Haute Swank! - Interview with Olori "SWANK"

I've always thought that most Nigerians embodied a unique flair for fashion and clearly there's a pattern here... with the growing number of talented Nigerian fashion stylists and designers. Don't take my word for it, get to know Olori "SWANK"



BEAUTYSCHOOLED! How long have you been in the industry?

Olori SWANK: I have been in the industry only 1 year and 7 months. (…but I took a hiatus for 6 months in between that time.)


BEAUTYSCHOLLED! Wow, you’ve done quite a bit in that short period of time. When did you know you wanted to become a Stylist?


Olori SWANK: I actually started off with aspirations to model. I did a couple small jobs here and there; a national advertising campaign and some music videos (don't ask me which ones...LOL). Every time I would do a test shoot for my portfolio, the photographers would ask me to refer them to my stylist. When they would learn I styled myself they would always tell me to consider styling as a career. I was still in college (studying Psychology/Pre-Med) and I really knew nothing about the field of styling, so I never truly took them seriously. Then one day Mickey “MeMpHiTz” Wright, Jr. (V.P of A&R for Jive Records) told me he loved my personal style and wanted me to develop an image for a new artist he signed to Jive, Asia Cruise. It was all uphill from there. I kind of learned the business as I went along. So I guess, I never aspired to be a stylist. I was born a stylist and it just took a little while for me to realize it.


BEAUTYSCHOOLED! Other than your college degree, did you receive any formal education prior to launching your career?

Olori SWANK: Everything I know about being a fashion stylist (from the creative end to the business end) is self-taught through observation, research, and trial-and-error. I kind of like to think of it as an independent study course at your choice University.




BEAUTYSCHOOLED! Would you say that you have a niche, or is there anything particular that your clients or industry peers would say you're known for?

Olori SWANK: They know me as the edgy rebellious chick with the blue hair. I hate all things ‘appropriate’ and ‘predictable.’ For example, I don’t do ‘matching’ and I stray away for symmetry (ex. I may do 20 bangles on one arm and just a ring on the other hand). I also like to mix patterns, textures & feelings (ex. Shorts and a Sweater, Polka Dots & Plaid, Leather & Lace).


BEAUTYSCHOOLED! What’s a typical working day like for you, if there is such thing as typical for you?

Olori SWANK: No two days in my entire career have ever been the same!!! It’s exciting but stressful at the same time. But that’s what makes it so great. I’ve pretty much broken it down into 4 major categories: prep days, shopping days, office days and travel days. Prep days involve production meetings with the director/photographer/producer/talent/etc, creative meetings, & garment edits. Shopping days entail pulling garments and shopping for the shoot or production. Office days consist of the business side of things. Planning for new shoots and new events, expense reports, etc. And travel days are pretty much what they are - - travel days. And most of y’all read my tweets from 30,000 feet in the air. J


BEAUTYSCHOOLED! Can you share with our readers what a day is like on the set of a photo shoot?

Olori SWANK: uhhm. …upon arrival, the first thing I like to do is have a small chat with the photographer & the talent. Then my assistants and I unload the garments & set up our workspace. For me, it’s very important for things to be organized; so we set up the pieces (including shoes, accessories, etc) in a particular order. Then, I dress the talent in the first look. As the photog is shooting, I make small adjustments based on the angles. I am always looking in the camera (or monitor) to see how the look photographs. Even though it looks one way in the flesh, it might look totally different on film.



BEAUTYSCHOOLED! What would you say are the biggest misconceptions about the industry and stylists specifically?

Olori Swank: I'd say the biggest misconception about being a stylist is that it's an easy job & you just put a bunch of clothes together. It's actually more complex than that. Being a stylist requires a whole lot of research. You must not only be "in the know" on current trends, but you must follow the designers to predict what trends are upcoming. You attend shows to preview upcoming collections and you study magazines as if they are your school books. You must also build solid relationships with these designers and brands to elevate your status as a stylist. The more designers you can pull from, the better you are as a stylist. Also, being a stylist can be quite stressful. Trust me!



BEAUTYSCHOOLED! It seems that every up and coming stylist wants to work with celebrities. What advice do you have for someone new who is trying to break into the industry and wanting to work with celebrities?

Olori SWANK: My greatest piece of advice would be to find someone doing it already & work under them as an assistant (or intern). …& network, network, network!

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! So what’s next for you? Any projects in the works that you can
share with the readers?

Olori SWANK: Hmmm. What’s next for Miss SWANK? …Well, I have a reality show launching in 2010. It’s called “The Adventures of Princess SWANK.” It’s going to give viewers an insight into the life of Princess Ivory (DTP Records Executive) and myself. I like to think of it as a visual diary of what it is like to work behind the scenes in the entertainment industry. I also have my lip gloss line that will be making its debut in 2010. I’ve decided to keep the name top secret for now. Furthermore, I have several fashion events that I will be launching beginning the first week in January. In addition to the aforementioned things, I plan on styling, styling, styling, staying ahead of the curve and growing my “SWANKdom.” Stay tuned…..

Olori, thanks for that insightful interview. For more information on Olori be sure to check out her website and her twitter.

Ciao for now... Class is dismissed!

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Nailpro and Minx Nails at ISSE 2010

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Prayers and Help for Haiti

I will not abandon you as orphans - I will come to you. John 14:18

BeautySchooled!'s prayers and deepest sympathies go out to the people of Haiti and their loved ones affected by this horrific tragedy.

