Get the Look. "Lip Statement"

Hopefully you have been following my blog and have already seen the first 2 videos I did for www.modelinia.com and Maybelline New York. This is the 3rd one that just went up on Modelinia's website. Its a cool site for you fashionistas so check them out.Enjoy

What's in my kit?

People always want to know what I use for products, extensions, and tools. In this installment of “Hair’ssss Johnny”. I’m going to divulge some of my secret weapons. I don’t need any disgruntle hairstylist contacting me saying “I used the hairspray that you said you use, and it didn’t work for me” Please remember it’s not the tools or products, but it’s how you use them.

Product List: Here are some of my favorite hair products that I turn to get the job done. Some are expensive pro brands and others you can get at a drug store.

For Volume: Phyto Volume Actif, Profound Beauty Volume Spray, Tresseme 24 hour Body Root Lift, and Garnier XXL Volume.

Hair Spray: Kerastase Double Force, Goldwell Big Finish, Orlando Pita for T3 Control Spray.

Pomades and other stuff: Moroccan Oil, Mazani Curl Wax, T3 Hair Polish, Phyto Shine Cream, Karastase smoothing serum. Bumble and Bumble Sumo Tech, Kiwi Manipulating Wax, Tresseme Frizz Cream.

Tool List: What I use for heat tools.

Dryer: T3 Evolution Flat Iron: T3 Wet to Dry

Curling Irons: I mainly use Hot Tools Marcel Irons in every size

Wave Iron: R-Session Tools double barrel iron

Hot Rollers: Conair Velvet hot rollers.

For Brushes: I have an assortment of round brushes in both boar bristle and metal core. I also like comb-out brushes and bone rat tail combs.

Hair : I have more wigs and hair then anyone would ever need. I have long, short, light and dark.In most cases I use clip in hair extension for advertising or catalogue shoots. I found that I can get away using the colors: 2, 4, 27, 4/30, 27/613 on almost everyone. If the color is not a perfect match it tends to give the natural hair more dimension.



And last but not least I have an array of hair pins, bobby pins, and elastics.My kit consist of a 26inch suitcase that holds everything perfect.

The list can go on and on, but I figured I would give someone just starting out the basics to get them going. As you grow as a stylist your kit will grow with you. Remember buying the best and most expensive products and tools are not going to magically make you a better hairdresser. I love to go into a CVS and buy new products that don’t cost a million bucks. Have fun and don’t be afraid of experimenting .

The Makeup Show NYC 2009

I know I am a bit tardy with this blog but it’s for good reason.

Saturday night before the first day of The Makeup Show NYC, I was feeling a bit under the weather. I chalked it up to allergies seeing as it is that time of the year. Sunday came and I didn’t feel much better. Because I forgotten my allergy meds ,I assumed my fix would soon be in my system once I reached my NYC dwelling. I arrived the city and realize that my Claritin where nowhere to be found. I decided to tough it out for Monday . Monday morning arrived and in a sleep deprived daze I make my way to the Metropolitan Pavilion, the Makeup Show NYC‘s venue. I was scheduled to do a makeup workshop and was hoping I could pull it together.

As I checked into the front desk and picked up my (valid) name tag, I notice the place was already buzzing with excitement. It was couldn't’t wait to make the rounds and see what products I didn’t have, and to greet all my friends at the booths of the products I use and love.

One of the first people I see is Eve Pearl. She comes over to interview me on camera for her Youtube site. It’s a good thing too because now there is documented proof of my illness. Eve is a wonderful person and a talented makeup artist. She has won 5 Emmys for her skills and will let anyone who asks ,take a picture with one. She has her own product line and a beautiful store here in NYC, and is the author of the book”Plastic Surgery Without The Surgery”. She is one busy woman. .

My next stop is to see Debbie Bondar at Face Atelier. There are a few things I cannot go without in my kit and those are, Face Atelier foundation, Peach Glaze Blush and Face Finish. Making a stop at her booth is a must so I can stock up. Debbie has always been so generous to me and her products have become a staple in most of the kits of the makeup artist I know.

Every few steps, I run into people that I know and some that I don’t. I’m asked if it’s OK to have my picture taken with them and I with hesitation agree. Not because I’m a diva but because I looked and feel like crap due to the illness that has consuming my body for the last few days. Who wants to pictures all over the Internet looking a hot mess? Not me. Sure enough those unflattering pictures made it into cyberspace and FACEBOOK. Thanks guys . It’s great to meet the people behind the blogs that mention my name from time to time. So now it’s my turn. Shout out time. “What up Erin from Scandalous Beauty.” "Hi Dawn from Pursebuzz."

