About The Artist

For Senior Artist Michelle Lee-Collins,

creativity is a way of life. Living with her husband and children in Cape Town  – “one of the most beautiful cities in the world” – her philosophy is simple: “Live hard and embrace every moment.” She began working parttime at her local M·A·C counter before swiftly rising through the ranks. These days she is more at home working on the international fashion circuit, but never forgets her roots. “My cousins treated me like their doll when I was a child, even transforming me into Yoko Ono on more than one occasion. I loved the attention and the transformative aspect and it hasn’t left me since.” Here she tells us more about her fascinating journey so far.

Starting young

“I actually have very early memories of M·A·C. I remember searching through my sister’s makeup bag and running off with her Studio Fix Powder. It became a staple in my teens. As I’ve grown older I’ve fallen in love with so many products from the range. I’m addicted to my Studio Conceal and Correct Palette/Medium because of the nuances it gives to my skin. Zoom Waterfast Lash is my second desert island must-have. I need a mascara that will withstand all the elements! Lastly, I love colour so Candy Yum-Yum Lipstick will always be in my purse.”

Homegrown Talent

“Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Africa is always a crazy four days. In South Africa I am the key makeup artist for all shows. To paint the picture: 28 designers from across the world with roots in Africa come together to show fashion collections. I transform one makeup look into the next within minutes. Backstage is highly stressful yet incredibly intoxicating! In two and a half years I have keyed over 160 shows!”

Dusk ‘til Dawn

“Taking a look from day to night is simple with a slick of liquid or gel liner on the top lid. I am loving Superslick Liquid Eye Liner On the Hunt, for a patent leather texture. Then of course, Ruby Woo Lipstick works on everyone and can glam up your look in seconds. As I say: “Power to the Woo." Finally, because I’m a self-confessed lash junky, I would recommend using Haute & Naughty Lash. I just came back from Nigeria and the looks in the club there were really inspiring.”