If you can give please give... but one thing that we ALL can do is pray.

YELE Haiti fund: click here...
Red Cross fund: click here

*Please be certain to do your research when choosing which funds to donate to, unfortunately there are predators out there that use times of out pouring and giving such as this for their own personal gain.

Ciao for now...

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It's a Men's Thing - Celebrity Hair and Makeup Artist Cataanda J. Interview

Welcome to the first Image Maker post of 2010! I've had the pleasure to speak to our next Image Maker often enough that she seems more like an old friend than talent I interviewed for the blog. When I tell you this young lady is on it, she's on it! Expect MAJOR things from her in 2010. Get to know Cataanda J.


BEAUTY SCHOOLED! How long have you been in the industry?


Cataanda J: Wow, well I’ve been in the industry for over 30 years! (giggles) You ask how that’s possible and I’m not even 35 yet? Ok so, I’ve been doing this since I was old enough to hold a comb and brush…I was probably 3! Hey, experience is experience!!! I actually attended beauty school my 10th grade year in high-school as part of a vocational program where I went to regular school for half a day, and then was bussed from the school campus and taken to Kalamazoo Beauty Academy for the other half a day. Sooooo, there you go. You can conclude that I am well seasoned! (smile)


BEAUTY SCHOOLED! When did you know you wanted to be a makeup artist?

Cataanda J: My mom was a cosmetologist and when I was like 7 or 8 she would take me to school with her and that’s where my talent began to flourish! I never really wanted to “be” a makeup artist, I just “was” naturally… I always said I wanted to be a supermodel! (laughing) But not only did I love everything about hair; makeup; and getting all dressed up; I had an unbelievable talent for doing it all! For years makeup and the artistry was just something I loved doing and did very well. At the start of my career, I focused more on hair and just collaborated the makeup aspect with the hair whenever asked! It wasn’t until I moved from Michigan to the DC area in 2002 that I decided to actually pursuit makeup as a side gig to keep me until I built my clientele in the hair salon. I thought, if I’m going to do it, I’m going to do it BIG! So I decided to apply at the M.A.C. counter in Nordstrom, got hired, and the rest is history! (smile)




BEAUTY SCHOOLED! How did you decide to specialize in Men's Grooming?

Cataanda J: I didn’t sit down one day and say…..”Hey, I’m going to specialize in Men’s Grooming”! (laughing) It’s something that I kind of just fell into. Working for M.A.C. you obviously work with all races, ages, and sexes, so……(laughing) That’s another story! When I decided to quit M.A.C. to strictly freelance and start my own business I got more gigs on set, photo shoots, music videos, runway shows, etc. I realized then that there is a huge market for men in this industry and most people don’t think about men and their beauty, oops I mean, “grooming” needs! (laughing)


It wasn’t until the whole “metro sexual” craze came about, thanks to Diddy, well he was Puffy at that time that men felt comfortable receiving and now actually talking about their experiences with such services like the mani/pedi, facials, eyebrow waxing, etc.! (giggles) The biggest eye opener for me and when I realized the high demand for men’s grooming was when working as a consultant on different events for L’Oreal Paris. Most of the men attending the events are almost dragged in, literally, by their wife or girlfriend, but being that L’Oreal has a men’s skincare line, Men’s Expert, these men discover that they do have some curiosity and issues to address. So that is when I am flooded by their questions because in that environment, they are totally comfortable talking about it because they know that is what we are there for!




BEAUTY SCHOOLED! Did your specialization require any special or specific training?

Cataanda J: I’d say yes and no! The first place I worked was a Barber Shop! I was actually a stylist there but being the only female working in a barber shop it gets quite interesting! (laughing) I’d watch the owner and study his technique. It wasn’t long before some of his clients started to challenge me to cutting their hair because I’d always say “oh, I can do that”! So one day I accepted the challenge and the results were fantastic!

I already had experience using the clippers and trimmers seeing as how short cuts with a shaved nape/neckline was in back then. Plus my mom use to have me fade up the hair in the back and cut all kinds of designs in… (laughing) Then we would color the lines in with eyeshadow ….It was hot! (giggles) My other training came from when I worked at Supercuts! OMG, I got so much experience cutting there its crazy! The name says it all, Supercuts, and its just that! I gained various clipper cut techniques, mastered eyebrow and beard trims. (ear hair trim as well, eeew) I also got over my fear of using the straight razor.




BEAUTY SCHOOLED! How different is it working with men than women?

Cataanda J: Well working with men is usually much more of an adventure! (smile) They usually flirt with you and some even try to hit on you! That can sometimes be a bit uncomfortable. Besides having to fight them off, working with men is a lot less work! (giggles) Unless the dude is rocking a lot of hair where intricate styling is necessary or if he has extremely bad skin, a days work with the guys is simple and sweet!


BEAUTY SCHOOLED! What would you say are the biggest misconceptions about the industry and makeup artists specifically?