I make a pit stop at The Powder Group booth to set my kit aside and meet and greet all the new TPG interns. There I run into Yvette aka GirlcanPaint from Youtube. She had once asked me to give her a makeover. I setup my kit at the booth sit Yvette in a chair and decided to use my 9x9 collection that was displayed and for sale. As I transformed her eyes into what started to resemble a peacock feather I noticed that my workshop was in 15 min. So I quickly packed up and made my way to my classroom.

The room was filled to capacity with eager makeup artists wanting to watch me demonstrate the dos and don’ts of Bridal and Special event makeup. No matter how many times I teach this natural bridal makeup demo , the students always end up doing a Smokey eye during thier hands-on workshop. So I figured I might as well give them what they want and do my version of a wearable Smokey eye. They all seemed pleased and my hopes are they took something home with them that they can use. As the class ended so did my immune system.

I had a few minutes at the end of the day to make a quick run around. To some of my other favorites like: Makeup Forever, YoungBlood, Kissable Couture, OCC , MAC and Smashbox.

The show was so amazing. Its growth each year is a testament of our industry. In a time of economic hardship the attendance was the largest to date. The energy level was at an all time high and you could barely get people to leave. Many of the vendors I talk to sold out of merchandise and confessed that they had record breaking sales. The reviews are in from many of the Youtube makeup gurus and all give it a A+ . Thank you Michael Devellis and The Powder Group for bringing us together.

Even thought I was sick as a dog I was glad I could be a part of The Makeup Show. If you have never been to The Makeup Show I suggest you mark it on your calendar for next year. You should also check out the website to see if there is one comming close to you.

I'm still recovering from what ever I had and that’s my excuse for the lag in blog posts. Please check out all the links in this post to check out the sites of the people and products that I love.

Get the Look 2 Grey Luxe

This is the 2nd "Get the Look"video I did for Modelinia.com and Maybelline New York. I hope you find it useful. Give it a try.

Cupcakes ,Marly & Me

People who know me well know I have a fondness for all things sweet. Cupcakes have become a dangerous addiction of mine. I recently found this new little bakery in West Hartford called. "A Little Something" and they have the best cupcakes in town. The size of a cupcake is perfect for guilt free consumption. Yes,I know the calories are still there ,but who wants to think about that when your staring at the cream cheese frosting that adorns a red velvet cupcake. What exactly is a red velvet cupcake any how? Ive been trying to figure that out myself. Reading the ingredients don't help in solving the mystery of this blood red spongy pillow of sweet goodness. Chocolate , vinegar, sugar, it doesn't add up. All I know is that it taste great.

On a recent shoot a model named Amanda shared with me the cutest video ever of her son Marly. It was evidence that I'm not the only one that shares the same joy of one of the best confections ever created, the CUPCAKE! I only wish that I could publicly show the same emotion ,and celebrate the cupcake as little Marly deservedly displays in his cupcake dance. So the next time you find yourself in the presence of a bite size yumminess do as Marly would do "SING and DANCE for cupcakes
"

Sports Illustrated Glamazons

Getting to work on some of the most beautiful women in the world can my job pretty easy at times. How could you possibly screw up on those 5'10 genetic freaks? Ive worked with quite a few SI Swimsuit models. Selita Ebanks, Angie Everheart, Fernanda Motta, Ariel Merideth,Tori Paver,and Yasmine Brunet. In this video im getting Tori and Yasmin ready for the SI Press party . And below are a couple pictures of Fernanda Motta from the 2 years I did her hair and makeup for the same Party. What I love about Fernanda was she let me do what I wanted both times. She is so gorgeous it was fail proof. The first year I went fresh with the makeup and gave her hair more defined waves. The next year I decided to change things up. I went smoother with the hair and a bit more sexy with makeup. I think both looks fit her well.
Fernada is now the Host of Brazil's Next Top Model. And is With Next Models.

When I work with these Glamozons I cant help to laugh to myself thinking of all the guys that teased me at a young age for chasing my passion . I bet they wished the knew how to create supermodel waves now .

Blue Baiul

It was in 94. I sat in my living room glued to the TV watching the figure skating competition during the winter Olympics . I was anticipating the show down between Nancy and Tonya. My focus quickly turned from the 2 Americans to the little pixie from the Ukraine.

