How to Become a New York Fashion Week Makeup Artist

What does it take to become a NYFW makeup artist? What do you need to know to work the hottest runway fashion show in the world getting the chance to create one of a kind makeup looks that accompany the worlds most sought after designs by today’s hottest fashion designers?

Have you ever wanted to be a New York Fashion Week Makeup Artist but have no idea how to get there and what it takes to be invited?

Meet Keisha Garrett our spotlight makeup artist who just returned from New York Fashion Week Couture Fashion Show 2017 and get to know how she became a #NYFW makeup artist in our exclusive interview with her.

Interviewer: “How did you land a spot at New York Fashion Week as a makeup artist?”

Keisha:  “This is the dream of so many makeup artists and for me getting invited to New York Fashion Week was a once in a lifetime experience and I was honored to be chosen by Voodoo Makeup to work with them for Couture Fashion Week at New York Fashion Week this year.”

Interviewer: “How did you get invited to NYFW this year?”

Keisha: “Getting invited happens when you get your makeup artistry education, work hard at your craft, and collaborate with others to become recognized in the industry as a makeup artist who is willing to work hard, is reliable, and as an artist who can create the looks the designers want. Getting invited happened because I have spent the last few years collaborating with the right people in the industry.”

Interviewer: “What steps did you have to take to get into the show?”

Keisha: “I was referred by a friend in the industry to the makeup team running the makeup artists this year for Voodoo Makeup, they checked my out my makeup portfolio and my references and then I was asked to apply.  Once my application was accepted I was emailed that I had been chosen as one of their makeup artists, it all happened very fast.”

Interviewer: “Can you tell us about your experience?”

Keisha: “All I can say is come prepared to work! So many makeup artists think NYFW is all about glitz and glamour but the truth is behind the scenes there are hundreds of people working very hard and very fast to make NYFW look flawless once the models hit the catwalk. There is nothing glamorous behind the scenes but the thrill is getting to see your finished product in the photos shot of your model walking down the runway and you know she is perfect in the makeup you have applied.”

Interviewer: “What was your favorite part about NYFW and working as a makeup artist for Couture Fashion Week?”

Keisha: “My first glass of wine when I finally finished on day one” she laughed, “no really it is was fabulous getting the chance to experience working in a face paced environment with so many talented models, makeup artists and of course the fashion designers. I was even lucky enough to meet Veronika Kopalova the designer whose collection I did makeup for on the model Joi Simone’ who wore one of her creations. It was a thrilling experience!”

Interviewer: “Will you be going back next year to New York Fashion Week?”

Keisha: “Absolutely!”

Interviewer: “What is your advice to other aspiring NYFW makeup artists?”

Keisha: “Get the best makeup education you can, I have my Master Makeup Artistry Certificate from the School of Makeup Artistry. Then make sure you practice your craft and collaborate with as many makeup pros, makeup companies, models, photographers and anyone associated with the fashion industry. It will be up to you to get in the door of the fashion shows and that only happens when you reach far out of your comfort zone, utilize your industry relationships, and believe that you are the best at what you do. Then be prepared to work hard for what you want!”

Interviewer: “We heard you not only attended NYFW this year but that you also published a book in 2017?”

Keisha: “I did publish a book this year called DIY Bridal Makeup and I’m thrilled about where my makeup career and photography career have taken me. I could never have accomplished so much in 2017 without support from my family, friends and everyone who I have built relationships with over the past few year. I have to say 2017 was an amazing year and my plans for 2018 are already starting to take shape, I have another book in the works, a large one day event where I will be teaching alongside my business partner and at least two more fashion shows to attend.”

Interviewer: “We wish you all the best.”

Keisha: “Thank you, I’m thrilled to be featured on your Beauty Buzz blog.”

We wish you all the best Keisha and look forward to all your upcoming makeup successes in 2018.

Keisha Garrett is a Makeup Artist/Author/Photographer from Richmond Virginia you can find her on Instagram at kg_mua_