Cataanda J: What I would say are the biggest misconceptions about 1)The Industry- is that it’s “glamorous”! This is a deep, dark industry and if you’re not careful, it will totally consume you! It’s so easy to get caught up in….. LOL That’s a whole other topic! (SMH) 2)Makeup Artists- is that when you tell most people (especially that aren’t in the industry) they think it’s not a “real” job! For example, if you say “OMGosh, I’m so tired from working all day”…it never fails! Some disrespectful jerk will say, “oh whatever, all you do is “play” in makeup all day, how can you be tired?”….and I’m like dude, “you think you know, but you have NO idea!!! How about following me around so you can truly learn what a day in a life of a makeup artist is really like and trust me, you will have much more respect for what I do”!!!!




BEAUTY SCHOOLED! What advice do you have for someone new who is trying to break into the industry and wanting to work with celebrities?

Cataanda J: For new makeup artists and hairstylists who are trying to break in the industry, I say learn all you can when you can! This is an ever changing industry and we’re all creative beings so not only does your work speak for you but your personality speaks volume meaning, you have to remain humble! Never get to the point where you think you know it all and you’ve gotten so BIG that you forget from whence you came!!! On the flip side of that, this industry is very competitive and critical.

Know that you can do whatever you want and there is no limit to where you can go….You will get so many “NO’s” before you get a “yes” and it can sometimes be very disappointing! When you’ve reached the status as “Celebrity Makeup Artist” and/or “Celebrity Hairstylist”, please remember that is JUST a title! What you do is not who you are! I spoke about it earlier….it’s easy to get caught up! Never get to the point where you idolize anyone! Celebrities are celebrated people! That does not mean they are better than you so never lose who you are to fit in with someone or be swayed by the crowd! Be yourself, walk with dignity and do what you do!!!……You will be highly respected and much more appreciated!!!

Thank you Cataanda, for that wonderfully inspiring interview! For more information on Cataanda be sure to check out her website.

And... Cataanda's interview has you considering a career in Men's Grooming be sure to check out my older post on Diana Schmidtke and her book Shortcuts.

Ciao for now... Class is dismissed!

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Is this year THE year for you?

Happy New Year! I'd like to take this time to thank each and everyone of you who've followed this blog and recommended it to your friends.

The new year generally kicks off with most people setting goals and making resolutions. There's something about a new year that screams new beginnings. A lot of us probably wanted to start over back in October or even as early as May last year. Maybe you didn't know where or how to start or begin again...

Each year I pull out my favorite excerpts and inspirational quotes... and thumb through them but I have two that I visit more frequently than all the rest in fact they're both on my board where I can see them... one I've posted before {Right Livelihood}

This one I've never posted before but reading it today I wanted to share it with you... I have a feeling someone needs to read this today...

Thanks again for reading and lets make 2010 THE year! xoxo

Rashida B.


"So often we let life bump us off course. We set out on a path, and almost instantly our emotions distract us, or something happens and we drift off course. If you want things out of life, you will have to go for what you want regardless of your current situation. If you concentrate on your goal and do not get distracted, you place an additional force at your disposal. For the power of will allows you to be moved into the right place at the right time. If you do not know what you want in life, you express that uncertainty into the universal law. And it --- being impartial --- expresses back to you the same feeling. The result is that nothing flows, and all your attempts to materialize your dreams fade or break up.

If you do not know what you truly want then the best move is to begin to clear out all those things that you defintiely no longer want --- debilitating relationships, unhelpful habits, lack of action, and become clear, and then you can head toward it. The path of power calls for certain aggression, as does nature. The animal in the forest goes for what it wants and in doing so it expends energy in getting its needs met. You should adopt the same style. Lock on to what you want, go for it no matter how long it takes, and you will have added concentration to your battery of techniques for self-improvement."

Stuart Wilde

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Minx Squared - Janice Jordan and Dawn Lynch-Goodwin Minx Nails Founders

Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the past year you’ve undoubtedly heard of Minx… the latest Haute Manicure that “extends fashion to your fingertips” …literally. I’d heard quiet whispers about Minx here and there back in mid 2008 and decided to do a little research, and though at the time I wasn't quite yet convinced of the power of Minx I did see a re-emergence of an old trend and intuitively I knew this time it would be much bigger and far more glamorous than the nail trends of the 80’s. So much so that after six years in the beauty industry I decided to high-tail it back to school… Nail School.

Shortly after I ordered my Minx training kit and performed by first Minx Manicure… I was completely BLOWN away! There really is absolutely NOTHING like it!

My first set of practice Minx

I had to find out more about this incredible company and its founders. With the help of Lucien who mans (literally, yes Lucien is a guy) MINXDOTCOM on Twitter and Janice Miller who handles Minx’s pr I was able to get the inside scoop from Minx founders Janice Jordan and Dawn Lynch-Goodwin to find out how they're coping with the whole Minx craze and what exciting new things Nail Professional can look forward to from Minx in 2010.

Minx founders: Dawn Lynch-Goodwin and Janice Jordan

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! Did you even imagine that Minx would be this BIG? (lol)

Janice Jordan: Absolutely! When toying with the idea of developing Minx, I asked permission from my family because I knew launching a product like Minx would require years of sacrifice. My daughter Jahna told me if Minx did not work there was something terribly wrong with the universe and to go for it!

Dawn and I spent over two years doing product development, and setting up the Minx Factory before we went to market. We have a lot of “hard-time” stories, but we are also amazed at how the universe seems to help when pursuing a dream. Not once did we ever feel Minx would not succeed.

Minx is such a fun and fashionable product it is hard not to fall in love with the attention you get when wearing it, and if we felt that way, we knew millions of other women would, too!