It seems like yesterday when that black swan took to the ice, and at the same time took the breath from my chest. I had never seen skating like that before. Where did the ballerina on skates come from? She not only captured the hearts of everyone watching (except for Nancy fans) with her skating, but she also had a heart breaking story of being a orphan. Seeing her win the gold was like a perfect ending to a Cinderella story.

She stood on the podium tears pouring down her face, doing what Oprah describes as the “Ugly Cry.” She held her gold metal up to the heavens so her proud Mother who was watching could boast of her talented daughter to all the other angels. It was a moment I will never forget.

As I watched with tears in my eyes I couldn't’t help but notice another thing that stood out to me. It appeared to be a halo. Was it her guardian angel? As I moved closer to the TV I figured it out . It was back lit frizzy pony tail from a bad over processed perm that hung right below her occipital bone. Her bangs where formed into a crisp sculpture that stood high on the front of her head. It resembled a title wave that was about to emerge with the tears flowing down her face. I looked into the TV and said “Gurl I got to do your hair.”

It was shortly after that day , all the news stations where reporting that our new Olympic champion would be moving to a new skating rink in Ct. She was going to be only a short distance away. Do I have the power of the “SECRET”? Did I will this to be? Was I actually going to be this gifted child’s coiffure?

As fate would have it, I got a call at the salon one day. The voice on the other end had a strong Russian accent that was requesting an appointment with “Jonny”. It was Oksana Baiul. The day she sat in my chair the day our friendship started. And I’ve been doing her hair ever since.

Oksana and I have been through a lot together, and have become super close. I’ve traveled the country with her doing her hair for numerous shows, shoots and commercials. And I often tell her if she wasn’t a skater she most likely would be doing hair and makeup. My nickname for her is “Product Whore.” She cant get enough of it. The down side of her passion is that sometimes she thinks she is a Hairdresser. She not afraid of change nor is she afraid of doing it herself.

This past weekend I got a voice mail from her. She sounded desperate as she begged me to caller her back. I call her worried that she has some tragic news, and tragic it was. With a quivering voice she says “John can you help me?” I ask “what’s wrong”? With hesitation in her voice she answers “John I turned my hair blue. I think I got the wrong blonde color.” I start laughing at her as I have done in the past when ever she has turned her hair a funny color. She tells me its not funny and that she has a show the next day, and doesn’t know what to do. I make the suggestion of a blue dress or something that going to match her new hair. When that failed to humor to her I give her secret formula to try to take her sapphire hair back to blonde. My concoction worked enough for her to get through the weekend.

I promised her I'm going to fix it. I will hound her the entire time with “ I told you so” all the while knowing this wont be the last time I get this same phone call. I guess it’s a good time for us to catch up seeing as we both are always busy.Yes, this ice queen will once again be blonde with no guarantee that it will remain that way for long.

Hello Mexico

Our far south North American brethren can’t seem to get a break these days. Over the last couple of years they have gotten pummeled by hurricanes, when they finally rebuild and make attempts to once again welcome tourist, they are then faced with a drug war, when the media attention starts to become less informative about the violence ,they have new drama, the Swine Flu. With all the media attention Mexico is getting ,it got me thinking of my last visit.

Mexico has been a vacation destination for me several times. It’s inexpensive, beautiful and in most cases easy to get to. I say "most cases" because up until my last visit, my Mexico travel always seemed like a hop, skip, and jump. I have been for work, and for fun. Direct flights to Cozumel or Cancun usually make for an easy trip. My last trip to Mexico was for work. It was a cover shoot for Hello Magazine with Geri Halliwell. Being a product of the 80's 90's I was excited to get to work with the petite lady once known as Ginger Spice.

This time I was going to a different part of Mexico. Me being geographically challenged I just assumed it would be the usual 4 to 5 hour trip. I could already taste the virgin Pina Colada that always greets you at the door as you check into any Mexican resort. After taking a glance at my travel schedule I realized that the taste of coconut and pineapple would not be quenching my thirst any time soon. I first landed in Houston and had a 5 hour layover there that seemed like forever. Finally at some point late afternoon I touched ground in Puerto Vallarta . I was so happy to finally get off the plane and feel the warm humid air and the smell of salt water.

