New York City native Ashley Victoria found her calling amid the city’s fast-paced fashion scene. Initially carving her niche in hairstyling, it was backstage at a fashion week where the MUA’s fascination with makeup took hold. The transformative power of cosmetics, witnessed first-hand, led her to an intense program in London to refine her skills. It served as the launchpad for her career, which took her from retail makeup to the glamorous realms of Milan Fashion Week.
Today, Ashley stands as a sought-after makeup artist with over six years of professional experience spanning fashion, entertainment, and advertising. Her notable clients range from high-profile fashion houses such as Celestino and Slashed by Tia to well-known brands like Oribe, Glenmorangie, and Herbivore. Not to mention, her ability to create innovative looks, coupled with an unwavering attention to detail, has also drawn celebrities and top-tier models to her chair.
Ashley’s signature aesthetic is a captivating blend of soft glam juxtaposed with edgy accents and bursts of color. Inspired by diverse influences, from nature and art to old Hollywood films, she crafts looks that resonate with modern appeal while nodding to timeless beauty ideals. To date, the makeup artist has worked with familiar names like Denise Marie Bidot, Kyla Pratt, Jean Elie, and Elliot Sailor.
Now residing in Los Angeles, Ashley Victoria continues to expand her artistic horizons, adding to her growing list of achievements. In the following Q&A, she shares her journey, artistic inspirations, favorite beauty products, and invaluable makeup tips for beginners.
Having been in the beauty industry for quite a few years now, how did you first get into makeup?
Makeup has always been a passion of mine. Since I was young, I was always going through my mom’s makeup bag, playing like most people! After I graduated high school, I went to cosmetology school and studied hair. It wasnโt until I was backstage for fashion week doing hair that I realized I wanted to be at the other table that was doing makeup.
Once I realized that, I researched some schools and chose to do an intense program in London, and that was the best thing I ever did! After that, I worked at a makeup retail store and ended up getting fired. It worked out because a few days later, I was asked to assist at Milan Fashion Week! The rest after that is history.
How would you describe your aesthetic?
My aesthetic is definitely soft glam with an edge and pops of color. I like to do looks that feel and look like skin but still give you a pop.
Where do you get your inspiration for your looks?
I get my inspiration from art, nature, and of course, the greats like Kevyn Aucoin and Pat McGrath, as well as old Hollywood movies.
Whether it be skincare or makeup, what are your favorite beauty products?
There are so many things I love right now! To me, skincare will always be the number one recommendation because a good base to put makeup on makes all the difference. One of my faves right now is SoonJung 2x Barrier Intensive Cream. If your skin is irritated, red, or sensitive, that cream will change your life!
On the makeup side of things, Iโm really enjoying the new Lancรดme Teint Idole Ultra Wear All Over Concealer. Itโs versatile, buildable, and easy to use.
You obviously have a lot of experience working with different skin types and complexionsโdo you have a beauty tip that you would recommend?
My number one tip is to take care of your skin! That doesnโt mean you need to have a 12-step routine. Find what works for you! Make sure youโre removing all of your makeup. Youโd be surprised how much makeup can be left behind. Oil cleansing will change your life (even if you have oily skin).
Whatโs your favorite trend right now?
One of my favorite trends right now is โLatte Makeup,โ which just translates to a super bronzy, sun-kissed look with warm tones.
Given that fashion and beauty collide so often, what brands are you loving at the moment?
In beauty, Iโm really enjoying Rare Beauty and Danessa Myricks. In fashion, I really love Loewe and their approach to abstract clothing! Their brands are truly inspiring in their message and approach to fashion and beauty!
