As the Swarovski crystal embellished, peacock blue, green and yellow hued faces of RAFW 2010 become embedded in our memories, making their mark in fashion (daaahlink!) history and taking their place in the RAFW hall of fame…we from the Make-up and Beauty world  ‘literally’ boil with excitement as we clamber to ‘salute’ (standing ovation PLEASE!) those amazing, exquisite, HUGELY creative and WONDERFULLY talented species of being- otherwise known as: ‘The Hair and Make-up artist Extraordinaire’.

From their earliest creation these beautiful beings have never failed to dazzle us with their razor sharp eye, expert skill, ‘faultless’ attention to detail and general all round ‘fabulousness’!

One such being is M.A.C Senior Artist Nicole Thompson-the woman responsible for leading a team of 65 artists across excess of 40 shows this RAFW season…AND as Tangent found out, its ‘aaall in a days work’ for this ‘wonderful’ Woman.

Can you tell us your personal favourite RAFW shows to work on and why?

“I absolutely loved working on all the shows I was involved in at RAFW, whether directing the make-up being a part of the team, the shows have their own vision and their own personality that can’t help but take you in.

I really enjoyed working with Aurelio Costarella, Nookie and Lucette. Their collections were inspiring, their ideas were great and the teams were a pleasure to work with! “

Key Make-up look for those shows?

“These three shows showcased the warm color palette that was so popular this season in make-up. At Aurelio Costarella, golds, ochre’s and coppers spilled out from the eyes onto the face. Sparkly pigments and glitters were pressed onto the eyelids, coral and coppers creams were blended onto the cheeks and the gold leafing provided the finishing touch!”

Ket make-up trends coming through for this season?

“I saw a lot of warm color tones being used – moving away from the predictable charcoal smoky eye. Instead there were plenty of coppers/tans/chocolate browns being used.”

Key products required for this look?

“M.A.C Groundwork Paintpot ($35) is a great cream product that can be used on the eyes or the face. I used this product to contour the cheekbones and temples to give shape to the face, and also blended it around the eyes to contour and define!

MAC Tan Pigment ($39) Ahhhh this was one of my must have products for the week and just in general! It is one of those products that just looks good on ANYONE! Tan is color, with a soft metallic finish – heaven.”

How did you find yourself in the coveted position of M.A.C Senior Make-up Artist?

“Hard work, patience and falling in love with this iconic brand. I worked with M.A.C for just over four years before landing this dream gig.”

What does the role of M.A.C Senior Make-up Artist entail?

“I see myself as Australia’s M.A.C ambassador. M.A.C sets high standards in make-up artistry and the community and my job is to represent that in every way possible – most importantly through my make up!”

Finish This Sentence: A day in the life of Nicole Thompson- Senior M.A.C Make-up Artist Would be…?

“Spending the morning working with M.A.C Artists, followed by an afternoon photo shoot and on a really good day (once or twice a year!)…..It would end with a flight to Milan Fashion week!!!!”

Favourite part of your job?

“The fact that each day is different – I love to challenge myself and be surprised!”

What inspires you?

“What doesn’t inspire me?  Inspiration can come from everywhere, and it’s not always beautiful or what you think it should be. Sometimes mistakes can make the best ideas! I have a mild obsession for local and international Fashion magazines – they will eventually take over my house! I also love to watch other people work – everyone will see and do things differently and can be learned from!”

What is your make-up philosophy?

“There are no rules: let your attitude rule. And don’t be afraid of experimenting”

Best Make-up trick of all time?

“Don’t try to do it the same as anyone else! I learnt this years ago when I was studying make-up. Although I wanted to achieve the same finished result, I needed to find my own way of getting there. I’ve held onto this over the years and believe it’s the secret to achieving your own fabulous make-up at home”.

Til Next time dear beauty-loving Tangentines…

Bisous!

Ferni xxx

www.fernmadden.com