I collected my luggage and made my way to the airport exit. I did not know exactly where I was going, or what I was supposed to be doing. I just followed the herd that seemed to have the same urgency as I did. I noticed a bright pink card with my name on it waving through a crowd of on lookers. I make my way over to person holding my name and he starts instructing me in Spanish. I looked at him and tilt my head, like a puppy that heard a high pitched sound. I do not understand a word he said. I decided it would be easier to just follow him. He walks over to a little airport cafe and sitting there is the rest of the crew. In this crowd is my very good friend Billy B. He is doing the makeup and is the one who referred me to do the hair on this job.

We board a white van and I'm trilled to be arriving at this exclusive resort that I looked up on Goggle before my departure. Billy has made this trip before and suggest to the driver to stop at Wal-Mart to pick up snacks. I ask how long before we get to this tropical paradise and I'm told it’s a 3 hour drive. Ughhhhhh. It didn't help that we found ourselves in a traffic jam due to the fact that we where following a pickup truck filled with natives dressed in white tank tops and bright orange gym shorts. In front of this truck was a girl dressed in the same theme running with what looked like the Olympic torch. I'm thinking to myself "how the hell are they going to get that to China?" During our long ,long ,long drive Billy is warning us with stories from his last visit. 'The last time I was here I was bitten by a Brown Recluse spider and had to have my ass drained".

We arrive to the resort in total darkness and I'm already itching with the thought of a spider bite. I get into my room and pull down the sheets looking for any critters that might contribute in the possibility of me having to have my ass drained. I notice a fact sheet on one of the tables and there is a picture of some fierce looking animal on it that looks like something between a anteater and a raccoon, it is standing on its hind legs with the caption underneath it that says "Do Not Feed Me" I was OK with that request. I try to sleep with one eye open not knowing what might enter my room or my bed without permission.

I wake up bright and early and head over to Geri's suite that is right across a tiled hallway. We are all half asleep and with Billy's arrival we start the process of turning Geri into a bronze beach goddess. We fight the humidity trying to keep the hair curled and the makeup on her face. It’s not long before she is ready for her close up. Her post Bluebell body was looking amazing as she tried on one swimsuit after another. She finalizes her wardrobe and we begin 2 days of shooting.

Although there where a few bumps in getting to my final destination, the trip itself was amazing. I got to shoot with a the great photographer Richard McClaren, work with one of my best friends Billy B and play in the tresses of one of the nicest pop stars of our time Geri Halliwell. Here are a couple of the pictures from our Mexican excursion. Trust me it was as hot outside as she looks in these pictures.

Geri and her beautiful dauther Bluebell.

I recently did a series of makeup videos for the web site Modelina and Maybelline New York. This is the first of 5 videos showing the hottest looks shown on the fall 2009 NYC runways. Check out both websites for updates. Enjoy the look and get your "Liner On".

All things Tacky at IBS, including my entry.

Its Tuesday and I have the day off. The International Beauty Show is at the Javits Center and I need to do a little professional shopping, so I decided to take a walk.

I was determined not to pay to get into the show. So me being the cheapskate that I am, I went scrabbling through all of my saved credentials from all the shows and events that I've attended in the past. I knew I held on to this cluster of knotted cords and tangled plastic badges for something. And what do I find? A IBS badge from about 3 or 4 yrs ago. BINGO,SCORE,Awesome. I'll give it a try.

I arrive at the Javits center and take notice of other attendees badges that look nothing like the one that I have so confidently pinned on my belt loop. I figured I would cover my fraudulent credential with my shirt ,find the oldest person at the entry check point and try the look busy and give a quick flash as I walked in .

I start my investigation and found my lady. She is a older black woman with short silver hair.Its styled to the nines like she was a model for one of the vendors. This was my girl. I make a b line to her and I pretend that I'm on my phone. I give her a big smile and slightly lift my shirt exposing only the bottom half of my plastic badge. I enter with all the confidence in the world. My first foot passes the velvet rope and I hear "Oh - wait - a - minute, Whats that?" I reply with "What my Badge?" She says " Let me see that. I ain't never seen a badge like that before". I'm thinking if you worked here 3 or 4 yrs ago you would have. She read the badge a couple of times with a puzzled look on her face ,but gives in when she reads the word "educator". She said "Oh your a educator, well I guess your OK"... Whew! I'm in.

I make my way through the isles looking for the items on my check list. Each isle was crowed with people looking to spend their money on colored hair extensions, glitter and cheap jewelry. I fight my way through the masses and notice the excitement in faces of the students who are so impressed with all things Tacky. I have a flash back of being just impressed with the over the top hair creations and endless rows of cheap useless products when I was first introduced to IBS many yrs ago. I had a constant feeling of de ja vue as each isle seem to look just like the last. Booths of scissors, extensions, capes, brazilain hair straitners and blowdryes seem to repeat themselves every 50 feet.

