Q: Explain your foray into hair styling . . .
I’ve really been creating and cutting hair since I was five years old. I look back now at some old photographs my mother has in her photo albums and I see myself with a doll in one hand and a comb and shears in another. Later, after graduating with a Bachelor in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing and a short stint in PR & Marketing, I enrolled in Robert Finance Hair Design Institute in New York City. Several mentors in music entertainment and beauty encouraged me to open my own business and work in the entertainment and beauty industry by creating styles for album covers, video and editorial print work. And I’m happy I took their advice and guidance.

Q: Your book TEXTURED TRESSES: The Ultimate Guide to Maintaining and Styling Natural Hair says that the textured hair we see everywhere nowadays is nothing new, but a rediscovery. How so?
Sure, there is really nothing new under the sun. As we evolve, the methods and techniques advance, but history always repeats itself. The history of textured hair began way back before Christ–who had ‘hair like wool’–was born. It started with Egyptian Civilization and the 18th Dynasty, where African Queens (Neffertiti) who wore her hair in braided and weaved styles. Then the Massai tribe was the first to wear locs. In the 60s and 70s, the big ‘fro was introduced. Now it’s the textured twist out or BIG weaved curly ‘fro’s. Cleopatra & Vidal Sassoon created the geometric bobb you see on Rihanna and Victoria Beckham today. So you see, it’s really nothing new, but rather a rediscovery, a reinvention and inspiration from the past.

Q: In the introduction to your book, you describe the process of cutting off your relaxed hair and going natural. For those who aren’t ready to cut off and start anew is it possible to wear textured styles with relaxed hair too?
Definitely, I’ve mellowed out since then. The drastic route isn’t for everyone! There are several options, if you would like to grow out your relaxed style. First and foremost, keep your relaxed hair conditioned with a protein/moisture cocktail conditioning treatment. Then make sure you condition the new growth of the natural hair with a moisturizing conditioner. The new growth creates a line of demarcation and you want to avoid breakage at this point. The free ‘twist out’ look can be achieved with the flat twist natural set. After the set is dried completely and released, simply separate and finger comb at the base for a voluminous free wavy curly coif. Long rod sets are also another option to create spiral curly hairstyles. If you don’t have the patience to grow out your relaxer, but are fearful of a short look, you can also look into curly and wavy weaves for that immediate gratification. You will obtain a curly look while you grow out your relaxed hair.

Q: How easy is it to maintain textured hairstyles?
What does textured hair really mean? Well there are wavy, curly and tightly coiled hair patterns. Then there are dimensional styling on highly textured hair, like locking, coiling and braiding. Maintenance is required on any type of hairstyle, whether it’s relaxed and smooth straight hair or textured hairstyles. All styles require maintenance from cleansing, properly conditioning, moisturizing and protection against hot tools. Now, the least amount of maintenance can be found in the short Caesar and cute curly cropped fro. However, after your locs have blossomed to about 4-5 inches in length, you’ll enjoy a great amount of freedom. Another low fuss, frizz-free style is the softened textured curly look which is achieved by applying a softener or texturized chemical relaxing process or lye-free relaxing process.

Q: Are there any celebrities whose textured looks you like right now?
I love the natural textured curly styles of Tracee Ellis Ross, Cindy Blackman and Corrine Bailey Rae. All the wavy and curly looks that Beyoncé rocks day in and day out! Not to mention the many natural coifs that Lenny Kravitz sports, one of my sexiest clients ever.

Q: Describe a total “American Beauty.”
An American Beauty is a woman of all colors who embraces her inner and outer beauty and enriches her physical, mental and spiritual being to complement her appearance.

Q: A complete hairstyle, makeup and wardrobe revamp . . . The American Beauty Tour 2008 sound so fun! What inspired it?
I was actually inspired while I was creating a total transformation for a beauty photo shoot and writing a makeover book for teenagers. I was combing out a whole head of locks to create a free flowing soft afro look on an editor. Yes, it was a crazy process, and yes it can be done! Not recommended, but you can comb out locs, depending on the texture. Let’s just say about 100 hours later, she had length and free-flowing hair again. I was inspired to create a total transformation for the young adult market that also needed to know more about their natural hair texture and how to work it in other forms or fashions. The tour started there and blossomed into this amazing beauty, wellness and total makeover glam contests in several magazines. Now we are coming to four cities and bringing it full force with beauty editors, beauty business owners, makeup and hairstylists, products and all that! So you’ll definitely want to check it out when it comes to a city near you. For more details visit www.ddabtour.com

Q: What do you hope people will take away from this tour?
A wealth of education regarding the history of where textured curly hair comes from is the first message. Secondly, that women of color and hair textures comes in all shades and curl patterns. Definitely, shaping the world to understand that curly hair is here to stay. Wearing your textured hair has so many possibilities and is endless from softened textured looks to natural locked, braided or weaved looks to relaxed healthy styles. Loving who you are first, accepting the texture you were born with and understanding that you can create any style once you start with healthy hair is the most important message I can bring to any and all nationalities. “Textured hair is beautiful hair” is my motto!

For more information about Diane Da Costa, Textured Tresses and The American Beauty Tour please visit www.dianedacosta.com and www.ddabtour.com.

Q: When did you begin your craft of hairstyling?
Well my high school was a beauty school- – so technically and officially I started doing hair my freshman year. It was called “Sarah J. Hale”, located in Brooklyn. It saved my life and open many doors for me.