Photo Courtesy of Naja

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! How did you come up with the idea for Minx?

Dawn Lynch-Goodwin: The inspiration of the product stemmed from Janice’s frustration with wearing down her nails. Janice was seeking a coating to better protect her nails. Once she found a solid coating, she realized that it could be developed in a variety of metallics and designs. And, besides looking amazing, it had other benefits such as no drying time, no chipping and not requiring any chemicals in the application or removal.

Minx: The inspiration of the brand came from Dawn, an expert in fashion and beauty. Dawn owned a salon in Australia when she received a call in the fall of 2006 from her friend of 20 years asking her help. Dawn flew to the USA thinking she was going to visit Janice and just give some advice, but she ended up spending two weeks conducting focus groups and experimenting with prototypes. Dawn realized they were on to something when they were walking by a trendy salon on Melrose in LA and the owner ran out to find out what she was wearing on her nails. She then realized she was totally hooked when she found herself buying a silver purse, which she wouldn’t normally do, to match her silver nails. Dawn immediately saw the way forward for Minx and how to take it to market. Being very excited Dawn returned to Australia after becoming Janice’s business partner, sold her salon and got on with starting Minx.

Dawn and Janice spent the next two years as typical entrepreneurs scraping for funding, working on R&D and setting up manufacturing.

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! What about the name, it’s very catchy why Minx?

Minx: A “Minx” is a woman who is a sly or playful young woman, and we feel the word expresses an attitude that crosses all demographics. Minx is basically for a person who loves life and wants to stand out from the crowd.

Photo Courtesy of VitalJuice.com

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! Why do you think Minx has fast become such a phenomenon?

Minx: Many people have told us that they were thrilled to discover Minx because there hasn’t been anything really new and exciting in nails for a long time. We have positioned Minx as high-end fashion accessory, and our tagline is “Minx extends fashion to your fingertips.” We believe that Minx will become a fashion necessity. Our vision is that the fashion-conscious will not feel their outfit is complete without their Minx.

We are also hoping to escalate the importance of the manicurist, similar to what happened in the hair industry nearly 20 years ago. Two decades ago, a hair cut was “just” a hair cut until Vidal Sassoon came along and changed history. Now a celebrity rarely goes anywhere without their hair stylist. We want to help develop “nail stylists” and see that they also have their place as an integral part of the fashion and beauty team.


BEAUTYSCHOOLED! The first question most people who’ve never heard of Minx ask is…. “What is it?” How do you describe Minx to someone who’d never heard or seen it before?

Minx: Minx is a flexible film that is applied to the nail using heat and pressure, just like a shrink wrap. However, because it’s a film and not a polish, it is available in a wide variety of metallic, designs and graphics that have never before been available to the nail industry.

Photo Courtesy of Sweet Squared

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! I have quite a few friends who are in the nail business that are reluctant to get into Minx for fear that the market will become over saturated and they may find themselves competing on price thus not making the service profitable enough for them to offer, what are your thoughts on that?

Minx: Minx is still a very new product – it was introduced less than two years ago – so there is much more demand than supply right now, and it will be quite a while before there are nail technicians skilled in Minx applications in all of the major cities in the U.S. With so much interest and publicity focused on Minx, the demand is growing exponentially, so the opportunity for manicurists is also growing. And, the initial investment of a Minx starter kit is quite small – you don’t need to purchase hundreds of templates in order to get started. You can order just a few templates at a time if you want.

Also, just as regular manicures can range in price from $9.00 to $60.00 depending on the salon, there will be opportunities for talented Minx manicurists to draw in the type of client they desire. There is plenty of opportunity for a skilled manicurist to introduce a luxury Minx manicure that includes an actual dry manicure, the Minx application, aromatherapy, reflexology, or other components that set them apart from their competition.

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! Some techs are boasting that Minx to last up to two weeks, and many people are disappointed when they don’t and take to their twitters and blogs to complain, as a nail professional I realize that in some cases it is the nail professional’s applications but in some instances it could also be client’s care for example I’ve found that other nail techs who use acetone regularly or hairstylists who shampoo or use oily products aren’t a good candidate for Minx Manicures so I suggest Minx Pedicures for them. What are you doing as a company to protect the brand in this case? Are Minx techs prepared to educate their clients about Minx and aftercare once the service is complete?

Minx: We have suggested that Minx should last 4 to 8 days on the fingers, and up to 4 weeks on the toes. However, like nail polish or any other nail finish, there is no way to guarantee longevity as you cannot control what each person does with their hands. As a high-end fashion accessory, the appeal of Minx is that it looks spectacular, and is a must-have for a special occasion. We have never stated that Minx lasts longer than polish, because that’s not a selling point. The selling point is that it looks completely unique and unlike any other nail polish or product currently available, and brings fashion to your fingertips.

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! How does a Nail professional who is interested in becoming trained to perform Minx services become certified?

Minx: If you purchase a Minx Starter Kit through the www.MinxNails.com Web site, you will receive a free training video that will show you how to apply Minx. There is also a “Minx Q&A” tab on the Minx Web site that provides application and removal tips, and a customer service line that nail technicians can call if they have any questions.

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! All of my nail professional readers want to know what’s next for Minx in 2010 and beyond.