I get a call from my friend Rita who I went to hair school with and now is a teacher at the school we attended.She said "I'm here in NYC at the show, are you here?" I said "yes". I proceed to meet her in the food court. We walk around for a bit and I mention to her that I need a haircut. She said "Oh lets go to my friend, she is cutting hair at some clipper booth." She walks me over to this booth and the "Friend" sits me on stage and tells her audience whats she is about to do with my hair . I gave her free reign . My only request was that I want a cool and fashionable haircut. The buzzer glides over my head a few times and she is spinning me on her cutting stool enough to make me just dizzy enough not to care what she is doing. She makes the announcement that's she is finished and I hear a couple hesitant claps from the onlookers as she brushes off my neck. I never saw what she was doing but I'm just happy to have my haircut. It has to look good right? She was on stage teaching people how to use clippers. After the motion sickness from the spinning chair settles I search for a mirror, unfortunately for me I found one. It looks like what my boyfriend Rich describes as a "Major Dad Haircut" Its kinda like a bad military haircut and a flattop but somehow being neither. She cut my sideburns into these two things that resemble spikes on the side of my head, and I honestly haven't even try to see the back of my head yet. I'm thinking this was Karma for scamming my entry into this show.

I was able to get all the things on my shopping list. During my shopping I came across a few things that made me smile and thought I would share them with you. a sun visor with fake Don King hair attached.who needs highlights when you can use tinsle?

German GQ May 2009

Brian Keith is a young talented photographer that Ive work with before a while ago. We kinda lost contact for a little bit but reconnected recently via facebook. We have tested a few times in the past , but I never had any of his work in my book.

A lot of times in this business,you might have a conversation with a photographer,or a stylist ,that sounds something like this . "Hey ,whats up? We should do something.'' Yeah lets do something. cool ." But then nothing ever happens. It might be because its difficult to organize your time, or it may be someone feeding you BS. But in any case you somehow become immune to it, because of how frequent you hear the same script.

One day via facebook chat Brian and I had that very conversation. I said "Brian lets shoot" And he replied " Yeah lets so something" I assumed the conversation would end as it often does on the script, But he followed with " How about this Sunday."I stuck to the script with a reply . "cool"

Sunday was getting closer and Brian asked me if I knew a make up artists. I suggested my friend Tommy Joiner who is with my agency and I work with often. He does really beautiful makeup and I knew Brian would like his work.

Some of you know that I also do makeup. But sometimes I prefer to do one or the other when I'm working on a editorial.

Sunday comes and we shoot 2 girls .Nell from Next and Tarassa from Trump. Brian wanted the girls to look fresh and undone and sexy. So Tommy did his thing and I did mine. We shot all day never knowing what might actually get published.

Shortly after the shoot Brian informed me that Both Italian GQ and German GQ where going to run the pictures. One magazine chose Nell and the other Tarassa. It wasn't long after the 1st good news, that Brian informed us that we also got the cover. I just saw the pictues of the German GQ and now you also get a preview. enjoy.
Italian GQ comming soon.

A little bit of Lipstick

8am on the any NYC subway is usually pretty packed. People are standing shoulder to shoulder fighting for a standing room only spot. Most are plunged into Ipods,lip syncing their favorite songs. Some are reading the free paper that is handed out as your make your way to the bottom of the entrance , and some are breathing through the stench coming from the homeless person who been riding the same train in the same spot for hours and hours.

One morning this week I was doing my daily subway people watching through my dark sun glasses. I noticed a older woman. She sat there staring into space clutching a purse tightly on her lap. Her hair was fine and over processed and was slightly frizzy ,due to the lack of product. Her face was weathered and pale and she looked like she was upset she didn't get her morning coffee.

I found myself staring at her , staring at nothing. I was feeling safe that my dark glasses where keeping me a under cover voyeur.At one point she seem to look right past my sun protection and look right into my eyes. I quickly pretended to be reading a safety warning that was hanging behind her head , asking riders not to try to ride the top of the train.

This lady soon began to frantically search the purse she clutched on her lap. Was she going to squirt me with pepper spray? Was she going to pull out a middle finger? You never know in NYC.

I noticed a scratched silver tube in her hand. She took off the cap to expose a very worn scarlet red lipstick. With one smooth circular motion she was able to perfectly cover her thin lips with out even using a mirror.

