Interview: Clayton Leslie, make-up artist of Maybelline

The lights turn off and spotlights on. Music starts playing as the models stride down the catwalk in the rhythm of strong bass sounds. We see new looks and original designs pulled together by beautiful hair and perfect make-up. It’s an eye candy that lasts for a while, and then it’s gone: the runway is empty and the showpieces have disappeared behind the scenes.

 Even though the catwalk shows get all the attention, they are only a fragment of what is going on around fashion collections. Backstage, there is a whole new world that is the power behind the shows. You’ll find tens of models sitting on chairs in front of mirrors, having hairdressers fussing around and somebody putting more make-up on them. This is where the people who are not seen on the catwalk come in; people like Leslie Clayton, the beholder of the power of lipstick, eye-liner and mascara.

Clayton Leslie is the official make-up artist of Fashion Week. While hanging out in the backstage area between the shows, he had time to tell us about his work.

“In addition to fashion shows, I work for magazines. I also give lessons for make-up courses.”

What kind of style do you have as a make-up artist?

“I have two styles: one is very natural and the other one more extravagant. Sometimes, it’s difficult to find a balance between them.”

Do you follow trends?

“I do follow the trends to a certain point, but when working for designers, their style is more important than trends.”

What about the collaboration? Isn’t it difficult to find the right way to go and compromise, when both you and the designers have your own visions?

“Well, I always discuss about the concept together with the designers. Sometimes, I disagree with them, but we have to find a solution that pleases both of us. You know, in the end it’s the concept that is the most important thing. I also do research before hands about the designers in order to find out as much as possible about them.”

 

 

 

Comments

[Airbrush Makeup]

Makeup can make and break your look at the same time coz many makeup artists claim to be having ample expertise but when they give you a look as per their style you feel a destroyed image. I feel all of us follow style but the extent to which we follow differs.