We have a board for that!  Check us out on Pinterest

Life has its ups and downs, and as each day goes by, the more I realize that the journey itself can be a beautiful thing. I'm realizing that having material things won't make me happier or feel more beautiful if I don't truly believe I am, underneath it all.

This is where "make skin your best accessory" comes from. It has to do with being proud of who you are and celebrating and embracing every ounce of your being.

We teamed up with 4 brilliant women. They’re all so kind, passionate, wise, hilarious and boss ladies of their own life and careers. We've asked them to share their experiences and tips on improving ourselves by simply believing and becoming comfortable in our own skin.

Madison Schill
Writer, Model, Creator of Su La Po
Meta-Physics Student 
AP @straightcurvefilm
@schillian @su.la.po

FB: You have such a powerful story, and its something that has stuck with us. Through your journey of ups and downs, how did you push yourself through moments where you felt completely discouraged?

MS: I think the push comes in realizing that some rejections are truly out of my control, and have no basis on defining who I am as a person. Inversely, I must accept that my triumphs should not affect my self-worth too, and this allows me to embark on the lifelong process of learning to love and understand myself and my worth as an independent entity. An independent entity, of course, who can place herself in situations and absorb experiences and ideas. I guess you could say I’ve learned to be a sponge, but a sponge who turns the “bacteria” of life into something valuable, something relatively non-toxic. Also, I’m grateful for the deep sense of empathy my experiences have cultivated - each person I meet has a lesson to teach me, and without my ups and downs, I don’t believe I’d have the malleability of perspective I do today. It was almost a survival tool, my choice to begin understanding and relating to others. When we get out of our heads and understand that every thought we have had has, in some way, already been felt by those before us, we are reminded of our humanity, and the unity present in that claim.

FB: What advice would you give models who are starting out?

MS: To define your limits early on, and stick to them. It is important and wonderful to strive to make others happy, but when this begins to eat away at your own joy, know that it’s okay to say no. And, also - who's to say what is or isn’t beautiful? Surely not one person out of 7 billion - don’t let subjective judgements dull your spark.

FB: What does "create your own beauty statement" mean to you?

MS: To me, this means that I have given myself the permission to call myself beautiful based on no conditionals or “if-then” statements. No diets, suppression, or unauthentic acts makes me more beautiful than my true, holistic identity does when it is given the space to simply be. Also, this represents something I have discovered rather recently; that beauty is in what you love, not who loves you. It lives in every act, every thought, and every dream you attempt to understand and tackle, even in your moments of purest solitude. Your beauty never leaves you if you understand, and embrace, who you are.

FB: You have a lot of projects on-the-go, what's next for you?

MS: Oh, gosh!! I’ve currently signed back on with my very first agency, Plutino group, in an effort to practice what I preach a little bit more, and to help open up the landscape of beauty in Canada. I’m working on producing some exciting photo shoots in New York and London, and am writing quite a bit. It’s my final year of metaphysics at the University of Toronto - this evening, I’m tackling an essay about the evolution of artificial intelligence technologies. On a macro level, I have my sights set on working in fashion wholly when I graduate in a few months (how crazy that I can say this now!). I’ve been practising handling rejection for a few years now, so I’m confident that when the time comes, I will be able to dive in, take my circumstances in stride, and not shy away from wanting to make this industry a better place for young girls. That said, I’m thinking of making a blog again, tackling the real gritty bits of fashion with a friendly, educated, sister-like edge. We’ll see. I’m also working on a fashion documentary, Straight/Curve Film, which will debut in New York this spring. Check it out!

Christine Jairamsingh
PRO MUA & Hair Artist, RHN
Green MUA for The Detox Market
@christinejair

FB: What advice would you give a makeup artist who is just starting out in their career? (aside from: practice, practice, practice)

CJ: Be aware of the field you want to work in. Makeup can be a part of so many different industries, like tv, film, weddings, commercials and fashion. Pinpoint where you want to be involved and educate yourself on how the industry works. Don't be afraid to get in touch with someone you admire who's in a position you'd like to eventually find yourself in. There's no harm in asking for advice from an insider's perspective. The worst thing that can happen is that they won't respond, but it doesn't hurt to try! Hearing personal experiences can be valuable when deciding how to approach your own path.