Her face no longer had that blank stare. It now had a look of confidence and determination. I was amazed at what a little bit lipstick did for this woman.
Her hand dug back in to her bag several times, each time revealing a new splash of color she applied to her canvas. She added concealer after every step of her paint by numbers routine. "eye liner, concealer,mascara,concealer, blush ,concealer." The last step was my favorite. From her bag of tricks came a eyeshadow duo complete with 2 sponge tip applicators. With two arched swipes her makeover was complete. She finished just in time for her final destination. She put the last of her beauty secrets back in her bag and used her fingers to fluff her fragile hair as she left the train.
I saw a complete transformation in a matter of minutes. Never again should you use the excuse "I don't have time to do my makeup in the morning." Because all it takes is "A Little Bit Of Lipstick"

2 Makeup Looks for Prom

I figured it was only fair to give you make up tips for prom as well. Here are 2 looks that might work well.

The first video is more of a classic look, but great for the girl who might not like to wear a lots of makeup.

The 2ND video is perfect for that girl who loves a smokey eye.

So pick one that best suits your personality .

Something for Prom

I thought I would post these videos seeing as its that time of the year again. Ive seen to many hard crunchy curls on young prom queen hopefuls over the years. I thought this would be a great alternative for that girl who really wants to stand out this year. Give one a try.

Bunnies and Birthday Cake

Every so often my birthday ends up being on Easter Sunday. I wanted to thank everyone for the very kind birthday wishes I got yesterday.

Its amazing how those milestone birthdays seem to take forever to come. 13,16,18,21. But they soon fly by quicker then anyone would want. I've already reached the lower car insurance age. I guess the next milestone for me in the A.A.R.P card and parking space closest to the mall.

I spent my birthday eating lots and lots of cake .1St My employees got me my favorite birthday cake on sat. Its called a Brown Derby. It is choc.cake with whipped cream ,strawberries and bananas between each layer. so good. 2nd On Sunday my brother Felipe and his wife Rhonda brought me a cake as well. 3rd And my boyfriend Rich also got me a cake. I had my birthday meal at P.F Chang's with my Mom, Rich ,and a friend Pedro. It was quite ,but nice and tasty. Oh and i got a free dessert there too. So 3 cakes and a free dessert,can you say CARDIO?

I thought I would share pictures that seem like they where taken just yesterday. The one with the hat was also on Easter Sunday a long time ago.

Thanks again.

Me Test ?

Sometimes I hear from fellow artists." I don't test anymore". I'm not sure why. Is it because they feel like they are at a point in their career where they don't need to? Is it because they feel like testing in for newbies? Maybe someone can leave a comment and tell me why some feel this way.

I love to test because it give me the opportunity to experiment with new things,it gives me a chance to build new relationships with new photographers, and it helps keep your portfolio fresh. When your busy with jobs that aren't editorial, your book can become dated very fast. This is why is so important to test.

My agent suggested that I do a test with this amazing photographer she knows. His name is Timothy Hogan. His work is quite amazing so i was excited to work with him. We both wanted and needed really strong beautiful hair shots that look like a hair product campaign. My model Bruna, had long beautiful long hair so I knew this was going to be easy. I first blew her hair out for first look. He wanted something smooth and shiny. Sounds simple doesn't it? I thought so . I took Bruna to the set and we layed her down. Timothy took a test shot and the hair just looked flat. So I started to think of ways to make the hair look more dimensional. I decided to actually put something under the hair to make it have that ripple effect.It was looking much better in the next test shot. Timothy then said something to me that almost put me in a sweat. He said " We cant have any cross over hairs" That was something i never even considered . It also told me that Timothy was a perfectionist and I knew these pictures where going to be amazing. It seemed like it took for ever but I lightly went over strand by strand to do the best job I could in getting rid of any "cross over hairs" The next look was something with more curl so I just curled it all with a iron brushed it all to one side and that was it. A whole day for 2 looks .

This test produced these 2 images , and these pictures have gotten me more attention and opened more doors then any other pictures in my book. And that's why I still test. You never just know .

Get The Look of Sasha Fierce

This is Nik Pace from Americas Next Top Model. We had a lot of fun this day as I turned her hair into a look that was inspired by Beyonce's altar ego " Sasha Fierce".After you master this look hopefully "All The Single Ladies" will no longer be single.

My day with Miss Universe.