Minx: We are very excited to be finally introducing a formal training program across the U.S. in 2010. We know it’s been a long time coming, but frankly, when we launched Minx in January 2008, we didn’t expect it to grow so quickly!

Also, we will soon be introducing our first complete new line of Minx, called “Teasers.” This line was inspire by the colors and energy at the Alexander McQueen fashion show in Paris this fall, where we Minxed all the models for his Spring/Summer 2010 collection.

Backstage McQueen photos copyrights of Phillipe Ardoudin

Thank you Janice and Dawn for such a great interview, we wish your company much success in the coming new year. For more information on Minx and how to become a certified Minx specialist visit their website. If you're already a Minx'r please leave a comment and let us know how Minx has transformed your nail business.

Also be certain to check out the following interviews from two of my favorite Minx'rs, Athena and Tracylee

Ciao for now... Class is dismissed!

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Manicurist Extraordinaire and Minx'r Tracylee

I’ve been in love with beauty and the industry for as long as I can remember but as of lately I’m completely enamored with it. This blog along with Twitter had put me in contact with professional that few would dispute are amongst the industries best, brightest and most dedicated and Tracylee is no exception, dolling out invaluable tips and encouragement Take some time to get to know Tracelee…





BEAUTYSCHOOLED! How long have you been in the industry?

Tracylee: 20 years.

BEAUTYSCHOOLED: When did you know you wanted to become a manicurist?

Tracylee: I started doing my own nails with tip & wraps & fun designs when I was 18 years old, I didn't realize I wanted to do this for a living until around 21 years old, when a neighbor of mine decided she was going to school for nails. My mother came in and told me, and thought that would be something I would be interested in. I thought about it for only a day! I enrolled the next day!

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! Would you say that you have a niche, or is there anything particular that your clients or industry peers would say you're known for

Tracylee: I think I am known for a couple things, My Manicures last longer than most without chipping, I am very thorough, I am a perfectionist, and a clean freak. I also guarantee my work, which isn't too common in the business. I think my niche/specialties are Minx Nails and meticulous manicures. I also try to introduce men to the world of manicures and pedicures once they try it, they become very loyal clients!

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! Minx is all the new rage but Celebs have been getting Minx'd for some time now. How long have you been Minxin’ and what drew you to this cutting edge trend?

Tracylee: I started the beginning of this year, I feel like I've always been minxin', lol. After 20 years doing nails, I still read my trade and fashion magazines from cover to cover, reading every little ad, looking for the next great thing. I saw a small add in my nail magazine for minx, asked for a sample from the company and applied it to my boss. Within 2 hrs after leaving the salon, she was texting me, telling me I had to do Minx in the salon, as she was being bombarded with people wanting to know what it was and where to get it. I called my order in the next day!



BEAUTYSCHOOLED! What’s a typical working day like for you?

Tracylee: My days are never typical and change frequently! When I’m not working with Private Clients or Photo Shoots, I split my time between the celebrity salons of Suite 303 & Damone Roberts NY. Sometimes I work in 3 places in one day!

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! What would you say are the biggest misconceptions about the industry and manicurists specifically?



Tracylee: I think that a lot of people group all manicurists as the same. That is, until they come to me! lol...What I mean by that is, for some reason educating the consumer is not favorably looked upon in this industry. I educate every client that sits in my chair on my procedure, why things happen or don't happen, and nail anatomy, how to maintain their services, and the importance of seeking a well educated and experienced Tech. Most people who have never experienced a proper manicure, pedicure, nail enhancement service, etc., they don't know any different. I love talking about nails to anyone who will listen!!! ha!

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! It seems that every up and coming beauty pro wants to work with celebrities. What advice do you have for someone new who is trying to break into the industry and wanting to work with celebrities?

Tracylee: First and foremost, you must be meticulous & diligent with your craft! It's a long, hard road to get into the freelance arena & working with Celebs. Anyone looking to do so needs the following: networking (this is mandatory), focus and hard work, also you be clean in your person and your kit, and be meticulous with your services, BE ON TIME, go above and beyond the job at hand. Most important...Professionalism!

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! Do you provide any mentoring or training for new manicurists?
Tracylee: I am planning to offer training for new and experienced Techs in 2010, in all phases of nail care. I am frequently helping other techs, so mentoring is gratifying to me. I not doing any mentorships at the time, but will gladly help anyone with some questions they may have. :*)

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! So what’s next for you? Any projects in the works that you can share with the readers?

Tracylee: I have so many projects coming up..Uggh, I overflow my plate!!. I really want to be an Educator, and I am working diligently and meeting with a couple of different companies in L.A. to make that happen. I am doing a fundraiser with Damone Roberts NY & Woman's Day Magazine, to raise money & awareness for Heart Disease, and I have a couple of awesome Fund Raisers coming up, which I will be doing manicures for and working with great wardrobe stylists, hair stylists & makeup artists. I am starting my own blog by the end of this year, and I also have a new business idea that I will be pursuing, but it's a secret for now! Lol

Thank you Tracy can't wait to see what's next for you!

For more information on Tracylee visit her web page and be sure to follow her twitter.

Ciao for now… Class is dismissed!

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She's Not Just a Manicurist - Master Medi Manicurist Athena Elliot

A few of the many attributes of Athena the Greek Goddess are: arts, industry, wisdom and skill and Athena Elliott. I’ve also had the pleasure of “meeting” Athena via Twitter another sweet and helpful fellow nail professional. I heart her! Get to know Athena bet you will too!





