Backstage beauty’s come a long way since the early ’90s when top models did their own hair and makeup before hitting the runway. These days, the world’s top beauty pros collaborate with fashion designers in advance of the shows to create hair, makeup and nail looks that perfectly complement the season’s new collections. Some of the biggest beauty trends are born backstage and thanks to social media, we can see the magic unfold in real time. Here are the key insiders to follow during New York Fashion Week to make sure you keep up-to-date on the latest backstage beauty buzz.
Corey Tenold, @coreytenold
Photographer
You can spot Tenold backstage capturing that money shot of Bella Hadid everyone else is clamoring for. His feed consists of crisp, colorful, of-the-moment photos that are almost impossible to stop scrolling though.
Sophia Panych, @spanych
Deputy Digital Beauty Director, Allure
A backstage beauty fixture for the last 17 seasons, Panych is on a first-name basis with practically every beauty industry big-wig. She can be found backstage interviewing Guido Palau or Pat McGrath, while simultaneously capturing the perfect shot of that graphic liner you’ll be wearing next season. It’s all about multitasking.
Jenny Smith, @jennyatwoodsmith
Global Makeup Artist for NARS
When she’s not dreaming up drool-worthy makeup moments for fashion editorials or traveling the world on behalf of NARS, Smith can be found backstage helping to create makeup looks for designers including Creatures of the Wind, Alexander Wang, and Delpozo. You’re sure to get lost in the eye candy that is her Instagram feed. We can’t blame you.
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James Pecis, @jamespecis
Oribe Hair Care Global Ambassador
If you’re looking for a little hairspiration, head over to Pecis’ Instagram feed. The hairstylist serves up beauty realness on the tresses of the most stylish supermodels. Follow along during Fashion Week to see him create looks for top designers including Derek Lam and Brandon Maxwell.
Grace Lee, @graceleebeauty
Lead Makeup Artist for Maybelline
Beauty editors love running into Lee backstage, thanks to her bubbly personality and unique expertise. You’ll love her on social media for the same reasons. Follow along during Fashion Week to see the makeup looks she creates at Opening Ceremony, Public School, Jason Wu, and more.
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Kathleen Hou, @kathou
Beauty Director at New York Magazine’s The Cut
Hou’s interviewed every makeup artist, hairstylist, manicurist, and skincare expert in the business—not to mention the models and celebs. She’s got her finger on the pulse of beauty and an eye for what’s next. Follow along for a preview of the looks you’ll undoubtedly be wearing next season.
Justine Marjan, @justinemarjan
TRESemmé Global Stylist
With clients like the Kardashians, Shay Mitchell, and Olivia Culpo, celebrity hairstylist Marjan knows a thing or two about good hair. If you can see past the endless A-listers in her feed, you’ll find the inventive hair looks she’s created for some of the most sought-after fashion designers. This season, she’ll be backstage heading up hair teams for Creatures of Comfort, Cushnie et Ochs, and many more.
Cara Santana, @caraasantana
Actress, Beauty Expert, Fashion Blogger
Talk about a triple threat. This girl does it all. If you’re not familiar with Santana’s work as an actress or fashion blogger, perhaps you’re familiar with The Glam App, which she co-founded with Joey Maalouf. Santana will be attending countless shows and events during New York Fashion Week. She’ll also be partnering with brands like essie to share a first look at exclusive beauty content.
Alicia Torello, @aliciatnails
Manicurist
Torello is the go-to for many major brands and top designers during Fashion Week. Perhaps because in addition to being a highly skilled nail artist, she’s the ultimate cool girl, always bringing an unexpected edge to her work. If you thought nail art was over, Torello’s feed will change your mind. Follow her this season to see the nail looks she creates for Kith Sport, 3.1 Phillip Lim and more.
Fenty Beauty by Rihanna, @fentybeauty
Rihanna’s makeup line is finally becoming a reality and we’re totally here for it. The brand is set to launch on September 8, right in the middle of New York Fashion Week. Aside from endless rumors, we don’t know much at this point, but chances are the products will be used backstage at Sunday’s Fenty Puma by Rihanna show. Just. Stay. Tuned.
