When going through the makeup counters at department stores, most women of colour often find that not all cosmetics lines cater to their beauty needs. In other words, it can be difficult to find makeup for African skin. Some brands simply do not have foundations that go dark enough, causing one to look washed out, while others may lack the colours that will show up on darker skin. When it comes to make up services for women of colour it gets worse.
It is not as easy for black women in Australia to access make up services as it is for white women. Some women of colour that have approached main stream makeup artists are often told to bring their own make up unless of course when one approaches make up counters in department stores such as Clinique and Napoleon Perdis as they have the capacity to browse through a few colours before finding your match. That is why we couldn’t help but get excited when we heard about Sydney based Michelle Majuru.
She is slowly becoming Sydney’s most sought after makeup artist that not only works with all skin colours but has a high speciality for working with women of colour. She focuses on make up for all occasions including bridal make up and I had the pleasure of working with this women in February for my wedding. Her skill and experience is definitely superlative.
Born in Zimbabwe and raised in Australia, Michelle also known as “Mimie Jolie” is a self-taught make up artist, that fell in love with the world of beauty and fashion at the age of nine. While at University Michelle was the “go to girl” amongst her friends and relatives for makeup, and soon after finishing her degree she also then realized she wanted to go professional with make up artistry and began setting up her business and doing freelance work . I had an opportunity to meet with Michelle and discuss her insight into what inspires her, the challenges of being in the industry and some of her beauty tips.
As a recognized makeup in our community, what was your inspiration to become involved in the beauty business?
My inspiration to be in the beauty business was something that I realized when I was 13. I have always loved fashion and make up and grew up and surrounded by artistic things. I had a different fashion sense than most of my friends. They would come over to my house on the weekends asking me to do their hair and makeup, and ask to borrow clothes to wear. Friends & relatives suggested that I do something along with what I loved but at the time I chose sport which I was always good at and loved. While I was studying I was doing makeup on the side as a hobby and then when I finished Uni, I decided to take it further by becoming a freelance and creating a YouTube channel and showcasing my work.
A bride’s special day is so important and can end up being rather stressful. What are some of the things that you do to minimise added stressors?
I would try to include personalized services individually and be flexible to attend their homes or venues so that they don’t become stressed about what they need to know and how they going to get thing done. I usually set up trial makeup prior to the wedding (several months before) so to give them an idea of what they will look like also I am always open to suggestions of what they had in mind. We will do different looks so that when it does come to the wedding day it’s less stressful.
What are some of the challenges that you have experienced as a professional makeup artist?
Uncooperative clients ..you will always get these.
Can you share a few ideas about creating a look that will have our readers on the “cutting fashion” edge for any special events?
As we all know, fashion is always changing. I would suggest finding a latest trend that’s in style and re-creating it to make it your own, without trying too hard. Personally, I always like trying new things from classy old school, vintage, etc and there are a lot of these styles out there at the moment that can be modified to your own.
Today’s woman is busier than ever. What is the easiest/quickest way to turn a day/work look into something that works for night a out?
I would recommend wearing an outfit that can easily be turned into a night outfit. Adding some accessories, lipstick, hair down or a simple ponytail or bun, these always work for any look.
Some trends can feel a bit out-there for the average woman. Especially style-conscious women of “a certain age” (aka me) who wish to remain current but fear looking as if they’re trying too hard. What are some comfort-zone-friendly ways to rock the latest trends?
Wear what you feel comfortable in. There is no point of trying too hard and wearing something your body doesn’t feel comfortable in. Keep it simple but edgy.
How can people contact you or see your work?
Instagram and Facebook page “Styled by Mimie”
Subscribe on my YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/user/StyledByMimi
Kim Kardashian’s wedding makeup 2014: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=yql0jf1uSQI
Author: Mini
Images: Michelle Majuru.
#Mimie Jolie #Michelle Majuru #Mini and Char #August 2014
I love it. Thank you!!
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