Lookbooks

The application of make-up is one of the most important aspects  of creating a character. We can be anything or anyone we want to be with clothing, yet make-up seals the deal. Don't believe me; just take a look at the contestants on RuPaul’s Drag Race. Sure the men may have on faux derrieres and décolletage with skintight dress that give the illusion of a woman's body, yet once the face is on the EXTRAVAGAAAANZA begins.

This idea of creating a character must have hit home for MUA Rachel Wood, who after achieving a degree in Theatre Arts at Penn State, went on to study the craft that would soon turn into a flourishing career at London's Greasepaint College and The London School of Beauty and Makeup. Since then, Wood has been working as a freelance artist, dividng her time between NYC, London and LA. Her work has been featured on television for shows such as MTV's international hit show Plain Jane - a show where people receive on air makeovers-, in magazines such as Grazia, Instyle and Elle, as well as on runway shows where Wood not only designs looks yet also serves as the woman in charge coordinating assistants, operating with the press and sometimes even sorting out product sponsorship.

Here we talk to Wood about Kate Middleton's Jeans, Tangerines and the Hunger Games.

What color is inspiring you the most now?

Tomato reds, Tangerine and Corals.  It's fresh and bright ! It looks amazing on everyone and every skin tone.

Where or how will you feature these discoveries in your work?

On the cheeks with blushers and on lips.

What is the story behind this color and what inspired you to start using it?

It's everywhere from Kate Middleton's jeans to the lips of every hipster in Williamsburg. It's bright and gives a lift out of winter's grey skies.

Where do you look for inspiration?

Everywhere! I travel a lot for work so I love to see  how each culture and environment dress up and use makeup  to enhance their beauty. I love anything exotic ! I also look to great women in history such as  Marie Antoinette  - who is one of my favorite women.  She is the reason why we wear high heels and have celebrity hair sylists.

When you have “ artists” block how do you get your creative juices flowing?

I read a lot. I just finished the Hunger Games trilogy- I recon Fish tail braids and tanned glowing fresh skin is going to be huge this summer!

Any beauty tips?

Moisturize, and use SPF- clear fresh skin is the best canvas for any makeup look.  If shopping for a red lipstick, make sure any blemishes are concealed on your face as putting red on your lips will enhance any red marks on the face. Also it looks more balanced and less draining if you wear mascara. This way you only notice how  gorgeous this seasons tomato tone is on your lips rather that color draining from your face 

Rachel Wood is Rep'd by Artists by Timothy Priano