Marvelous Makeup (Feat. Makeup by Bailey Waterbury)

February 19, 2017 by Bree Fesh in Interviews

If you know me, you know that I know nothing about makeup. Sure, sure, I know enough to keep myself from going out in public looking like Mimi from The Drew Carey Show, but other than some simple techniques, I am by no means a makeup artist. However, that is not the issue for my friend Bailey, in fact she has been working as both a freelance and retail makeup artist since 2015, and let me tell you, this girl knows her stuff. Recently, I was fortunate enough to not only sit down with Bailey and interview her about her craft for this collaboration, but also had the opportunity for her to style my makeup look for the latter half of this post!

Bailey Waterbury: Makeup Artist

So by now, you're all probably wondering how I know Bailey. Is she a makeup artist I met at one of the runway shows I've attended? A stylist for one of my many photo shoots? Well, not exactly anything that glamorous, Bailey and I actually met in our freshman year of college at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh. Both her and I were there studying photography, and though we initially got off to a rocky start, by our junior year we became friends and began working on a handful of photography projects together. The one thing I always noticed about Bailey in her photography work was her precision and he attention to detail, which also shows in her makeup artistry. So needless to say, I was thrilled that when I reached out to her she was more than happy to do yet another collaboration with me, and as always, I was absolutely amazed by her work.

Bree Fesh: To start off this interview, when did you begin practicing makeup artistry?

Bailey Waterbury: Well, I was always very interested in makeup, especially being a photographer and wanting to work in runway or editorial fashion. So, I'd have to say that I began practicing and experimenting with makeup my sophomore year of college. And in 2014 I became completely immersed in the makeup artistry world when I began working as a cashier at Sephora, and then went on to become a makeup artist in 2015.

BF: I know you were living in Arizona for a while back in 2015, did you continue working as a makeup artist for Sephora while you were there? If so, which part, and was working as a makeup artist in a more heavily populated area much different than working here in Pittsburgh?

BW: Yes! I continued working as a makeup artist for Sephora while I was living in Arizona, and I was in the Scottsdale location. I have to say that it was quite a bit different just because Scottsdale is such a travel destination so you are constantly meeting new clients and trying different things, I must say I did like that challenge though. Personally, though I love the Sephora I am working at here in South Hills Village, I feel as though I am not being pushed enough. I really love trying new looks and techniques and unfortunately here, it seems many people just like simpler, classic makeup.

BF: Since I know you also have great photography skills, I'm curious to know if photography is still your greatest passion, or has makeup artistry surpassed it?

BW: Originally, I wanted my photography and makeup artistry to go hand in hand so I could both style and photograph my models, however as I grew more skilled with makeup, I began to really fall in love with being a makeup artist. So though I still love photography, and honestly wish I could do more with it than I have been lately, I do think that it is safe to say makeup artistry is my main passion.

BF: Recently you've started your own makeup artistry Instagram page titled "bayyylien", what are your goals with it, and do you ever see yourself expanding outside of Instagram and potentially starting a blog of your own?

BW: The reason I started my page, bayyylien, is because I really wanted my art to stand on its own, opposed to constantly posting selfies to my personal Instagram *laughs*. However what I would like to achieve through bayyylien is to grow, and work with other artists. The types of people I would like to connect with are those who are either interested in conceptual art or even couture fashion. As for starting a blog i haven't even thought about that yet! I could see some potential in doing so, however before I decide on it, I would like to grown my Instagram's following first as well as start a YouTube channel that features makeup tutorials.

Plum Seduction

As I mentioned earlier (and as you can see above), Bailey was kind enough to actually do my makeup on top of letting me interview her for this collaboration! However, you're probably wondering how exactly we decided on these colors, so let me give you a little run down before I dive in to the complete look and outfit.

First of all, I have to be honest, not knowing anything about makeup and being an artist myself, I gave Bailey full reign of this makeup look. To plan it though, Bailey had asked me to simply pick out an outfit that I would like to model, give her the color scheme, and she'd work from there. So the night before our meeting I simply sent her some quick snapshots of my outfit so she could get her pallet ready, and needless to say she couldn't have done a better job at pairing!

For starters, I just have to say that Bailey's clients are in for an absolute treat when working with her. Bailey isn't only incredibly talented, but she is also highly personable and fun to work with as well! Before starting the process, Bailey made sure I was comfortable and walked me through the steps as she was doing them. She also has the patience of a saint and gave (much needed on my part) direction well as to what she needed me to do. So for this look, Bailey chose to style me using the following products:

Skin Care:

Color:

Lastly, about the outfit I chose to style for this collaboration. For this post I decided it would only make sense to style clothing from two Pittsburgh boutiques since I was working with a Pittsburgh based makeup artist, so I chose to style this sweater from ModCloth as well as this gorgeous skirt from Terry Jolo Brand. The reason I chose these pieces is because I like their cool winter look. The white sweater and purple skirt complement each other perfectly and create a nice contrast. To add the finishing touches to this look, I chose to pair these items with my Jenny Bird Flagstaff Earrings, my Hermes Pop H necklace layered with this Kendra Scott pendant, black tights, and a pair of high heeled booties, making this look casual yet sophisticated.