Q: How did you get into doing hair for celebrities?
It was definitely a word of mouth situation. I had a couple of clients that worked at record labels or were in the business in some way. They basically put me on.

Q: You’re the stylist behind Rihanna’s infamous bob. Why did you decide to do something that drastic with her hair?
Because I’m drastic! LOL. Rihanna wanted a new look. And I was tired of all these artist looking the same, that’s so boring. I feel that back in the day artist took more chances with their look and I missed that. So, I decided to do the opposite. Everyone was doing long and brown, so I did short and black. I’m always changing my look so that also inspired her. Basically giving her that confidence.

Q: There have been debates about who rocked the bob first. Was there anyone in particular whose hairstyle inspired the look you gave Rihanna?
Debates?? I inspired her Bob. I’m all about a great cut and that’s been my trademark for as long as I can remember.

Q: Summer is fast and coming. What advice would you give to Clutch readers looking for a shorter look for the season? Can shorter styles look good on anyone?
Shorter styles can look great on everyone. My advice is don’t necessarily follow the trend. Find the look thats right for you. It’s like jeans low-rise… it’s not for everyone!!

Q: You’re known for your expertise in “new image” hair makeovers. Do you have to do something completely daring to someone’s hair to create a new image? How subtle can a new look be? Well you really don’t have to do something daring, it can be as subtle as cutting a bang or changing the side that you usually part your hair. Doing something opposite than what you usually do is a makeover in itself.

Q: What products would you recommend for us ladies whom have become attached to our flat irons? (I carry mine in a holster at the hip!) Well one of my favorite products is FHI Hot Sauce. It’s a great product that restores moisture and protects hair against damaging effects of heat without weighing the hair down and smells really good too!

Q: My hair looks like a dried-out lion’s mane when I wear it naturally curly. Is there anything I could do or use in my hair to tame the beast on my head? The trick to taming curly hair is applying product to the hair when it is still wet. And the best products are leave – in conditioners. One of my favorite products are TIGI Bedhead leave – in conditioner (for curls) and another is Atone with Nature. I like leave – in’s that cling to the hair without weighing it down. And these two are great for that — just the right amount of muscle.

Q: What hairstyles can we expect to see for Spring/Summer? Are bangs still popular, can we anticipate seeing more sleek middle parts?
Short hair will still be popular this summer. With combinations of heavy blunt bangs (old school), sexy side swept bangs. I also see middle parts coming back in a big way, but shoulder length nothing too long.

Q: Where else can we see your hairstyling finesse? Who are you currently styling?
Well as you know Rihanna is one of my main clients, Michelle Williams — we just shot her music video. I also do lots of beauty stories with Essence and makeovers.

Q: What’s the most rewarding and challenging aspect of your career as a celebrity hairstylist?
As its always been making people feel good about themselves. Seeing that smile as though a miracle has just happened!! And also having my work broadcasted for the world to see:)

Q: Lastly, what tricks do you live by? What are your personal trade secrets?
Well I can’t tell u everything, [LOL] but heres a good one. Lipgloss on fly aways!

Q: What inspired you to become a makeup artist? And how did you start in the business?
I was inspired to become a makeup artist when I was a model and the makeup artists couldn’t do my makeup properly. They couldn’t choose or mix the correct shade of foundation etc so I had to do it myself. After a while other models at the shoot or fashion show would ask which makeup artist did my makeup and I would say “I Did my own” and they would ask if I could make them look as good as me? That’s how I started doing makeup. I began in the business by assisting several top makeup artists at NO CHARGE so I worked for FREE…. and SEVERAL hours on the job training. I majored in fine arts in college which is why color and color theory comes so naturally for me.

Q: Tell us about your innovative cosmetic line, Color by Cynde Watson. What makes this collection so unique?
What makes my makeup collection unique is that all of my products: foundation, concealer, eye shadow, bronzer, highlighter, blush and lip color are all dual-ended pencils. I was inspired to create my makeup collection when I had my daughter Kennedy. When she was a baby (now four years old) she wouldn’t let me put her down in the morning so I could apply my makeup for work. She would start screaming if I put her down, so I had to put my makeup on with one hand. I didn’t have a live in nanny so I had to be ready to leave for work completely when the babysitter arrived at my door. The pencil concept came to me because I was only able to use eyeliner pencils as eye shadow and lip pencils as lip color and blush and concealer pencils as foundation etc. while getting ready for work with my daughter in on my left hip coloring my face with my right hand. What I knew I needed to do was to create a formula and a tool that would work in a pencil form to make life easier for multi-tasking women of all ages and nationalities.

Q: You are very much into health and nutrition, using only organic ingredients (the ingredients aren’t all organic). Will this consciousness eventually trickle down into creating a holistic skin care line?
I’ve always been health conscious however in the past year I have been eating 95 percent organic food and I’ve never looked or felt better. I am planning to add more natural ingredients to my products in the future, especially my skincare products.

Q: What are some obstacles and challenges that you’ve faced in your field since you began?
The major obstacle that I have faced in this industry has been people understanding that a creative makeup artist can also be powerful business women.

Q: You’ve worked with some amazing talents from Angela Bassett to Queen Latifah to Tyson Beckford. In addition, you’ve created runway looks for designers such as Badgley Mischka and Tracey Reese. Do you have a preference between working one-on-one with celebrity clients or working entire concepts for runway shows?
I enjoy working with both models and celebrities very much, however what I love the most is working with non-celebrity women to teach them the makeup techniques that will help them look and feel their best with more confidence.