Be patient. Know that as long as you are working at your craft that you are moving forward towards your goal. It isn't always a straight, clear path. It's ok to dabble in different areas, find out what you like and dislike, and reroute. There are no overnight successes in the makeup world. Not a single one!

Try not to compare your work to others. It's easier said than done, but know that everyone has a different style and approach, and that's what makes you desirable to potential clients. Strive to be inspired by your peers and supportive of their success because everyone's journey is different and unique.

Lastly, keep a clean and organized kit! This can't be stressed enough. I've heard many horror stories from models about dirty brushes, bacterial infections, and reactions. You would never, ever want that to be traced back to you.

FB: What advice would you give to someone who wants clear skin (from a makeup and nutritional perspective)?

CJ: From a nutritional perspective, I believe that clear skin is a result of healthy digestion, liver/hormonal health, and adequate hydration. Also, being aware of any sensitivities/allergies is important. I often see food sensitivities showing up in people's complexion. Make sure to eat leafy greens, healthy fats and drink lots of alkaline water.

I believe skin care is the most vital step in any makeup regimen, and lots of hydration is important for everyone (even those with combination/oily skin). Breakouts can sometimes be a result of irritation as a result of dehydration in the skin. Also, being adequately hydrated (both internally and topically) can increase the chances of healing spots once breakouts disappear.

As for makeup, less is more. Even if your goal is to have full coverage, it doesn't necessarily require a full coverage foundation. Using a foundation with medium buildable coverage to even out redness and general tone, followed by a good concealer under the eyes and where needed, with a setting powder will give you great coverage but look more like skin as opposed to a mask.

FB: Is there anyone or anything that inspires your creative vision?

CJ: I find a lot of inspiration in faces, subculture, iconography, textiles, and architecture. Where ever I go, I'm always observing and taking it all in.

FB: What does "create your own beauty statement" mean to you?

CJ: Do what you want. There are no rules for how you should look or how you should live. Trust your intuition and express yourself freely. There's beauty in how you choose to live.

Mandy Macfadden
Editorial & Award winning Hairstylist
Owner of Salon Decorum and Pureology Brand Ambassador 
@mandy_macfadden  @salondecorum

FB: How did you get started in hair artistry?

MM: When something is meant to be it just happens. I never really though much about hair until my stylist saw something in me a took a chance. I can't imagine my life doing anything else.

FB: What inspires your creative vision for hair styling and colouring at shows for everyday clients?

MM: Inspiration is everywhere we just need to open our eyes and hearts. Each season I seem to draw inspiration from somewhere new (currently travel has inspired me) however one thing never changes, the core of my inspiration always comes from the runways in Paris. I love the combination of high fashion and lifestyle.

FB:What advice would you give to someone starting out on their own?

MM:  Sometimes you just need to jump and go for it. A dream is only a thought unless you work hard to make it your reality.

FB: What does "create your own beauty statement" mean to you?

MM: Live what you love, and love what you live. Be true to yourself and own it!!!

Allysandra Cervantes
Fashion Photographer
@allysandracervantes

FB: How did you get into photography?

AC: I have always really enjoyed photography, at first it was more of a hobby that slowly became something more. I was always interested in fashion at first, wanting to become a fashion designer. However, photography became another outlet to be involved in the industry and haven't looked back since.

FB: How do you capture the essence of someone's beauty and emotions through
the lens, especially when someone is camera-shy and/or has low self-confidence?

AC: The best way to capture the essence of someone's beauty and emotion is to really get to know that individual, speak with them, share stories, laugh, and just have fun. Then their real self truly shines through when taking a photo. A connection is made and everything becomes more organic.

