Hair and Make-Up Artist for Fashion

For this task, I have been asked to research in to progression options for after University. Working as a Hair and Make-Up Artist in the Fashion industry consists of a very demanding schedule, and requires artists to create high impact display work. These artists are responsible for creating dramatic looks for the runway as well as producing photographic work for social media, television, billboards, catalogs and magazines.

These looks range from natural glam to creative and bold looks, or elaborate prosthetics. Fashion Hair and Make-Up artists are responsible for designing looks that will help models stand out from a crowd, and look their best on the runway. Firstly, the MUA will work directly with a designer to create a look that is perfectly suited to their individual style, the show, and the fashion piece. Next, on show day they will complete this look, likely under strict time pressures, to help the model stand out from the crowd and grasp the attention of the audience.

Demanding schedules are usual in this field of the industry, a working day usually consists of strict time pressures  as sometimes a model may have to walk multiple times in a show, meaning quick and effective Make-Up changes will have to be made. This role may also require workers to travel to locations for photo shoots or runway shows, however they will be required for a much shorter time than those working in the film industry (usually 1-7 days maximum). Furthermore, it is extremely important for those working in the fashion industry to keep up with current and future trends, a social media presence is extremely necessary to allow for this.

Usually, the average yearly wage for a Hair and Make-Up artist in the Fashion industry stays fairly low until you establish a name for yourself. However, the typical daily wage for a full day of editorial work is averaged between £170 and £320. Additionally a junior MUA may earn as little as £45 for a full 20 hour shoot day. Furthermore, high profile events such as London Fashion Week will pay more, averaging at around £275-£450 a day. Although these daily rates may seem high, once you consider paying tax, travel and for product usage, the final sum does not account too much until you become noticed. You can work in the Fashion industry either freelance, or contracted, however it is more common for Fashion MUA’s to work freelance.

Additionally, a portfolio is an extremely important tool when applying for work in fashion, and those wanting to work in this industry must be willing to work for really cheap, or even free on occasion, in order to have access to extremely high quality images for their portfolio. This will ensure their work is showcased in extremely great quality.