Q: You have five minutes to glam the face of a client right before they walk onto the red carpet. What products do you pull out of your bag of tricks to give them a flawless look in only minutes?
I would pull out a few of my makeup pencils for face eyes and lips; they are the perfect makeup to give you flawless coverage, beautiful buildable color and precise application.

Q: What are some make-up mishaps that you often see?
The makeup mishaps that I often see are:
• Women using too much foundation (giving them the heavy mask look)
• Blotchy foundation
• Not using bronzer to warm and correct the skin
• Not knowing wear or how to apply blush
• Using lip liner that is too dark or applying a too thin line on the lips making the lips look tight and small
• Applying to much mascara giving them CLUMPY lashes
• Over tweezed eyebrows or eyebrows that are drawn on too dark

Q: What advice can you give to women when choosing the right? Foundation?
When choosing foundation make sure that you choose three shades on your jaw line blend them into the skin one at a time with clean fingers or use a sponge. The shade that disappears into the skin is the perfect shade. I also believe women should own at least two shades of foundation so they can consistently have the correct shade of foundation year long (summer months, winter months).

Q: What beauty product/treatment do you feel every woman should splurge on?
Women should splurge on skin treatment, foundation, concealer and professional eyebrow shaping.

Q: What is this Spring’s palette in terms of makeup?
Bright beautiful and vibrant shades of coral, lavender and green on the eyes and shimmery shades of plum, peach and nude on the lips.

Q: For women on a budget, what is the easiest thing they can do with make up that will have the biggest impact?
• Use dual purpose or dual ended makeup.
• Use a Foundation pencil or stick foundation that can double as a foundation and concealer.
• A bronzer with a highlighter in a dual-ended pencil or compact is great to use to give skin warmth and dimension.
• A blush that can also be used as a lip color.

Q: You have a beautiful daughter, how do you manage both career and family?
Thank you, she (Kennedy) is the most important person in my life. I manage my career and home life by being extremely organized, taking care of myself by eating healthy and exercising so I have the energy to entertain a four year old and I get great support from my husband Ken, my Mother Eleanor and sister-in-law Lanelle, and prayer always works.

Q: Aside from launching your fabulous makeup line, what can we expect in the near future from you?
I am working on a beauty book and an exciting TV project. Stay tuned.

For more information about Cynde Watson and Color by Cynde Watson please visit beauty.hsn.com .

Q: What made you two decide to launch this up and coming brand?
We decided to launch Illusions Cosmetics to meet the needs of women of color and to give them more options when selecting makeup shades and products.

Q: What type of products are included in your line?
The products that are included in our line are lipsticks, lip glosses in several shades and formulas, crème foundations, loose and pressed powders, blush and a large selection of eye shadows.

Q: Both of you are seasoned celebrity makeup artist. What is one of the biggest mistakes you think women of color make when applying and/or purchasing makeup?
Some of the biggest mistakes women of color make when applying and/or purchasing makeup are:
Denise: Buying incorrect shades of foundation and buying products they do not use.
Janice: Following trends but not knowing what colors compliment their skin tone.

Q: In your opinion, what makes Illusions Cosmetics stand out from other brands?
The fact that we are willing to educate our clients on products and colors first and sell second is what make us stand out from other brands.

Q: As you both know, one of the popular trends in makeup right now is mineral makeup. How do you feel about this trend and does Illusions Cosmetics have or plan on introducing mineral products into the brand in the future?
Denise: Mineral makeup has actually been around for quite some time. Most women buy it because it is a trend and they have seen it on TV.

Janice: As a makeup artist, we’ve found that mineral makeup can be very ashy on some women of color with medium to dark skin tones. Some clients have shared with us that it doesn’t give them enough coverage. We have talked about it and researched and tested, and at this time, there are no plans for Illusions to come out with a mineral makeup line.

Q: You two recently launched a new collection of lip glosses named after some of our favorite films. What inspired you two to pay homage to these cinematic classics?
Most of our careers as makeup artists have been spent working on feature films. We thought it would be a great idea to name our new line of glosses after some of our favorite movies. We wanted to make it fun. So far, everyone’s loving it.

Q: If you had to, what would be the one product from Illusions Cosmetics you would want someone to purchase to introduce them to your brand?
One product we would use to introduce the brand to someone… without a doubt, is our LIP GLOSS!!! Our clients love our lip glosses and it’s been our most popular item to sell. Most women wear color on their lips, even if they don’t wear anything else. Lip gloss has been a hot cosmetic item for a long time now. Actually, that’s what we started our line with years ago.

Q: What’s is your number one makeup tip you give out the most?
Denise: Always use a moisturizer before applying foundation and powder.
Janice: Always use a lip conditioner or lip balm before applying your lip color (lipstick or gloss). This will prevent dry, chapped and cracked lips under your lip color.

Q: Since this is Clutch, we would love to know what beauty products are in your clutch bag?
Denise: Rosebud Lip Salve, Carmen Lustre lip gloss and Cappuccino pressed Powder from Illusions.
Janice: Dream Girls Lustre lip gloss, Copper Lip Gloss, and Cappuccino pressed powder all from Illusions.

Q: Lastly, what’s next for you two and Illusion Cosmetics?
A beauty DVD is in the works, distribution in several retail outlets and an Illusions Cosmetics Boutique!