One Last Look

What are some of your favorite makeup looks? Let's chat about it in the comments below or you can tweet me at @StarkRavingChic! Have a marvelous makeup look of your own that you'd love to show off? Feel free to tag me in a post or on your Instagram story at @StarkRavingChic.

Also remember, if you want to see more of Bailey's awesome skills, be to follow her Instagram account @bayyylien! Later, dolls.

Xx, Bree

P.S. Pssssst! If you love the jewelry I styled in this post as much as I do, you can try Rocksbox for a whole month 100% FREE when you sign up using my promo code "starkravingchicxoxo". Don't know what Rocksbox is or how it works? You can read all about it, here!

Also, in case you haven't heard, I am now a proud member of rewardStyle and LIKEtoKNOW.it! Meaning you can shop straight from my Instagram feed when you click here or here. Don't know what LIKEtoKNOW.it is all about? Learn more, here!

Fashion Alley: My Night as a Runway Model

December 28, 2016 by Bree Fesh in Events

For those of you who have been reading my blog for sometime, you know that earlier this year I attended Pittsburgh's "Fashion Week Downtown" as well as the "Complex Runway Show". At both of these events, I attended as a member of the press and got to sit in the front row and snap photographs of gorgeous clothing and beautiful models. At the former show though, I'm sure many of you remember that I met fashion designer, Brian David, and collaborated with him for this section of my portfolio, as well as bought one of his gorgeous dresses.

Well, at the beginning of this month, I had the opportunity to once again work with Brian and attend another runway show, however this one was with a bit of a twist: I would be attending this show as a model. The reason Brian invited me to walk in this show was due to the fact the dress I purchased from him was one of the dresses that he wanted to showcase. The show itself, titled "Fashion Alley", took place at Hollywood Lanes in Dormont and also doubled as a benefit to help raise money for Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh. Naturally, the show was focused on clothing reminiscent of old Hollywood with hints of rock n' roll, and I have to say that I was honored to have the opportunity to dress up as one of my favorite Hollywood starlets, Marilyn Monroe.

Pre Show Primping

Prior to the show, as every model would, I was granted the opportunity to have my hair and makeup done by the incredibly talented stylists at La Pomponnee, located in Mt. Lebanon. The atmosphere of the salon was sophisticated and fun, and the staff was incredibly nice and easy to work with. The makeup artist I was scheduled with, Lauren, did an excellent job transforming me into Ms. Monroe and was very patient with me due the fact I had never had makeup done for a runway show before.

If you follow me on Instagram you may recognize this photo from my story.

After my makeup was completed, I switched over to the hair salon side of the shop and actually had my hair styled by the owner of La Pomponnee, Kristen. While Kristen was styling my hair, her and I got to chatting about La Pomponnee and it's 25 year anniversary approaching next year. Of course this is a huge mile stone for any business, so (spoiler alert) I will actually be interviewing Kristen and doing a story on the salon early next year.

Want to see my full transformation? Check it out here, here, and here!

The My Experience on the Runway

Lastly, I have to talk about my wonderful experience both backstage as well as walking in my first runway show. To be quite honest, the whole affair from start to finish was incredibly surreal to me. Though I am a confident person, I have never been one to think of myself as overly attractive, let alone attractive enough to be a model. However, due to the styling of the ladies at La Pomponnee and Brian's gorgeous dress, I felt absolutely radiant.

Divauna Taravella and I backstage prior to the show.

Models Left to Right: Malori Bailes, Bree Fesh (aka ME!), Cheryl Mills, Bianca Camille Clark, Divauna Taravella, Joanna Wentling, and Kimberly Stubblefield (Lapsley)

But don't think those are the only two things that gave me a bit more confidence that evening at Fashion Alley. It was also the support I received and time I got to spend with the lovely women (and men that are not pictured with us backstage, sorry Brian and Dallas!) in the photos above. Though I have worked with (mostly) all of these ladies before, I was always behind the camera when I did. However, each and every one of them was so kind and welcoming to me, that it made an already dazzling evening even more enjoyable! And now the moment I'm sure most of you have been anticipating throughout this article, here are some photos caught of myself and the other lovely ladies that walked for Brian David in the Fashion Alley show!

Image courtesy of Penn Live, Photographer, Lisa Wardle

Image courtesy of William Pittman Photography

Final Thoughts

In closing, I have to say that my experience as a model in a runway show was incredibly enjoyable and exciting! If I ever had the opportunity to participate as a model again I definitely would, what can I say I loved being pampered at La Pomponnee and all the cameras flashing at me while on the runway was quite thrilling as well. However, this experience also gave me a greater appreciation for what the models do to prep for a show and in some ways has given me a whole new prospective on how I personally will photograph runway shows from here on out.

Which dress by Brian is your favorite? Tell me about it in the comments below or tweet me at @StarkRavingChic!