Athena: First let me say thank you so much for being interested in what I do and how I do it. Your blog/site is filled with informative and inspiring people... Thank You!

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! It’s my pleasure Athena… Tell me how long have you been in the industry?

Athena: I have been a nail tech for 30 yrs now.

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! When did you know you wanted to become a nail technician?
Athena: When I was in the 9th grade. Then in the summer of 1980 between 10th&11th grade my parents signed for me to go to vocational beauty school!

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! Other than the state required nail technology program did you receive any additional training before launching your career?

Athena: Well...I have been launching my career every day for the last 30 years! I am a leader by nature. Back then I was so ahead of my time. In fact I won the first nail competition using nail tips w two tone acrylic (pink and natural powders) out of 270 women I placed first. Awarded the Southwest title and a seat at the Nail Olympics in '86. Cont education is the key. You are only as good and successful as your learning curve. I have made many advances in my career. The one I am most proud of is becoming the countries first Medical Nail Technician.

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! What would you say are the biggest misconceptions about the industry and nail technicians specifically?

Athena: That all Asian salons are dirty and cheap. I have seen many many filthy nail techs/salons run by different ethnic groups including Caucasian. Disease and lack of sanitation knows no prejudice. The other is the misconception that "enhancements" ruin your natural nails. People these products are created for your nails! Uneducated techs, improper removal, not getting maintenance on time are all contributing to this idea that enhancements ruin your nails!! It's just no so.

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! Would you say that you have a niche, or is there anything particular that your clients or industry peers would say you're known for?

Athena: Aside from leading my industry with Advanced Nail Care I have been published in many medical journals for my Prosthetic Toenail Series and contributed to "Death By Pedicure, Dirty Secretes of Nail Salon"




BEAUTYSCHOOLED! Minx is all the new rage but Celebs have been getting Minxed for some time now. How long have you been Minxing and what drew you to this cutting edge trend?


Athena: While Minx has been out for two years, I have been "minxtified" for a little over a year. Since I am a former "Nail Tech of the Year" recipient and contributing writer for Nails Mag I never miss the "new product" section. There was an ad for a new type of BLING that polish just couldn’t compare. I didn’t have a clientele for Minx. I learned and they just found me. That simple.



BEAUTYSCHOOLED! What’s a typical working day like for you?

Athena: In by 7:30 work non stop minxing, lots of doctor referred pedicures, sequin nails...orchestrating events and travel plans and generating several new ideas for marketing every hour! I have trained five satellite locations to Minx and I'm working on two more. Out by 7pm. That’s 5 days a week. The other two days I manage 3 websites and all my own marketing.




BEAUTYSCHOOLED! Okay I'm dizzy just trying to imagine all of that. It seems that every up and coming beauty pro wants to work with celebrities. What advice do you have for someone new who is trying to break into the industry and wanting to work with celebrities?

Athena: Move to LA! lol no not really but dang living in LA or NY sure makes for more work than living in a place as wonderfully behind in fashion as Houston! HA! I’m really just breaking into the entertainment industry myself. So. I have three rules...I say never pass up a marketing moment. While that might be cheesy to say, I’m never without my media bag! Complete with 2 camcorders, 2 jump drives, my lap top, camera and all the cables needed to catch that special video/photo to put on my website! Number two...it's easier to ask for forgiveness than it is for permission when it comes to being "paparazzi ready". Number three... NEVER be without your business card. I go through at least 1000 every month!

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! Do you provide any mentoring or training for new nail techs?
Athena: Yes I prefer to call it FEM-Toring! lol I have always been available to industry peeps through email ,text and now tweets. I am currently training Minx until the Minx Nails company rolls out their training program in 2010.

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! So what’s next for you? Any projects in the works that you can share with the readers?

Athena: I have taken on the most "aspirational" project of my career. I am filming a documentary on a woman named Ayanna Williams called LIVING LONG-NAIL ADDICTION. Ayanna has natural nails 14-16 inches long and has been growing them for 13 years. This is a story about how her nails are affecting her life. You can see snippets on my blog .

Thank you Athena for that great interview be sure to check out Athena’s sites mentioned above and follow her Twitter.

Ciao for now… Class is Dismissed!

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Haute Hands - Circa Shop

I didn't get a chance to watch the Soul Train Music Awards but I did see the Twitter chatter about Fantasia's fashion especially her glove. You've gotten to know Toye Adedipe once on BeautySchooled! as the Image Maker of the week, now get to know him as the accessory designer and founder of CircaShop.com. I'm so happy and proud couldn't be happening to a better person! Check the interview for the special discount code for all BeautySchooled! readers at the Circa Shop.






BEAUTYSCHOOLED! Why'd you decide to open an online store?


Toye Adedipe: As a Fashion stylist, I've learned that one of the biggest punctuations to any outfit are accessories! They can tell a story, set a mode, or simply recreate a whole look. I wanted to create a store for people like myself that wanted to pump up the daily wardrobe with amazing pieces that have a high-fashion edge. So Far, all the pieces are handmade and totally ready-to-wear, So it makes it easy for people to relate to the products they may have seen in high-end stores but not want to pay the high-end price-tag. Sticker shock sucks when you see a product you really like so CircaShop makes it easy on your wallet.

