Whilst in the midst of my summer sale, I wanted to take a brief interlude to introduce the lovely Lizzie, make up artist and hair stylist extraordinaire. I met Lizzie on my most recent Spring shoot, and instantly felt a connection with her and her style. We've kept in touch since and she recently sent over some photos of herself wearing my navy broderie Primrose Hill dress on a recent test shoot she did in the country; I loved them so much that I just had to share them with you! I hope you enjoy getting to know Lizzie as much as I did.
Justine x
Tell us a little bit about yourself ...
I’ve been working as a makeup artist for the past 30 years, studying at Farnham Art College and then did a Theatrical makeup course. I moved to London in the 80’s but 8 years ago moved out to West Sussex and the South Downs. I commute to work, but the pay off is living in such a beautiful part of the country. In between bringing up my 18 year old son and work, I relax by playing tennis as much as I can on my days off, walking ‘Spot' my Patterdale terrier and binge watching Marvel and "The Vampire Diaries”.
What do you love about your job?
Have been blessed over the years to travel to some amazing places; Cambodia, New York, Bahamas, Miami, & Mauritus to name a few, staying in some incredible houses and hotels. Often on shoots you get access to places that you would not usually be allowed to get into. The people I work with are also talented, creative and inspirational .
How and why did you end up practising as a hair and makeup artist?
When I was at art college we used to all watch music videos on early MTV, and being a bit of a “New Romantic” I loved "Steve Strange” and the makeup that he used to wear. I knew nothing about being a makeup artist, but found out that Phylis Cohen used to do his makeup so I started to look into it and thought - that’s what I want to do! With the help of The Enterprise allowance, a Government scheme that was run at the time, I moved to London and spent a year getting a Portfolio together.
Where would you recommend visiting this summer for a weekend away?
It has to be the South Downs, an hour out of London. The National park stretches from Winchester to Eastbourne. Stop off at pubs on the way and walk some of the most beautiful scenery. A day at Goodwood is always worth a visit as well…..I would recommend Winchester to Arundel as the first stretch...
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Don’t take the rejection personally…..and take time out to enjoy life……..its not all about work, work ,work...
What was your favourite piece from the SS18 shoot?
It has to be the Petticoat lane dresses, so comfortable and easy to wear for work as smart enough but also individual and not stuffy….I'm hoping that you do more Tartan for the winter as I can not get enough tartan in my wardrobe.
How would you describe your style?
Casual - I love oversized smock dresses, worn with army boots or high tops. I’m all about comfort but having an individual style, with quality materials used in pieces that don’t date. Simple styles, mens tailored pieces, baggy jeans and simple tops with a little bit of Victoriana added.
A massive thank you to Lizzie for the photos and for letting me interview her. Unfortunately the navy broderie Primrose Hill dress she wears is sold out (one left in white), but I do have Lizzie's favourite style from the shoot in stock - the Petticoat Lane dress in Irish Linen - in various sizes and colours, and now on sale for only £195.
Alternatively, please see below for a few extra handpicked items from my summer sale - on now till the end of August.
I'm currently working on my Spring Summer 19 collection and considering more white dreamy broderie Primrose Hill dresses within the collection, so do watch this space ...