Xx, Bree

Brian David: Designer

October 26, 2016 by Bree Fesh in Interviews

In my post about Fashion Week Downtown last month, I had mentioned that designer Brian David and I were planning a collaboration. Well, I'm so excited to say that is is that much anticipated collaboration! Earlier this month I had the wonderful opportunity sit down and chat with Brian about his work, as well as work with models April, Cheryl, Joanna, and Malori who modeled Brian's gorgeous clothing.

The entire set consisted of fifteen different designs ranging from couture gowns to beautiful suits. Though I have my top four favorites shown throughout this article, in case you missed it, I now actually have a new section at the top of my page titled "PORTFOLO", which when you drop down and click Brian's name, will take you to the rest of his beautiful designs! (See I did make good on that New Year's Resolution to focus more on personal photography projects--I forgot how much I enjoyed Photoshop!)

About the Designer

Like I said at the beginning of this post, I actually had the chance to sit down with Brian and interview him about his work, inspirations, and some of his future plans. I also got to pick his brain about his thought on ways to strengthen the fashion community here in Pittsburgh, all while photographing his beautiful gowns in his Venetia home. Before I dive into the interview though, I just want to take this chance to say along with his impeccable craftsmanship of his gowns and extreme talent with fashion design, my favorite part of working with Brian was he was incredibly down to earth. Which made him an absolute blast to work with for both me and the models!

Model: Cheryl Mills — Model: **Cheryl Mills**

The Interview

Bree Fesh: So firstly, are you originally from Pittsburgh and if not where are you from originally and how did you end up here?

Brian David: I am from the Pittsburgh area. I was actually born and raised here in Venetia, PA!

BF: When did you start to take an interest in fashion design and what made you take interest in it?

BD: Clothing design is something I’ve always had an interest in. I’ve always known that this is what I wanted to do. As a small child, the first time I saw my mom sew a button on to a shirt, I took an interest in making clothing. Like I said I just always knew!

Model: Joanna Wentling — Model: **Joanna Wentling**

BF: Did you attend school for fashion design, if so where?

BD: I am actually self taught, but I give so much credit to my boss Marianne Krostyne. She owns a Costume studio located in North Shore called Krostyne Studio. There we make costumes for brodway shows, Caribbean cruises etc.. My job there is to create 2D renderings and turn them into the 3d product. What happens is we make bid for the designer, and if approved designers send us the fabrics and necessities needed to create the product.

BF: Did you work under any other designers before working on your own?

BD: No, I actually got my start making garments for people in high school for prom. By my senior year I had 4 dresses made and four alterations. I’ve now even had two of those girls come back and have me make their wedding gowns.

Model: April GildeaPsssssst! I actually ended up falling in love with this dress that April is modeling so I ended up buying it!! An #OOTD will be coming soon. — Model: **April Gildea**
*Psssssst*! I actually ended up falling in love with this dress that April is modeling so I ended up buying it!! An #OOTD will be coming soon.

BF: Since your designs are so unique, what designers are some of your biggest inspirations?

BD: I get a lot of inspiration from old hollywood. I just love the classy and sophisticated looks of the Golden Age in Hollywood. Generally I don’t watch what other designers are doing because I feel it hurts the creative process. I want my designs to look like my designs. I wouldn’t want some one to tell me my work looked like any other designers because that’s what makes my garments stand out. This being said, a lot of my inspiration actually comes from the fabrics I work with. Much like how Michelangelo looked at sculpting is how I look at designing clothing, I will just see the fabric and just instantly know what it sound be, it’s just my job to turn it into that particular garment.

BF: Do you have a favorite fabric to work with?

BD: No, not really. That's just because they all have their pros and cons. Every fabric is unique to itself.

BF: What do you find to be the most challenging part of designing clothes?

BD: Drag queens. *laughs* But in all seriousness, the biggest challenge for me is getting everything someone wants in a garment but keeping it in the clients price range. Simply because a garment is only worth as much as the client is willing to pay for it.

BF: Where do you see yourself five years from now and where would you like to be?

BD: Well my big ultimate goal is to show at NYFW, but on a smaller scale, in 5 years I would like to be financially independent and not have to rely on my 9-5 job. I would love just to be able to work from home on designing my garments.

BF: How do you see the fashion industry growing in Pittsburgh and what would you like to see more of?

BD: I’d like to see the return of Pittsburgh Fashion Week or a repeat of Fashion Week Downtown. Mainly because it brings more exposure to the community and would make us more notable. There are just so many incrediblytalented designers here, but I feel like they are more of a hidden gem in Pittsburgh.

BF: What is the best piece of advice that you can give to fashion designers just starting out?

BD: Get organized. Lack of organization will be anybody's down fall. And don’t let people push you around. Know your plan, go in with that plan of attack, and don’t waver from it.

Final Thoughts

So to my fellow members of the Pittsburgh fashion community, what would you like to see more of? Tell me about it in the comments below! Also, if you'd like to get in touch with Brian about any of his dresses from this article or my portfolio, you can reach him on both Instagram and Facebook. You can also see more of his work on YouTube.