Veteran Makeup Artists Have Moved on From Fashion Month — And We Get It

New York Fashion Week was once a highlight moment for industry-centered makeup artists and hairstylists alike. The season was a chance to work with top makeup brands and have your work published in "in-the-know" digital and print publications. However, as time has passed and social media developed, the desire for industry vets to be a part of NYFW dwindled.

Social media has provided us with access to go beyond the catwalk and showcase the behind-the-scenes preparations for a runway show. However, when it comes to NYFW specifically, the spotlight has somewhat dimmed. While iconic brands like MAC Cosmetics continue to dominate backstage and propel their key makeup artists to the forefront of the industry, many former insiders have forged their own paths by establishing their own brands. They have seized the opportunity to revolutionize the beauty scene beyond the confines of the runways and backstage areas of NYFW.

While there will always be a demand for MUVA Pat McGrath and Lancome's Sheika Daley to create those legendary, head-turning moments, veteran artists such as Katie Jane Hughes, Danessa Myricks and Mario Dedivanovic, who have founded their own brands, have chosen to shift their focus towards the celebrity clientele who attend the shows and events. Rather than getting caught up in the hustle and bustle of securing attention-grabbing backstage moments for fashion designers, they have embraced the chance to make their mark through their work with high-profile individuals.

@lancome.official Creating magic #bts at the Laquan Smith #NYFW show with Lancôme International Makeup Artist Sheika Daley (@Officialsheiks ) and her team. Recreate The Look Complexion achieved using Teint Idole Ultra Wear Care&Glow Foundation and the new Teint Idole Ultra Wear Care&Glow Serum Concealer. Eye look achieved using Idole Liner and Hypnose Drama Mascara. #Lancome #Makeup #NYFW #Backstage ♬ original sound - Lancôme

@patmcgrathreal DIVINE TRANSFORMATION at the #Schiaparelli Haute Couture Show by #danielroseberry today in #Paris with #makeupbypatmcgrath #teampatmcgrath ⚡️⚡️⚡️#makeup #parisfashionweek #patmcgrathlabs #fyp ♬ original sound - Pat McGrath Labs

While there is undeniable value in showcasing the flawless faces of today's "IT" girls like Zendaya, Lori Harvey, Hailey Bieber and the Hadid sisters, the emphasis now lies on capturing their street style moments rather than solely focusing on the standard IMG models.

Veterans like Laura Mercier, Bobbi Brown and Pat McGrath established successful careers in global fashion weeks, using them as springboards for their own brands and professional journeys. However, a new generation of trailblazing veterans such as Patrick Ta have carved out destinies that extend far beyond the fleeting 15 minutes of fame on the runway.

@patrickta Anything For My Favorite Lady @gigihadid ♬ Area Codes x Lollipop by L BEATS - DJ L BEATS

In 2023, industry-leading brands are making bold moves by investing heavily in A-listers, influencers, and community-driven initiatives — and it's paying off. That being said, the future of beauty brands for global fashion weeks may appear somewhat uncertain as the landscape between the industries continues to change drastically. However, one thing remains certain: the veterans will continue to rise above these challenges and forge ahead.

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