How to Get Started as a Fashion & Editorial Makeup Artist (Even From Scratch)

Fashion and editorial makeup is something so many makeup artists are drawn to — but it can also feel a little unclear where to actually start.

Do you need more experience first?
Do you need industry connections?
Or do you just… start creating?

If you’ve ever found yourself asking these questions, you’re definitely not alone.

The truth is, fashion makeup often feels like a big step — but in reality, it’s much more accessible than most artists think.

🎙️ Listen to the Full Podcast Episode

I recently shared a new episode on the Girl Meets Brush Podcast where I break this all down in a really simple, practical way.

🎙️ How to Get Started as a Fashion & Editorial Makeup Artist (Even From Scratch)
👉 [Listen to the Full Podcast Episode Here]

In this episode, I talk through how to begin, how to grow, and what actually makes fashion makeup stand out.

What Fashion & Editorial Makeup Actually Is

First of all, let’s simplify what we mean by “fashion makeup.”

Because it’s not just one thing.

Fashion and editorial makeup can include:

• Editorial shoots
• Creative beauty work
• Campaigns
• Runway and fashion shows

What makes it different from everyday makeup is that it’s often about creativity, storytelling and visual impact, rather than just wearability.

It’s about creating something that works for a concept, a shoot or a brief — and that’s where it becomes really exciting.

The Biggest Misconceptions

There are a few things that often hold makeup artists back from stepping into fashion work.

You might think:

“I need to be based in London.”
“I need an agent first.”
“I need years of experience before I can even try.”

But the reality is — most artists don’t get into fashion by being invited into it.

They get into it by creating the work themselves first.

And this is a really important shift.

Because it means you don’t have to wait for an opportunity — you can start building it.

How to Start From Where You Are

If you’re interested in fashion or editorial makeup, the best place to start is with your portfolio.

Your portfolio isn’t just about showing what you can do — it’s about showing where you want to go.

So if you want to move into fashion, your portfolio needs to start reflecting that direction.

That might include:

• Organising creative shoots
• Collaborating with photographers and stylists
• Testing ideas and concepts
• Experimenting with different looks

Some of the strongest fashion portfolios aren’t built on big productions — they’re built on simple, well-thought-out shoots with a clear creative idea.

Working for Free vs Paid Work

This is something that comes up a lot when building a portfolio.

When you’re starting out, collaborations and test shoots are a really valuable way to build your work.

They allow you to:

• create the looks you want
• gain experience
• work with other creatives
• build strong portfolio images

But where it can become tricky is when everything becomes about “exposure” — without real value coming back to you.

A simple way to approach this is to ask yourself:

What am I actually gaining from this?

A good collaboration should give you something clear:

• strong images for your portfolio
• experience
• connections
• or work that genuinely moves your portfolio forward

If it doesn’t — or if you’re repeatedly working for free without growth — it’s okay to start being more selective.

Because your time, your skills and your work all have value.

Why Working to a Brief Changes Everything

One of the biggest shifts I see in makeup artists is when they start working to a brief or concept.

Instead of just creating a look, you’re creating something with:

• direction
• purpose
• intention

And this is often where portfolios start to really grow.

Because the work becomes more focused and more aligned with the kind of opportunities you want.

Introducing the Fashion MUA Awards 2026

This is actually one of the reasons we created our Fashion Makeup Artist Awards 2026.

They’re designed to give makeup artists a clear starting point — or a way to take their work to the next level.

Through creative briefs and guided themes, the awards help you:

✨ Build strong, fashion-focused portfolio work
✨ Push your creativity
✨ Gain visibility within the industry
✨ Access opportunities to be published

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to elevate your work, this is a really powerful way to step into fashion makeup with purpose.

👉 Registration is now open
[See More Info on Our Awards Here]

Who This Is For

The Fashion MUA Awards are perfect if you:

• Want to build a stronger portfolio
• Are interested in fashion or editorial makeup
• Want more visibility for your work
• Feel ready to push your creativity
• Want clear direction and inspiration