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! How did you come up with the name?

Toye Adedipe: Good Question! Well the word "circa" to me means "by way of", "around the time of", or approximate... so when you go to "The Circa Shop", you're getting the accessories and trends as it relates to the "now". It’s never dated or incorrect, it's always current and definitely fashionable! It's "Circa". So at the end of the day-you win!





BEAUTYSCHOOLED! Was your mission to fill a void that was left by what's already out there?

Toye Adedipe: For Sure! I think everyone is a little more careful about how they spend their doe now-a-days, so I wanted to create a shop that you could be happy with the purchases you've made and not break the bank. Plus as a consumer, I've always been more drawn into "Style" as opposed to Fashion"... So when I set out to open up shop, I had to really raise the bar as high as possible when it came to the integrity of the accessories and how they where marketed. That means choosing high quality product with superior details and essentially... happy, returning customers.




BEAUTYSCHOOLED! Why gloves and earrings?

Toye Adedipe: Well, gloves and earrings are just the start and this might have been a little selfish on my end, but... I'm a big leather accessory fan and earrings always seem to make a finishing statement with me! Whenever I style women/celebrities or models, I always have it planned out in my head that I'm going to make it a “POW” statement with a dope leather glove or some type of "talk-about-it" earring or shoe. So when I saw a chance to sell the things that I loved it just made me "go for it"! (it may sound a little funny but in doing this venture I feel like I've become more empowered too) & not because of the "material" but because of the action I was able to take in order to sell the things that spoke to me-to the masses.

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! Did you design them yourself?

Toye Adedipe: The Majority of it. Yup!





BEAUTYSCHOOLED! If so, what inspired your designs?

Toye Adedipe: I L-O-V-E strong women! I can't get enough of them! I surround myself with them and have become an incredible young man because of them! Women that motivate, stimulate and drive you to do better in your life have always inspired me to do MORE! and I wanted to pay tribute so I named a lot (well, all) of the first group of products after some of the most influential women in my life now. Hi MOM!!! *(waves)*

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! Will you expand to other items and/or accessories?

Toye Adedipe: Definitely! Men's products are on the way! MAJOR!





BEAUTYSCHOOLED! You can also add any additional information that you think the readers will want to know...

Toye Adedipe: In celebration to the New Shop, The Circa shop! All Beauty Schooled readers get an additional 15% off all purchases with this discount code: Beauty, Enjoy you guys!!! Toye*


Thanks Toye for the scoop and the reader's discount. Be sure to visit CircaShop.com and follow Toye's Twitter and Blog!

Ciao for now!

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Queen of Talons - London's Top Manicurist Sophy Robson

It’s amazing how what you put into the universe responds in kind whether that be positive or negative so guard your thoughts people! Earlier this year when I decided to enroll in a nail technology program, I started doing research on manicurists and what made the top manicurist… well, so special. In my research I of course came across state side manicurists Deborah Lippmann, Jin Soon, Lisa Logan and Ji Baek, and then... a name I hadn't heard before Sophy Robson the UK's "it" nail girl, the one Mr. Tom Ford calls on for his shoots. The more I learned about Sophy the more blown away I became… In fact Ms. Robson is on my vision board, I love her work ethic especially how she allows her talent to speak for itself as opposed to boasting about her her celebrity roster (which happens to include some Royals) -- who knew just a few short months later that I’d be interviewing her! Her love and passion for what she does is undeniable... Get to know this week’s Image Maker Sophy Robson, you’ll be glad you did!





BEAUTYSCHOOLED! How long have you been in the industry?

Sophy Robson: Nearly 10 years already!

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! When did you know you wanted to become a manicurist?

Sophy Robson: I started by doing my own nails in a French manicure style – there were not many places you could get your nails done in London, at the time so you had to do it yourself. I became obsessed with doing it perfectly.

As soon as I enrolled on a "nail enhancement" course at my local college, I started to get offers of work. It was just starting to get popular here so there was never a conscious decision - it just happened! Oh I had just become a single parent so I needed to earn a living!




BEAUTYSCHOOLED! What would you say are the biggest misconceptions about the industry and manicurist specifically?

Sophy Robson: I don’t know about America, but I felt there was quite snobbery towards the profession when I started. In actual fact the starting pay for a trained nail technician was way higher than a beautician, make up or hair artist. I feel a lot more respected for what I do now than in the early days. I still find some PR companies that are sending polishes out to take up artists who can’t even do nails, which is a bit silly. Things are improving all the time though.
I started my blog as I wanted to show the quality of my work close up, and show it was not retouched. Often, the detail is lost in the photos you see in magazines due to the lighting or lack of sharpness of the image. I was amazed by the International interest and support I began receiving and it has now opened up so many doors, it has been the best thing I could have done. I wanted to show that there is real thought and skill behind it, for all those that thought I "just paint nails for a living"!





BEAUTYSCHOOLED! Would you say that you have a niche, or is there anything particular that your clients or industry peers would say you're known for?

Sophy Robson: I think as nails have become more popular, I have moved beyond just doing a perfect manicure(whether real or fake) or pedicure, to being as creative as I can with it and trying to bring different nail styles to the fore and making nail art stylish and chic.

When I first did extensions on shoots the people I was working with were amazed by how quick and real looking the results were.

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! You were a big presence at all the Fashion Weeks, how does a manicurist make the transition from the salon to editorial work and backstage at Fashion Weeks?