For more information about Illusions Cosmetics please visit illusionsbeauty.com or call 310.748.3489
If you are in the Maryland area you can purchase Illusions Cosmetics products at Haute Chocolate Style Studio, 925 Fairlawn Ave. Suite 109, Laurel, MD 20707. (T) 301.725.0303

Celebrity makeup artist Mally Roncal is one of the most sought-after and beloved style-makers in the beauty industry today. Her work can be seen in the editorial of iconic publications such as Allure, InStyle, Harper’s Bazaar, W, Marie Claire, Elle and Lucky, as well as on fashion runways, album covers and, of course, the red carpet. Mally’s natural gift is her ability to make her clients not only look beautiful, but feel beautiful. This has made her a favorite among a varied group of celebrities such as Beyoncé, Zooey Deschanel, Jennifer Lopez, Mary J. Blige, Amanda Bynes, Teri Hatcher, Celine Dion, Lee Ann Womack and Ashlee Simpson.

Q: What advice would you give to someone who wants to update her look but is stuck in a rut?
First of all, go for the glow look. The dark matte shadows and blushes look old. Add some fresh lightness to your look, with light in key areas such as eyes, cheekbones – move from lipstick to lip-gloss.

Q: What are some new makeup trends for 2008?
Soft shimmery eyes with a sun kissed cheek and a soft nude lip.

Q: In your opinion, what makeup look ages someone?
See above. Heavy foundation, heavy and dark matte lipsticks, eye shadows–dry skin!

Q: As a woman of color, what is one common beauty/makeup mistake we need to watch out for?
Make sure that the foundation matches your skin-tone!

Q: Tell us about your makeup collection Mally Beauty.
It was created for all women to get the makeup artists looks, easily and effortlessly. Each product I make is a system or part of a system that will create a beautiful, healthy look.

Q: Why did you decide to start it?
I wanted to be able to spread my message and share my makeup artist secrets with women everywhere.

Q: Do you have a favorite product in your collection?
The smokey eye kit, it’s a great way to look sexy and it’s easy!

Q: Who are some other makeup artist or brands that inspire you?
Nars, Kevin Aucoin and Bobbi Brown.

Q: Who are some of your favorite celebs to work with?
Beyonce, J.LO and Mariah,

Q: What beauty essentials are in your clutch?
Lip-gloss, False Lashes and Shimmer, Shape and Glow and the Mally Beauty Light Wand.

Q: What’s up next for Mally and Mally Beauty?
Continue working with all of my favorite clients and continuing to grow Mally Beauty and spread our message of love all around the world.

To learn more about Mally and Mally Beauty please log-on to www.mallybeauty.com
1.Life, Love & A Really Great Lip Gloss Singles, $15, Mally Beauty 2. City Chick Smokey Eye Kit, $39.50, Mally Beauty 3. Believable Bronzer, $15, Mally Beauty 4. Color Collections Lipstick Singles, $15, Mally Beauty

Offering an array of services, Fairweather Faces, Inc. is a one-stop destination to becoming your sexiest. Everything from hair styling, makeup, manis and pedis, top of the line spa services and even your own personal make up shopper, has made being beautiful so easy. Clutch was able to catch up with CEO and founder of Fairweather Faces, Andrea Fairweather, to discuss this season’s trends and beauty solutions.

Q: What inspired you to become a makeup artist? And how did you start in the business?
I was inspired to become a makeup artist through an injury. I was a dancer in college and fell during dance class. It was an epiphany moment. During the healing phase, I realized that I must choose a profession that I was interested in and had a natural talent to do. Makeup was it.

I started as a makeup artist in NYC Department stores. Great training ground. I got to meet people from all over the world and cater to their various makeup needs.

Q: Have you done makeup for any celebrities or magazine publications?
I do work with various celebrities and magazine publications. It is always a blessing when they call for services.

Q: What has been the most challenging project to date for you?
Reminding myself to balance my life as well as cater to my clients’ needs. Life is always better when you take care of yourself.

Q: In terms of makeup, what colors should we be embracing for this winter?
Warm tones, deep berries, purples and chocolate hues. They look so fly on the lips and nails.

Q: How do you keep abreast of the latest trends?
Fairweather Faces creates our own trends! We are leaders and spiritually know what’s hot before it hits the public.

Q: What products should women never leave home without?
Blotting sheets (for oily skin), lip gloss and a blush that doubles as an eyeshadow.

Q: What are some of your best beauty tips to offer women of color?
Work your natural tones in the eyelids. It appears as if we are already wearing eye shadow (by way of our undertones), so if you apply your foundation and concealer correctly, you will enhance those eyelid colors.

Q: For women on a budget, what is the easiest thing we can do with makeup to create the biggest impact?
If you apply your concealer and powder correctly, a pop of mascara, blush and lip gloss, then you can look pulled together for less time and money.

Q: Let’s talk about eyebrow grooming. What is an easy fix for the over-tweezed eyebrow?
A makeup fix for an over-tweezed eyebrow is to fill in with a complementary eye shadow color using an eyebrow brush. It gives the most natural look.

Q: Should your eyebrows always match your hair color? How safe is eyebrow bleaching?
Your eyebrows should be one shade lighter, yet still in the hue of your hair color. If brows are the same color or darker, it will give a harsh look to the face. Eyebrow bleaching is safe if a professional provides that service.

