Following a makeup artist at fashion week is really interesting – it provides a whole new perspective to the chaos backstage and how a show is actually put together. I was lucky enough to follow renowned Australian makeup artist Nadine Monley, at two shows on day three of fashion week.
Our first show, Katama (an all-male model cast much to my delight) was to kick off at 9am of which we arrived close to 6am. For Nadine, this show wasn’t so much about the make up as it was the tan. As well as makeup artistry, Nadine also has her own business, Beauty Department; whereby she sells her own line of gradual tanners, one for both males and females.
So for the most part, the morning involved asking the boys to strip off (yes, I know what you’re thinking – lucky me) and show us their pins (or abs). Purely because, the day before Nadine had applied the first layer, so it was more about touching up wherever needed and to cover up any discolouration’s or imperfections. Most of which were incurred between the time of the casting and the show. We met one guy who turned up with numerous cuts and bruises, so it was an all hands on deck situation with the concealer, foundation and bronzer all in full effect.
Generally speaking, the team of makeup artists on a show is based on what brand is sponsoring (ie. MAC or Maybelline) and the individuals they hand pick to represent them. However, for both Nadine’s shows, although there were sponsors on board, she was approached by the designers directly.
Typically known for her abilities to create a flawless, no makeup/makeup look, where the models own natural beauty shines from within – when working with the right people and given the right opportunity, Nadine loves to push the limits.
So when Gary Bigeni approached her and described the shows vibe as 1990’s New York, where the girls are effortless, elegant and confident; a mix of Sex & The City and Kate Moss, Nadine jumped at the chance.
This time honing in on the lashes.
As usual, when the first model walks in it’s a bit of a fight between hair and makeup as to who gets who first. Lucky for us, two models closely followed so we were able to get started fairly well on time.
Gathering the team to explain how to apply the look; where to pull back and where to add more, Nadine instructed them to “rub it into the skin, not onto the skin” as they want the girls to appear as natural as possible.
To create the lashes, Nadine applied a paste she created using a mixing medium and white pigment powder. This was layered on as the day progressed for an even fuller effect, something which was further enhanced by the rose balm added to the lips.
All in all, the day was pretty successful. With Nadine remaining calm the entire time and the mad rush at the end not as hectic as one would expect, I managed to pick her brains throughout without being yelled at by anybody so I mean, I was happy.
Imagery: Anthony Gattari | @anthonygattari_photography