Sophy Robson: The first thing I would suggest is to read all the best current fashion magazines so you can see what kind of nails you will be required to do. You should keep up with all the current trends and new technologies in nails and that means investing TIME and money in yourself. There are no excuses - if you want to do it that bad, you should make it your priority to invest in the best.

It is really hard to break into the fashion industry as it is extremely cliquey and to begin with you will have to work for free to prove yourself, but I believe if you want it badly enough it will happen for you. The opportunities are out there. Working as an assistant is a good way to start working with the right people and to get access to seeing how the fashion world works. By checking editorial credits, you can research who works in the field near you and try contacting their agency to offer your services. You need to throw all your conventional ideas and rules out the window as fashion is a law unto itself.

The problem is working as an assistant is not paid and neither is some editorial work so you will need to build up a clientele to support yourself financially. Unfortunately working in a salon is not easy as you will not be able to get time off for fashion work at short notice, so a lot of schedule juggling is required. When I think back to my early days, the first step I took was to collect photos and tear sheets from model clients (commercial not fashion) put them in an album and took it to agencies to show them how good I was. I have always said you can be amazing at what you do but if you keep it to yourself how is anyone going to know! This is what is so good about the internet, you can put yourself out there and people will come to you if they are interested.



BEAUTYSCHOOLED! What’s a typical working day like for you?

Sophy Robson: What I love about my life is there is no typical day anymore! I am normally working on photo shoots at least 3 days a week. Sometimes they start at 8am or even earlier for commercials, but usually at 9 or 10 on a good day...As long as I have my coffee in the morning I am good to go! My daughter leaves at 730 so we normally have breakfast together. I will either be at a studio or on a location (such as hotels or unusual houses) so I normally have a car to pick me up as I don't drive to work anymore.

Sometimes it is one model and very straightforward, other days there could be up to 6 models and I have to do extensions on everyone. Everyday is different in terms of what the client wants and what the job entails. I also work for other brands such as Chanel and Sisley when they have product launches, which involves demonstrating on the beauty press. I really love that work as well as it allows me to expound my intimate knowledge to a captive audience, and they always really enjoy the experience which gives you amazing job satisfaction.

I also go to my salon The Sophy Robson Nailcare Clinic to meet my own clients or I will have private bookings with some of my elite clientele at their house or wherever they are staying. As well as all that I still have to answer many administrative emails a day, and upload my blog with new posts as I have a loyal following now which is so great. I seem to be doing more and more press interviews which also takes up time.


BEAUTYSCHOOLED! It seems that every up and coming beauty pro wants to work with celebrities. What advice do you have for someone new who is trying to break into the industry and wanting to work with celebrities?

Sophy Robson: I think if you are really good at what you do, celebrities will come to you as word gets around. I would say focus on your abilities and your quality of service as that is way more important in the long term, than chasing after celebrities. Be careful because some celebrities may not appreciate you mouthing off to the media and trying to gain off their glory and that will always be short lived.


BEAUTYSCHOOLED! Do you provide any mentoring or training for new manicurists?

Sophy Robson: I do get a few people writing to me or whatever but I haven really found anyone with the right mental attitude to the industry and this is something you can not teach. I am looking for passion, motivation, dedication and ability. It has taken 10 years to get to this point and I did not have anyone to mentor me. I am trying to explain through my interviews the processes of how to make it work for you. They can come try out as an assistant.

BEAUTYSCHOOLED! So what’s next for you? Are there any projects in the works that you can share with the readers? What about nail trends for the coming year?

Sophy Robson: The media is fixated with nails at the moment, which is great. I hope this will continue. When I first discovered the nail industry, I felt my ideas were so different from what everyone else was doing. For example my first fixation was making the most natural looking nail extensions when everyone else was into the white tip look. I found there was quite a demand for it and at first I used tips and cut out the well area to make the smile line deeper. I learned this technique from a master technician called Tom Holcomb, and it went against what everyone else was doing at the time and others were openly skeptical about the "strength" being lost, which turned out to be nonsense. At the time it was the norm to "blend" tips into the natural nail which was not only time consuming, but had increased risk of filing into natural nail and didn’t look real enough for me when finished.

Then I learned how to sculpt nails with another expert Leighton Denny, but I achieved the more natural effect by mixing white and clear powder before it was common practice to have "customized" white. I am always thinking outside the box and always knew I was in a different world from the rest...in the past year I have become slightly obsessed with modernizing the "nude nail" look as I was so bored of the sheer pink nails. So mannequin effect nails are becoming more and more acceptable, whereas before it was seen as weird looking. Nail designs and embellishments are becoming more and more popular as it loves from The Hood to the High Street.

I also think a longer more pointed shape will become much more common than the still popular squoval shape.

As my name becomes more recognized and my following grows larger, I concentrate on building the Sophy Robson brand so it becomes a commercially viable, International entity.

Thank you so much Sophy for an incredibly insightful and in-depth interview, we are definitely looking forward to what happens next with the Sophy Robson brand.

To learn more about Sophy Robson check out her blog and be sure to follow her twitter.

Ciao for now… Class is dismissed!


{Photo credits: Tom Ford Campaign by Mert & Marcus, Hand shot in UK Vogue by Mark Mattock, Japanese Vogue by Solve Sondsbo}

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