Behind the Scenes with Lottie Stannard, Runway and Haute-Couture Make-up ArtistAt L.A. Fashion Week I first met Lottie Stannard and her work as I sat in the make-up chair for a touch-up, compliments of Smashbox. I admired the creative beautification she had performed on the person ahead of me and was thrilled to be in her chair. I was not disappointed. Lottie transformed me from a tired wreck into an elegant chick ready for another full night of shows and coverage. Lottie actually transformed 40 people that day, and all in about 15-20 minutes each. She embodied stamina.
I tracked down Lottie, now based in NYC, for a Q & A with this insider: What is the inspiration for your work? I have a background in graphic design, so a lot of my inspiration comes from color, but I also draw inspiration on the day of a shoot from the themes, clothing, hair, and the models themselves. How did you come into this art form? Completely by chance. I went to school for graphic design and had planned to do design. I was in London, working as an intern for a fashion magazine when I got my first taste of the fashion world, and after some pushing from close friends. Really the rest is history. Who are some of your favorite models to work with? The ones who take care of their eyebrows! What are some of your favorite working methods? Walk Agenda through your creative approach to a show. If I am keying a show, it really depends on all elements and what the designer ultimately wants to achieve. For fashion shows, there needs to be a balance of all the elements (hair, makeup and styling). After speaking to the designer about rough ideas, I usually feel inspired to create a certain look and will fine-tune that look until the designer is happy. Have you done bridal make-up? What are tips for bridal make-up or make-up application that needs to endure? I have done bridal. The best tip I can give other artists is to just make sure you aren't transforming the bride into a fashion model. Bridal is so different and it's important that the bride looks like herself but better. As far as longevity of make-up, I suggest a foundation primer and quality products. I really like Dior's Airflash foundation with a setting powder. Who are some of the current cosmetic lines you would endorse or products you prefer to use?
What is in your personal make-up bag? Laura Mercier crème silk foundation, Tarte and Chanel mascaras, MAC eye kohls in Minted and Teddy, Armani powder, Scott Barnes blush palette and Stila kitten eye shadow. That's it! I don't have much time to worry about my own makeup these days. Any tips for skincare? Always remove your make-up before bed (If you are lazy, buy Pond wipes!); always moisturize and make sure to exfoliate at least once a week. Any tips for aspiring artists new to the industry of haute couture? I am still getting there myself, but I think the best advice I can give is to never compromise your integrity, always practice, and never stop learning! For more of Lottie Stannard's portfolio or to contact her directly visit: www.lotstar.com Pamela Heath |
Lottie's work has become well known during the past four years she has risen in the profession. She has escalated, however, to the high demand of couture shows and shoots. Her celebrity clientele includes Mia Tyler, Juliette Lewis, Brenda Song, Sheryl Lee, and Evan Rachel Wood. Her styles span ethereal, natural, and avante-garde fashion. 
I actually use a little from just about every line, but some of my staples are Tarte (best gloss and mascara on the planet!), Smashbox (great foundations, primers, and gel liner), MAC (amazing pigment shadows, great liners and I could not work without some of their pro products), Dior (foundation, gloss, and mascara), Laura Mercier (foundation, loose powders and concealer) and Nars (best blush!). I am always trying new products. I just discovered TINte flavoured lip shines. They are amazing!