Q: What inspired you to start Fairweather Faces? And what other services do you offer?
I wanted to create an opportunity for me and other artists to travel to the clients’ location to provide services. Fairweather Faces provides (on-site) makeup, nails, hairstyling, massage therapy and personal shopping services. We are located across the country in order to service our clients.

Q: What is most gratifying about the work you do?
Hearing the artists get excited when they work with someone they admire. Also seeing the faces of the clients light up when they look in the mirror. They trust us so much, and that means the world us.

Q: What advice can you offer to aspiring makeup artists and entrepreneurs?
Study your craft/business top to bottom! You must add your special touch to it in order to be different from the rest.

To learn more please visit www.fairweatherfaces.com

Clutch: When did Hamadi Beauty Officially Launch?
2004

Clutch: Why did you decide to launch Hamadi Beauty?
It started early on. I was doing color corrections, and most of my clients were complaining about how dry their hair was and why products they were using just didn’t work. Most clients complain about dryness, and most hair products use harsh chemicals, that create dryness; it just didn’t make sense… we are constantly depleting our hair. It’s a profound reflection on what is going on with global warming, I didn’t have a choice. I am naturally driven to make a difference in my way, and I have created it. With this in mind I started mixing up my own conditioners and created my own formulas to condition my clients hair after it was colored. I realized then that there was a huge gap in the market. Not only were there not enough main stream natural products in the 80’s and 90’s, but the looks were stiff and most people where still using mousse and hard gels and hair sprays. There were not any soft creams or light hair conditioning or natural shea sprays, until I created it. Check out the Hamadi Shea spray to see what I mean…

Clutch: What is the personal philosophy behind your product line?
It’s about beauty with a conscious, simple beauty regimes, who has the time? Our philosophy is that you can nourish the health of your hair while you are on the go. The Hamadi line is an amazing multitasking product line. It’s meant to simplify your hair care regimen from the inside out.

Clutch: What made you decide to take the leap from styling to creating your own product line?
It just made sense. I wanted a product that was natural, simple and earth conscious, so I created it. I was tired of being disappointed in products that didn’t work for my hair. I have very curly dry textured hair. I tried everything, and when my clients complained about the same thing, I realized there was a huge gap in the mainstream market. There are so many products that just produce waste, so I started researching and realized I was on to something…and here we are. The future is all about being eco… We don’t have a choice, it’s now a global concern. I am happy to be in the forefront of this trend. It’s everything. Its my way of making a difference and having a voice.

Clutch: The words “green” and “organic” have been popping up in a lot in the product lines of some of our favorite brands, but most of us have no clue what this actually means or how our hair can benefit from using them. We also know that Hamadi Beauty is a 100% organic line. Can you explain what this actually means and how it benefits one’s hair, specifically African American/Black textures?
All organic products are good for you especially in the hair, the difference is that organic products are grown naturally without all of the harsh chemicals and toxins that are really bad for anyone’s hair let alone our environment, this is a profound reflection.

Clutch: Speaking of textures, Hamadi Beauty is an awesome line for African American/Black hair. Did you originally want Hamadi Beauty to become a brand for African American/Black hair, or did you want it to be a line for all to enjoy and benefit from?
The Hamadi line is ideal for African American hair because of the gentle, simple, natural ingredients. It’s not about harsh chemicals or using products with silicones or sulfate that break the hair. It’s about using a product to nourish and replenish hair from the inside out with ingredients like Shea butter, rice proteins, plant extracts and essential oils. Our line is to simplify your hair care regimen and many of the Hamadi products may be used in a multitude of ways. For example, the Shea hair cream is a styling conditioning product that can be used to enhance curl but also may be used as a straightener and protects the hair.

Clutch: Can we say we just love your tagline “Tested on Actresses Not Animals!” Do brands still test on animals, and is there a way that we can find out if they do?
I don’t know about other brands but I am sure you can test the products.

Clutch: Do you use your line? And if so, what products do you use to achieve your look?
Absolutely! My kit consists of: (1) Hamadi Shea Spray, $18, (2) Hamadi Shea Hair Cream, $23 – for guys and for thicker hair and (3) Hamadi Shea Leave, $22 These products I can not live without. I can achieve any look with these three products. (available at www.tobi.com)

Clutch: As a stylist and creator of an amazing product line, do you have any advice and Hamadi Beauty product suggestions that for those who are trying to retain growth and the health of their hair for the winter?
Use shampoos that are natural and gentle, like the Hamadi ginger soymilk hair wash. Use products that are good for you. Check out the ingredients. Brush your hair every night to stimulate your scalp and to help circulate blood to your head. Check out the Hamadi travel wooden bristle brush, reduces static. Use the Hamadi Shea spray for that extra sheen without the weight, and maintain a healthy glow. If you have dandruff, I suggest you use the Hamadi healing serum. This is designed to heal your scalp and hair. All of our products contain ylang ylang which helps with hair growth. The most important tip is to add moisture without the weight. Check the ingredients, become a conscious beauty consumer, wash your hair once or twice a week and choose a style you an work for a few days in different ways. Remember to always add moisture and pay attention to the unique texture of your hair. Trim your ends, very slightly, every few months for growth.

Clutch: What’s in the future for the Hamadi Beauty line?
We are in development with hotels which includes body washes. I am developing a new hair product that I can’t discuss at the moment, but I will say it will be the first to ever be created and revolutionize the hair care industry it’s a constant challenging change.