FB: What's your beauty ritual?

AC: I start off my morning with my Carisonic and a deep cleansing wash, I apply my Florés Boticario Prêt-à-Repair cream, let it soak in and then apply my Florés Boticario No.6 Beauty Primer, a touch of foundation, some mascara and lip balm. Simple and Natural.

FB: What does "create your own beauty statement" mean to you?

AC: Create Your Own Beauty Statement to me means, be yourself, be unique, be spontaneous, and don't feel limited. Be all you can be.

(Photo credit: Lucy Garland)

Lucy Garland is one bad ass artist. I’ve been following her drag inspired tutorials for 8 months now and she never fails to blow me away! So, it’s only natural (Haha) that I’ve been giddy ever since we knew about this collaboration. Do you blame me? I mean, seriously. We love her for her talent, her passion, her honesty, her open-mindedness, and she is without a doubt bringing inspiration and confidence to a whole new level. 

We chose Lucy for this project because I feel as if we can all relate to her passion. I see myself in her readiness and willingness to share her knowledge with others. She’s made me realize how important it is to be confident and comfortable with your own style and what you create as long it makes you happy.

During my teen years, western beauty was pigeon holed into something that wasn’t relatable to those who didn’t fit the bill (such as myself) and luckily today, people are starting to understand that beauty is transcendent. Beauty is not defined by colour, race, age, size or gender; beauty just IS, and her work speaks to me as if she knows all about it- Lucy gets it! She. Totally. Gets. It. As I continue to grow and progress as a person and as an artist, I can honestly say, by watching her videos and now having the pleasure of talking with her, she’s already inspired me to be more confident in everything that I do. With that being said, we hope this collaboration leaves you feeling inspired to be true to who you are, be more confident and see the beauty in whatever life has blessed you with.

Be you, 

Ale 
  

Beauty According to Lucy Garland

FB: First and foremost; thank you so much, from the bottom of our hearts for doing this beautiful collaboration with us. We’re beyond excited to have the opportunity to share your art with all of our followers. For those who don't know you yet, who is Lucy Garland, what’s she all about?

LG: Lucy Garland is all about being Fierce! I am very intrigued with the art of transformation and blurring gender lines. Im in love with glamor and sass and colour! Its all about having fun creatively. Experimenting with makeup and clothing and accessories and seeing what can come from that!

FB: Beauty is very tribal. Which is great, but I also think its good to have diversity. Both Meli, and I love and admire that you march to the beat of your own drum. You give your followers such a real and fun platform to express themselves through the power of makeup and art. Your work is truly visionary, inspiring and influential. Who or what inspires you to create such amazing content? What’s the creative process?

LG: So many things inspire me! Super creative people excite me so much. Other queens are a huge source of inspiration, as well as artists, designers, musicians etc. Anyone who can create something awesome and individual inspire me to do the same! That's what this is all about for me, being able to challenge myself in different ways and come up with something interesting and unique is a very empowering feeling! The creative process can sometimes be gruelling! Although once I am in the moment things start to run like clockwork, and that's when it gets exciting!

FB: You mentioned in one of your youtube videos that your friend convinced you to start a youtube channel (Send him our thanks!!) How did you get into drag and how long have you been doing drag makeup?

LG: I got into drag after watching the first episode of season 5 of RuPaul's drag race. That sealed the deal for me. I had always been obsessed with fashion and art and everything that came along with that, but until I found drag I couldn't seem to find a way to bring the two together.
I have always drawn my whole life, specifically a lot of super realistic portraitrature, So I've spent countless hours studying the face and understanding proportions and depth and shadow. After finishing that first episode, the makeup was the first thing that caught my eye, because it was so similar to the way I was drawing! So I thought why not try it! This was back at the beginning of 2015. Then 6 months later I started my YouTube channel and drag quickly became my life!

FB: Drag makeup has been around for a long time, and it's finally getting the positive attention it deserves. Why do you think that is?

