Local Lovin': Sara Hill Make-up

New around here? Just in case, my Local Lovin’ series is a spotlight on designers / stores / creators of marvellous things (and anything else that catches my eye) – all based in Scotland. I believe that we should be supporting the amazing home-grown talent that we have so I decided to start Local Lovin’ as a regular feature. If you have an awesome project or create something that you think I might love please let me know! See my Contact page for details of how to get in touch…

If, like, me you’re a little bit of a make-up junkie, I am sure that by now you will be familiar with the name Sara Hill. Born in Scotland, but now known internationally for her creative work in the fashion, media and make-up industries, Sara Hill has over 17 years experience under her belt and has founded both the Academy of Make-up and HOPE ST magazine. I remember picking up the first issue of HOPE ST and being blown away by the art direction of the editorials, as well as the stunning hair and make-up.

I never would have imagined that a couple of years later, I’d be chatting away to Sara (never mind having my make-up applied by her!) and getting the lowdown on her exciting collection of own-brand cosmetics. Sara Hill Make-up initially caught my eye after I spotted a few playful campaigns like Free The Freckle, and OF COURSE Glitter for Grown-ups, and having used the products myself I can honestly say that it ain’t all talk - I am officially a convert (her Gigi lipstick is my current go-to shade!).

Today, I’d love to share a little interview with the lovely Sara Hill, so you guys can also get to know the lady behind this awesome work…

Tell me about how Sara Hill Make-Up came to be, and how you decided to enter into the crazy, beautiful world of cosmetics!

I’ve been a make-up artist for almost 19 years, I suppose if you ask any make-up artist they would say having your own brand would be the ultimate dream. Make-up artists are the most passionate product lovers out there, we are also super fussy and tend not to go for the hype! We prefer to find hidden gems and create our own mixtures of products we personally love.

These creations become part of our signature make-up style. After time we realise that the mixtures we make ourselves by blending different products together are what’s missing in the market. Which is what happened to me: foundation was my holy grail, and I could never find the exact formula, so mixed many blends, added glosses, primers and moisturisers into the mix to try and get the right texture for my editorial work. Eventually I decided to seek out manufacturers to make this dream a reality.

Go girl! What sorts of things inspire your work?

Everything, from music, film and art. I’m a big pop culture lover so this really drives my concepts too.

Let’s talk girl crushes. Are there any other make-up artists that you particularly admire? Who in your opinion, is killing it right now?

Alex Box is always a massive inspiration to me, I was fortunate to assist her at fashion weeks early in my career. She was so down-to-earth and lovely. Isamaya Ffrench is another artist that’s rocking the world right now, I love her total freedom to create, she pushes the boundaries of make-up and every time I see her work I think, Damn - why didn’t I think of that?! She’s a genius. And of course queen bee - the amazing Pat McGrath I couldn’t not mention her. She is the ultimate make-up icon for me.

How would you describe your own personal style?

Ha! Goodness, I tend to want to stay in the background with my style! Normally I’m the last person I think about, I’m to busy making others look amazing. I wear a lot of Cos and Acne - I like clean, simple oversized clothes.

Tell me the one item in your kit that you couldn’t possibly live without!

My primer is amazing - it makes the skin look dewy, fresh and smooth! I love it on a bare skin with no make-up for fashion work, it’s the best.

I can vouch for that! What are some of your current favourite looks to create? Any particular trends you’re lovin’ right now?

I am LOVING colour right now. And combining contrasting tones on the eye. I call it ‘rainbow bright’ eyes! You’ll see a lot of colourful looks from me this year…

Ooh, I like the sound of that! If you could collaborate with ANYONE, who would it be and why?

Juergen Teller because his work is amazing!! I’d love to shoot Vivienne Westwood’s next campaign and I’d love to create the looks for Moschino’s next runway … my list is miles long.

What has been your proudest moment so far?

I’m proud of everything I’ve achieved, but I also have drive to keep doing things better and better. I want to create unique products that will inspire a new generation of artists to create. I want to change the way the world views make-up, as I see it as an art form and mode of self expression open to all. Not a uniform and not solely for woman.

So… can you spill any details of what we can expect from Sara Hill Make-Up over the coming months?

I have so many new colours and products coming out this year! The range will just keep expanding and evolving. I’m excited to create new visual ways to inspire through film and images.

Innovation is at the core of my brand, the products have to perform at the highest expert level. I’m lucky to have many make-up artist friends who work at the top levels of fashion and film industry today. They are my sounding board, we discuss in great lengths what works and what needs to change, nothing goes out there unless it’s totally perfect. My brand was created for the most fussy make-up artists I know, if it passes their approval as well as my own I’m happy!

I’m excited to see what 2016 holds for Sara Hill Make-up - and I hope you’ve enjoyed learning a little more about Sara and her work. Be sure to check out her site to find more inspiration and to shop the entire collection!

With love, glitter and killer eyeliner,