Summer: Tell us, AJ, what inspired you to become a makeup artist?
I have always been involved in creative arts. Makeup for me was an experiment or personal test, if you will. After working with a makeup artist who just could not reproduce my vision for a project I was working on.

Summer: Who are some artists and celebrities that you’ve worked with?
Hilary Duff, Keyshia Cole, Rihanna, Amerie, Keisha Whitaker.

Summer: What celebrity did you most enjoy working with? And what feature of theirs did you like to play up the most?
I have great relationships with all of my clients. On Amerie we experiment more with eyes, Hilary I actually do her hair as well so we have an opportunity to try new things that translate to a complete look, Keyshia, has amazing lips. For Essence we did a bold purple lip color from the Kissable Couture “First Kiss” Collection I created called “Tyler.”

Summer: What is your definition of “luxe” skin and how can we achieve it?
I can’t create a flawless face if I have not perfected the skin. Luxe skin is just that— smooth in texture, seemingly creamy, and soft. My clients aren’t hiding behind a mask of makeup, luxe skin is effortless and invisible. Most true luxury is understated.

Summer: You have five minutes to glam the face of a client right before they walk onto the red carpet. What products do you pull out of your bag of tricks to give them a flawless look in only minutes?
I’ll begin with curling the eyelashes with my Shu Umera eyelash curler, then fill in the inner rim of the eye with a black or brown kohl liner from Make Up For Ever. Coat the lashes with my favorite mascara in “X” from MAC. Put two applications of “Johnny” by Kissable Couture on her lips and send her off with a black case of Bobbi Brown blot papers. It’s all about the black case you can’t—use those paper on red carpet with out it!

Summer: What beauty product/treatment do you feel every woman should splurge on?
Hands down, facials and Kissable Couture!!! Facials make it possible for you to maintain radiant healthy skin and Kissable Couture is luxury for your lips . . . you can’t lose!

Summer: What are some make-up mishaps that you often see?
Taking on every trend. Yes it may be chic to have a smoky eye for the season, or a crimson lip that seems to be a staple for the last five seasons. We don’t necessarily need to do them both at the same time; know your assets and play them up. Take on one beauty trend at a time. Your makeup should be harmonious.

Summer: The Pimple from Hell . . . (When you’ve tried everything but putting a bag over your head). What is the best way to cover up a blemish?
I usually start with a shade of concealer that is brighter than your actual skin tone. Then apply your normal shade over the tone. This helps to cancel the discoloration of the blemish and blend it into your skin tone.

Summer: What are some of your best beauty tips to offer women of color?
Experiment with your makeup! It washes off. Don’t be afraid of color. Find the right shade for you . . . step outside of your comfort zone. You’ll never know what new looks will look great on you if you are committed to the same color palette you’ve been using for the last five years.

Summer: What is this fall’s palette in terms of makeup?
Gold and bronze tones, purples and bits or shimmer.

Summer: Which products do you recommend for us to keep in our Clutch?
Everything I would use in my five minute celebrity makeover.

Summer: Tell us about Kissable Couture.
Kissable Couture is amazing! I started this project two years ago and its finally here. It’s a very surreal experience. The vision I had for the brand is now tangible. I think that’s the most amazing part of it all. The “First Kiss Collection” consists of seven shades I
designed with my partner Keisha Whitaker. Each individual lipgloss comes in a little black case with a perfectly hand tied ribbon. It’s the most luxurious lip gloss you could ever give yourself . . . and this season it’s all about getting reacquainted with your “First Kiss”! each shade is named after a different boy… for example, the color “Forest” is named after Keisha’s first kiss that really mattered!

Summer: What are some of the obstacles and challenges you’ve had to face in this industry?
Staying interested! I never want to feel like its work, When it does, I’ll take a break. Often when you do celebrities you create a signature look, and once you’ve done that look for the 80th time (smiles), you want something different! So I still do test shoots with my photographer friends. I just returned from attending fashion week in Milan for a change of pace and for some inspiration. Another way I find inspiration is by visiting museums. Another form of “obstacle” is staying ahead of the pack. There is someone new entering the industry everyday, so finding new ways to stay fresh and current is always on the forefront of my mind as I advance. The phrase “your only as good as your last performance” is so true!

Summer: As a makeup artist, what void do you currently see in your industry? And how do you continue to challenge yourself?
Although I have worked with some amazing clients, I’m still growing. I have recent endeavored into formulating cosmetics. I think there is room for me there. The industry is changing. I continuously ask myself what it is that I want to achieve next. I can’t sit still, so for me I don’t think that I’ll ever be completely satisfied—so I’ll push myself for more, and there is a lot more for me to do. The challenge is trying to do it all (smiles), which I know I can’t but I’ll give it a shot!

When Bad Boy Entertainment needs to look flawless, they immediately call on makeup artist, Merrell Hollis of kenbarboza.com to work his magic. With the skilled eye of an artist, he enhances his subject’s natural beauty, complimenting any outfit or occasion.

Clutch: What inspired you to become a makeup artist?
Merrell: When looking through Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar, I was intrigued at how beautiful all the women were and how amazing the makeup looked. Makeup can accentuate a women’s natural beauty in numerous ways; I wanted to be a part of that.

Clutch: What steps have you taken to break into the industry?
Merrell: Being confident in yourself and your craft can take you anywhere. Once I stopped doubting myself and allowed myself to appreciate my work, was when I realized I am going to make it. I have been blessed in this industry.