Often times I hear " Your so Lucky" from fellow artists who are just starting out in this industry. I think some have the perception that once you reach a certain level in your career its smooth sailing. Let me tell you nothing could be further from the truth. You have to always challenge yourself and set new career goals. Another thing you have to remember is no matter how good you think you are, there is always going to be someone that doesn't agree with what you might consider beautiful. What is important to remember is a situation like that doesn't make you any less talented ,nor should you ever feel defeated. Use situations like this to grow and learn,but at the same time eat a slice humble pie and never let them see you sweat.

With that said , Ill share this story.

My Agent called me to tell me that She booked me on a shoot with Riyo Mori, Miss Universe 2007 with the amazing photographer Fadil Berisha for Stiletto Magazine. As you can imagine I was excited to get to work with both. So I show up to the studio ready to go. The first person I meet is the super friendly Isabelle, she is the makeup artists. She works with Fadil all the time and has a great relationship with him . The next person I meet is Fadil himself and he was super nice too. Then Riyo came in and she was so lovely and friendly. The next person is the stylist / art director of the magazine , she was from France and spoke NO English. Her assistant did all the talking for her.

We started to talk about the vision of the story and all shared our ideas. When we thought we where all on the same page Isabelle took Miss Universe into makeup. I watched and studied her hair and face so that I could do my thing when it was my time. As I start to do her hair and Riyo looks at me and said "wow your really good" This is always a good thing to hear from the model . Then Isabelle chirps is with a " You Better wurk" So at this time I'm feeling pretty pleased with myself. Then Fadil comes over and says." I want BIG hair,make it big" . Now rule of thumb is you always want to make the photographer happy . So big hair it is. As I put the finishing touches on the look . The french lady comes over with a look of Horror on her face and starts to whisper to her assistant. She never bothered to fill me in on what was whispered but I'm not thinking its anything I'm gonna want to hear. So we start to shoot and everything seems to be going well. I was happy with want I was seeing and assumes everyone else was too.

Fadil prints out a few swipes of some of the shots we did to get a idea of a layout and the French Lady comes over with a sharpie and starts to scribble all over the hair in the pictures , with a look on her face that said nothing but ''ewwwwwww''. She soon starts the whispers again and starts rubbing her hands from the top of her head down the sides of her face trying to spit out the word "Strait". What do you do when your being told two different things from two different people? Listen to the one who speaks English lol. I could have pulled a diva or panicked ,but I did neither . I tried to make them both happy. and I changed the hair often till everyone had a smile on their faces.

However I think the best picture is the one I posted. The one with the BIG hair.

April's Russian Tatler

Seems like April is a good month for me so far. Not only because its my birthday month.(yes 29 again)But also because I have 3 Editorials that came out this month.
The funny thing about this story is we Traveled from NYC to Turks & Cacaos to shoot it and it ended up running in Russian Tatler.lol .
We shot a couple of different stories for different publications down there at the same time. This story was actually a add on because we had a little free time on our hands , rather then do something insane like lay relax on one of the most beautiful beaches on earth we said "Oh what the heck. Lets work. " The photographers Tiffany Walling McGarity & John McGarity wanted to so something a little more fun and creative. So we talked about it a bit and decided to do a beauty accessory story. The look we agreed to do was something more sculptural and fun. Me thinking that it was going to be really close cropped beauty story ,I decided to paint her face gold and only parts of her body that I thought would show. Well things changed, because when we got onset they started shooting full length. ughhhh. That's the beauty of this business, you always have to be prepared. Lucky for me I had just barely enough product to paint her entire body. I used MAC Minerlized Skin Finish in Gold Deposit. I slicked her hair with gel into that Dairy Queen looking knot. Even thought this story was a after thought , it was my favorite thing we shot. The Model is Mayra Suarez from Elite. And styled by Zoe Shana Engelberg.

9 Questions with Johnny Lavoy

This was featured on The Powder Groups blog "For The Love Of Makeup"

How long have you been doing makeup and hair? OK I already see where this is going. I started in the business over 20 yrs ago . Yes, I was just 5 yrs old. lol!

How did you get started? It all started when I was about 10. I got a haircut that i could not restyle when i got home. So my mom took me back to the Barber and told him to teach me how to style my hair. I guess she got tired of me complaining every morning. I learned how to style my hair so well that, when the same thing happened to my sister It was me who had to wake up every morning and Do her hair. And that was the start of my career . I knew hair was my passion at that point. I found out that in order to get a license, you had to have your 9th grade education. So that's when I started to train.I won a bunch of competitions while i was in high school and took a job for a product company doing platform work at the age of 18. I was doing shows over the country. I became friends with the make up artist that worked with us. And that's where my interest in make up started.

