Born and raised in New York, Carolina Gonzalez grew surrounded by a Latin family of musicians and painters who inspired and supported her creative endeavors, in spite of their limited economic capabilities. «It made me fearless and I owe them everything,» she says. A stint as a receptionist for designer Carolina Herrera sparked her passion for the fashion industry, kickstarting a career in make-up that has landed her gigs with top celebrities and glossy magazines. In this interview, she tells us about how she got to creating the heavenly faces of Victoria’s Secret Angels, what she loves about her job, tricks of the trade and advice for aspiring make-up artisits. Read on!
When did you know a career in beauty was for you?
Well, I guess at a very young age, when I fell in love with drawing, which I still do from time to time. After that I took up painting. I loved to draw people, and women in particular. I find beauty in everyone and everything. Doing make-up is the same, my canvas just changed is all.
Who have been your biggest clients and most exciting people to work with until now?
I’ve worked with many celebrities in all 19 years of my career so far, including Shakira and Lenny Kravitz. But I’d have to say that my favorite has been working with the Victoria’s Secret Angels: Candice Swanepoel, Adriana Lima, and Alessandra Ambrosio. Not only are they any make-up artist’s ideal canvas, but also beautiful human beings on the inside.
Who have you not worked on that you would kill to get in your chair?
JLo!
How did you start working for Victoria’s Secret?
Through a photographer they booked that I worked with a lot at the time.
Do you prefer fashion shoots or fashion shows?
I prefer shoots. Shows are too stressful!
Do clients always ask you for a specific look or do you have the freedom to choose it yourself?
Clients normally just show and tell me the inspiration, whether it be swipes or a film for reference, which I then do my interpretation of; they allow me be creative within that.
How do you normally prepare for a session?
I start preparing soon after I learn what the inpiration is by put together possible looks and buying anything I may need. And of course, I make sure all my tools and brushes are clean.
What is your favorite look to create?
There’s two: Natural looks that accentuate a woman’s natural beauty and period make-up.
Where do you normally look for inspiration?
I don’t really look for it; it just comes to me. Sometimes it may not even be visual, but via a song.
Are you big on makeup yourself? What products can you not live without?
I’m not actually…haha! But, I cannot live without Creme de La Mar.
What 3 products would you say are essential for the everyday woman?
A good moisturizer, mascara and a lipstain.
Do you have any secret tools or techniques that you always use?
I contour with mauvey greys and taupey browns
What are the biggest trends in makeup for next season?
Shades of luminous reds, corals, pearl pinks and pastels.
Tell us what you love most about your job.
I love to make women look and feel beautiful…it’s just so rewarding to me.
What practical advice would you give to an aspiring make-up artist?
Assist as many artists as you can, always be professional and never take anything personal.
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