Clutch: What are the obstacles and challenges that you have faced in your field since you began?
Merrell: I would have to say my biggest challenge was moving from Columbus, Georgia to New York City. It was a whole new world to me. I also feel that when you are working with a major celebrity their schedules can become very challenging, from early morning video shoots, to movie premieres, award shows, and other commercial enterprises; you never know where you might be the next day.

Clutch: When you are booked for a job, do you usually have full creative freedom or is it a collaborative effort with the photographer/and or designer?
Merrell: The creative freedom usually depends on the project. If it is a beauty story, I usually have creative control. If it is a fashion editorial, the photographer usually creates the mood.

Clutch: What are some general trends we are seeing in make up for this fall/winter?
Merrell: For the fall/winter, I feel the direction is going to be very dewy skin with a strong lip. Keep an eye out for cranberries, raspberries, mauves, and browns.

Clutch: What are some of your best beauty tips to offer women of color?
Merrell: For women of color, my personal beauty tip is to make sure you skin looks great!! A good moisturizer is always essential, it helps bring out your skins natural glow and also keeps make up application smooth and even. The correct foundation is always important, make sure it matches your skin tone and is not ashy!!

Clutch: For women on a budget, what is the easiest thing they can do with make up that will have the biggest impact?
Merrell: Contrary to popular beliefs, drugstores do carry some excellent make up. The best thing is to find a good foundation and powder, my personal favorite is Black Opal foundation sticks.

Clutch: What products should women always have in their clutch?
Merrell: Spot treatment, great mascara, blotting powder to control shine, clear lip gloss, and of course lip, cheek, and eye color that compliment your skin tone.

Clutch: Lastly, what advice can you offer to aspiring makeup artists?
Merrell: My advice to an aspiring makeup artist is to do it only if it’s in your heart. Do it for the right reasons, not for the fame, the free products, or just to have something to do. Educate yourself, learn about skin care, color theory, and product knowledge. People are trusting you with their skin, their red carpet looks, and their magazine editorials. Your clients need to be confident in you!!

Billy has worked with oodles of celebrities such as Lauryn Hill, Pink, Sharon Stone, Beyonce, and Missy Elliott just to name a few. His work has appeared in countless music videos, and in the pages of Harper’s Bazaar, Vibe Vixen, Essence and Lucky. Billy now has a book deal, a reality TV show in the works and a burgeoning line of makeup tools. He always maintains that he has been blessed to be doing what he is doing and the one thing that everyone says about him is that he is down to earth and a southern charmer. I spoke with Billy recently and found all of the above to be more than true…

Lianne: When you first came to New York, you worked at Macy’s behind a cosmetics counter. Once you discovered your “hidden talent” what was it that drew you to hone your craft and forge ahead beyond the counter?
I do not consider myself a “book smart” person. I struggled as a student in school because of dyslexia, which at the time, I didn’t know I had, so I had been told my entire life that I was stupid and lazy and was choosing not to apply myself. What I realize now is that I was incapable of applying myself in school because of this challenge. So when the opportunity of being a makeup artist was in front of me, I took it and because of my desire to make something out of myself I pursued it with all the passion I had.

Lianne: I have read that the late Kevyn Aucoin was one of your inspirations early in your career, did you ever get a chance to work with him?
Sadly, I never had the pleasure of meeting Kevyn in person, but without knowing him, he gave me one of the greatest personal and professional gifts I’ve ever received. He thanked me along with other makeup artists in his book Making Faces. In his dedication page, he thanked “the makeup artists past and present who have taught and inspired me”; and in the list was my name. I had no idea that Kevyn even knew who I was. It is still, to this day, one of the most validating things that has ever happened to me. I wrote Kevyn a letter of thanks along with a bouquet of his favorite flowers and he responded with a thank you note to my thank you note, which to this day is framed in my home and one of my most prized possessions.

You have said, “Clients trust me to transform their face when necessary but they also understand that I have the wisdom to know when NOT to…”, that is such a fantastic statement because being a makeup artist and former model, I always hear of horror stories and I have been on the receiving end of some pretty bad makeup jobs. How do you decide when to transform and when not to??
That’s a great question and difficult to answer. Part of being a great makeup artist is judgment, and judgment has many factors. I try to weigh all the factors in making my decision and just pray it works.

If a woman is not used to wearing makeup, but they want to have a nice natural look – what items do you suggest they use?
Number one, start with great skin. Obviously the least amount of makeup for the greatest amount of effect is the goal. I think the rest depends on what God gave them and what’s left for us to do. I like to use as little foundation as possible and prefer a silicone-based liquid foundation. Sheer, colorless, translucent powder, a soft blush with sheen to reflect light and give the illusion of dewiness, a nude lip with a touch of clear gloss (again, to reflect light), a great eyelash curler for the lash followed by mascara.

What tricks do you have for African American women and foundation? There are so few really good shade matches out there because we come in all colors and tones from light to dark and yellow to blue.
Unfortunately, there are no tricks when it comes to foundation for women of color because you are exactly right—you come in all colors and tones. You really have to shop for the perfect foundation for your skin tone. As a makeup artist, luckily cosmetic companies have gotten wise to expanding their shades for women of color. My best advice or tip when shopping is to apply the foundation on several areas, like forehead, cheek, chin and neck. Step outside into natural light and choose the shade closest to all of those areas. In some cases, it means more than one shade.