How does the preparation process differ for you when you are doing hair or makeup? Well actually the prep is pretty much same for both. The first thing I do is research. I try to gather as much information about the job as possible. If its working with a celebrity for the first time I go right to wiremage.com and gettyimages.com to see them made up at different recent events. If its a editorial I try to get a idea of what the team is thinking in terms of a story and research appropriately.

What is the last trip you took for pleasure? Well I kinda cheated. This Summer I went to Italy to do Giuliana's wedding.[Depandi-Rancic's, host of E!News] So I went a week early to enjoy Rome. So it was a work/pleasure trip.

What is the last trip you took for work? I guess that would be The Makeup Show Miami. But I was also in Mexico and Turks and Caicos within a three week period. All good trips for a cold February!

What one makeup product can you not live without? This is hard . But I guess moisturizers because if the skin looks healthy you almost don't need anything else.

In one word, can tell me something about yourself that few people know? A.D.D

Is there one thing you do for every makeup application? Yes. Groom brows. If the brows are a mess it throws off my Mo Jo.

What are you doing tomorrow? I recently reconnected with a old classmate. I learned that she is now teaching hair at the school we graduated from. I also learned that 5 of the students qualified to compete this competition called Skills USA. It was the same competition that I won over 20 yrs ago that launched what would become my career. I asked to meet the students that are going to Skills USA and offered to help them - she was saying that they use me as an example of what you can accomplish with hard work and determination - and they love that i work with famous people - lol. So, tomorrow I am going to the school to coach the kids for their big competition before I have to go to the Salon. It feels so good to able to give back and help the artist of tomorrow try to get to another level. So wish them all luck....

Join Johnny Lavoy at The Makeup Show NYC May 17,18. Johnny will be presenting Event Makeup - a hands-on workshop open exclusively to attendees of the show. Additional fees apply for hands-on events. You can also see him at The Powder Group booth thorughout the day Monday May 18 www.themakeupshow.com
Posted by The Powder Group at 1:32 AM

My 9x9 Collection.

When OnMakeupMagazine asked me to do beauty story for the first Spring issue I was both flatterd and excited. One thing I have always noticed in this industry was a lack of women of color featured in beauty stories. It was my goal to find a model with really dark skin and show how you could use color on it. The model I used is named Samira she is from Brazil and repped by Ford Models as well. The photographer Eric Basilio and I wanted to show color but keep the skin clean ,healty , shiny. I was thrilled with the finished product.

The Powder Group asked me to design a color collection inspired by this beauty story . This limited edition collection consist of versatile, multiuse products including Pressed Color Powders for eyes, lips and face, Loose Shimmer Powders to use straight or mix with other mediums to create unique new shades and textures,are ideal for creating subtle sheen on the skin, or as a mixing medium for powder products. My collection is completed with two fabulous nail enamels to really complete the look. It is available for sale at http://www.thepowdergroup.com/. It will also be availale at The Makeup Show NYC , May 17th and 18th ,2009. http://www.themakeupshow.com/.

Femme Fatale in Florida International

This story just hit the news stands. Photographer Gian Andrea Di Stefano wanted to great a modern version of a Old Hollywood Starlet. My model Heidi had long, fine ,damaged hair, so I knew I had my work cut out for me. I decided to set it on hot rollers with a thermal spray and then brush it into a soft fingerwave. I cheated the the bob by rollinng the hair under. It was a beautiful rough texture that was perfect for the look we wanted to achieve. Hope you enjoy. Pick up a copy of April's Florida International to see the complete story.

Welcome to Johnny's World

Hey gang. I did it , I created a BLOG. Thanks for checking it out. It seems some of the most asked questions that I get everyday is "So whats going on? Whats new? What have you been doing?" I'm sure most of you hear the same. And usually the answers I give are " Oh nothing. Same ole thing . Or Just working." I think the main reason I give such vague answers is because I'm tired of repeating myself 50 times a day.
So I had a light bulb moment and thought a blog would be a fun and great way to let anyone who cares exactly what I'm up to. What I plan to do with this blog is fill you in on some of the things in my life , personal and professional, like tricks of the trade, How to Videos, Story behind the Story, Backstage at events, My Favorite things, My favorite people , and more. So please come back often to visit and tell a friend.
Peace
Johnny Lavoy

P.S. And for those of you that don't know who the heck I am. Here's a little video to let you know.