LG: I think people are starting to realise that it is a viable art form, much like painting and drawing! You can slowly feel the world embracing it more and more. With people like Pat McGrath, Marc Jacobs, and even Miley Cyrus who are celebrating drag culture and making it visible in mainstream media, a wider audience is becoming aware that drag is where it all started! The Kardashians are in full beat everyday! No tea, I live for it!

FB: What does 'create your own beauty statement' mean to you?

LG: 'Create your own beauty statement' means be exciting and fierce and do you! Think outside the box and come up with something that will blow people away!

FB: What tip would you give someone who wants to get into drag?

LG: I'd say just do it! Confidence is key!

FB: What does being beautiful mean to you?

LG: Confidence, over anything else.

FB: What’s a beauty+fashion trend you really want to happen?

LG: Good question!  In terms of a fashion trend, I feel like we're not seeing enough platform heels lately. It's all about stilettos and ankle boots! Bring back those gorgeous John Galliano platform heels! He always did them the best, and in amazing colours! And a beauty trend I really want to happen is more outrageous eyeshadow! I feel like you can wow a whole crowd with a good eyeshadow colour!

FB: The outfits, the wigs, the jewellery - every single detail you put into your looks, always looks incredible, and what we like is that it never, no matter how bad ass it is, it never wears you, your personality still shines right through. What does ‘style’ mean for you?

LG: Style to me means to understand the composition of your piece of art. What colour is going to look good with that? What texture will compliment that? It's all about having a strong vision. Every time I dress up in drag I have a persona or a character in mind. By knowing what attitude you're wanting to put out there, you can then use your style to help to convey that!

FB: Based on your incredible journey so far, If there's one piece of advice you can give anyone, what would that be?

LG: Practice!

FB: Top three people you would love to do makeup on?

LG: Number one would have to be RuPaul! Number 2 probably Beyonce, just because I would like to be in the same room as her. Although I do think she would look fierce in full drag! And 3rd maybe kim Kardashian, I would just love to see if her skin was really that flawless close up!

FB: Your highlight is always on point! do you have a preferred highlight medium?

LG: I have this really good role on highlighter that I got for $2. It's the most efficient highlighter I have ever used!

FB: What’s your favourite makeup remover/cleanser to help take off your makeup at the end of a filming day?

LG: Honestly, coconut oil works wonders for removing drag makeup! It gets rid of anything!

FB: We also love us some Queen Bey! What's your favourite Album?

LG: Tough question!
To be honest, Lemonade is still on repeat. I don't think I will ever get over it. But! Dangerously in Love will always be classic Bey! Can't go wrong with a bit of Crazy In Love!

(We couldn't agree more!)

Lucy made a 5 part tutorial on how to do drag makeup. Watch, and get inspired! (Keep an eye out for our No.6 Beauty Primer in Part 2! )

Part 1: How to cover your eyebrows

Part 2: Skin-prep, Foundation & Countour

Part 3: Eyes & Eyebrows

Part 4: Lips & Lashes

Want to watch more? Head over to Lucy's YouTube channel, and get lost in her magic! 

Follow her on Instagram: @Lucygarland

Do you want to know what makes us giddy like kids in a candy-shop? Being told that our products are being used by our make-up artist guru friends for magazine photo-shoots, events, and everyday beauty rituals (to name a few occasions). To celebrate their talents and our deep pride in our products, I'm sharing this fierce (and pink themed) beauty story in Dress To Kill magazine. All hail Leslie-Ann Thomson for creating an amazing look and sharing the love. xo

(Photo credit: Max Abadian)

Enjoy...and more features to come! 

 A quick note before we talk about all things beauty. I wholeheartedly believe that beauty is not a privilege. It lives within all of us, and all this crap about the 'best beauty-whatever' being only available to certain people is BS. One of the intentions behind our blog is to help you recognize and tap into your inner, most beautiful self.  It's a journey, and we're all in it together!

I'm really excited to share our thoughts, collaborations, ideas, product launches and everything in-between

Ale