Lianne: You have worked with some amazing African American celebrities, most notably Lauryn Hill, Tyra Banks, Beyonce, and Mary J. Blige just to name a few a number of times. Who was the first one that said, “Oh yes honey…get me Billy B.”
LOL, luckily I guess all of them did at some point, maybe not at first—who knows? I am blessed that all of those mentioned have asked me back over and over again. They’re all amazing women.

Lianne: One thing that I admire about the looks that you create is how it looks so clean even when it is a decidedly “made up” look, what gives? How do you do it??
If I had to give one answer, it is blend, blend, blend and blend again.

Lianne: Let’s talk a little about how you are single handedly trying to re-furbish your hometown of Aberdeen, Mississippi. I know that this project is very close to your heart and I so admire you for taking it on. What do you ultimately plan to do with the houses that you restore??
That’s a great question and I wish I had the answer. Sadly, the same people there that can’t afford these homes in the first place certainly can’t afford them after I have restored them. The most important thing to me is that the houses are saved and I will worry about the rest later. I’m not a very good businessperson, that’s why I’m a makeup artist. LOL

Lianne: Do you think your artistic eye has helped in your restoration projects??
Absolutely. The transformation process fascinates me whether it be transforming a face or transforming a house. That is what my pending reality television show for Bravo, The Beauty Foundation, is all about. It will contrast my life as a makeup artist in New York and Hollywood with my life saving these houses in Mississippi.

Lianne: When you are working on a photo shoot or a video how do you decide which way to go with the look – for example Lauryn Hill’s “X-Factor” looked so amazing…her skin had this blue tint but it glowed like she was lit from within. Was that something that the director came up with as far as lighting and you just rolled with it?
I love working on music videos and have had the pleasure of working with the most amazing directors out there. It is truly collaboration. Malik Sayeed directed that video and is brilliant. I certainly cannot take all the credit there, but to this day, it is one of the videos I am most proud of. The overall look was achieved with both makeup and light; part of being a great makeup artist is listening to the director and understanding the light. I got lucky and it worked.

Lianne: Do you like to listen to music when you work??
I do, but it’s not always my choice of music. To be honest, sometimes I find it hard to concentrate, but it’s not about me, so I get over it and do the best I can.

Lianne: Let’s talk brushes! You launched your own line of makeup brushes called Billy B. Beauty Paintbrushes. Brushes are such an important tool …but they tend to be expensive. That being said, when you decided to launch your own brand the set was reasonably priced at $249 when you consider you are getting 13 well made brushes. Was that one of the main factors for you going in – did you see a void in the marketplace for an affordable set?
Absolutely. I’m just a poor boy from Mississippi and haven’t forgotten where I’m from. I remember what it was like struggling as a new makeup artist. I wanted the brushes to be accessible to everyone no matter their success level. I appreciate you noticing.

Lianne: If you can’t afford the full set, which brushes would you recommend?
That’s hard, almost like picking your favorite child, but my two favorite brushes are numbers 13 and 12. (keep that under your hat; I don’t want the other brushes to find out!)

Lianne: What else can we expect from Billy B. Beauty? Is there a book in the works
Yes, I’m excited to say that I have a book deal with Palace Press (the company that put out Kevyn Aucoin’s book). It is a dream come true for me and I couldn’t be happier. I have some great ideas that I look forward to sharing with the world.

Lianne: Would you consider having your own makeup line?
I never thought that it was something I’d ever be interested in, but I try to be awake and acknowledge opportunities presented to me. It was never a dream of mine, but never say never.

Lianne: I missed you at TheMakeupShow this past spring, but at the Powder Group’s American Beauty Tour, you are a speaker and you are teaching. How did this come about?
I’ve known Michael Davellis of the Powder Group for years and I have a tremendous amount of respect for him. I am honored to be a part of whatever he’s involved with; he asked and I said yes.

Lianne: Teaching seems like it would be big fun, what is the thing you enjoy the most about it?
Meeting other makeup artists. When I work, I never have the opportunity to meet makeup artists. Teaching has given me that opportunity and I’ve learned from that. I love it!

Lianne: You are blowing up all over the place Mr. B! As you mentioned earlier, Bravo has greenlighted a documentary called The Beauty Foundation starring YOU. How did this come about??
I was working on a shoot with an editor/writer on a job (Isabel Gonzales). I mentioned what I was doing in Mississippi and a couple of months later, she asked to write about my story for the New York Times. It ended up on the front page of the Home & Garden section and producers from World of Wonder productions contacted me; the rest is history.

Lianne: The documentary is focusing on you going back and forth from the glam life of a Hollywood makeup artist to your restoration project in Aberdeen. Have you always been able to make that transition between the two seamlessly?
Yep, you can take the boy out of Mississippi, but you can’t take the Mississippi out of the boy. I will never forget where I came from.

Lianne: Last question, when are you going to do MY makeup??
Name the time and the place, sugar; it would be my pleasure if you don’t talk back.

To Learn more about Billy B. please log-on to www.billybbeauty.com

Meet Our Guest Contributor: Lianne Farbes, www.themakeupgirl.typepad.com
Lianne Farbes is a professional makeup artist and writes TheMakeupGirl Blog, a no nonsense beauty blog and product review site. Her lively writing style makes you feel like you are a friend over for a sleepover and her extensive knowledge of makeup and skincare make the reviews and advice invaluable.