these features.
Strong cheekbones echo a masculine jawline, and strong brows really frame the face to give additional definition and edge to an already beautiful and feminine fresh skin base.
From there add natural light gloss, mascara, and you’re ready to work a perfectly balanced beauty look.
Words and photos, Melissa Chrisp 15 February 2012
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