The Makeup Show Chicago 2017 - Event Coverage

Last weekend I went on a press trip to cover The Makeup Show and media event in Chicago and learn about exciting new product launches from experts in the industry. What I love most about the show is that it isn’t just about buying discounted makeup and topping-up your kit (although it is a fabulous opportunity to do so) it’s also about making business connections directly with brand owners and furthering your career.

Attendees also had the opportunity to sign up for workshops/classes and seminars to help expand their brand, improve their skills and learn how to keep clients happy with a well-stocked kit. The show is open to professionals in the industry which provides an opportunity to meet a diverse community of artists. There was also a play area specifically designed for artists to gain hands-on experience with new products.

At the press event, celebrity Makeup Artist - James Vincent explained that this year’s show was about diversifying the business and celebrating artists and women of all ethnic groups, religions and backgrounds. He also showcased some of his favorite products of 2017.

In the press kit:

In the press kit this year, James included a variety of makeup and skincare from popular drugstore brands to high-end and products used behind the scenes at some of the hottest runway shows.

The Mehron Celebré Pro-HD Correct It Palette ($21.95) is great for neutralizing various skin discolorations and the formula is infused with Vitamin E, Aloe Vera and antioxidant-rich pomegranate for smooth blending, great coverage and hydration.  

-Deep orange: (for dark skin tones) conceals under eye circles and hyperpigmentation.

-Tangerine & pink: brightens olive complexions and diminishes signs of fatigue.

-Green: neutralizes redness, acne marks, scars and windburn.

-Yellow: hides purple or blue discoloration, bruises, veins and under eye circles.

-Purple: eliminates yellow undertones.

NYX was a new vendor at the show so James included the bestselling Strobe of Genius Illuminating Palette ($19.00) with a variety of silky shades to compliment all skin tones.

Note Cosmetics is one of the few brands I hadn’t tried prior to the show but the Terracotta Blusher ($17.95) is one of their most popular items. This shade is called Vintage Pink, although it emits a beautiful golden tint. The sheer, bronzy hues provide a natural glow with seamless, buildable coverage and the soft, weightless texture blends effortlessly.

We all know that Bdellium has great brushes and their booth at this year’s show was huge! They also make a variety of matte lipsticks - the deep purple below is called Dark Carnival ($16.00). Crown (also popular for their makeup tools) has a line of creamy, matte lipsticks that glide on smooth, vibrant and full-coverage. They retail for $13.99 each and this gorgeous shade is called Crown Me.

In terms of skincare, there was a wide range included in this year’s press kit.

-The Body Shop Tea Tree Oil ($13.00): nourishes blemished skin, treats acne, blackheads and irritation.

-First Sanitzer ($16.00): removes bacteria and cleans makeup brushes, lipstick and cream formulas with an all-natural, organic formula.

-Mustaev Mood Therapy Mask – Moisture Lifting ($4.00): replenishes and refreshes dry, tired skin.

-Mario Badescu Drying Lotion ($17.00): Award-winning formula that dries-up whiteheads and pimples overnight.

-Embryloisse Lait-Crème: “24-hour miracle cream” used by Makeup Artists, models and celebrities to restore the skin’s natural glow and deeply moisturize.

-Twinmedix Vitamin Skin Sprays (samples): to balance, hydrate and protect before makeup application.

-Bioderma Makeup Removing Micelle Water ($24.90)

We also got Michael Devellis’ new book called Ten Words - focusing on building a stronger career, meaningful connections and a focused life. The book is available on his website - thepowdergroup.com for $12.00.

Last but not least is the Kevyn Aucoin Molten Lip Color Top Coat ($39.00) which can be used alone for a radiant, metallic glow or on top of your favorite lip colors to create an ombré effect.

There were over 70 top pro-focused brands including: Make Up For Ever, Temptu, MAC, Danessa Myricks Beauty, Smashbox, Senna, Graftobian and more offering fabulous deals, discounts and bundles so artists have all the tools needed to succeed.

For more information on The Makeup Show or to buy tickets for the next show visit the website at themakeupshow.com.