Source: Sam Gross / Sam Gross
Welcome to “Beneath The Brush,” where we explore the stories behind some of the most notable MUAs in the game. Each feature will highlight the “why” for each MUA and showcase their career trajectories, go-to products, and makeup tips.
When Ty Hubert was a high school senior experimenting with makeup — only applying eyeshadow, black eyeliner, and lip gloss — she never thought the beauty industry would be her calling. Fashion was her true passion, and dreams of dominating the industry were at the top of her mind. Despite “falling in love with the process of applying makeup,” it served as a relaxation practice. However, Hubert’s fashion dreams slowly faded into the background as her love for makeup artistry blossomed.
“I initially wanted to be a wardrobe stylist. I had my own fashion blog and everything,” Ty exclusively tells HelloBeautiful. “I was ready to be front row at Fashion Week. I had everything figured out, lol. I attended a makeup class held at a local beauty school, and the rest is history.”
As a makeup novice, Ty understood that honing her talent would be a prerequisite for success in the industry. In 2017, Hubert took action by expanding her “network, taking classes and assisting artists [Lola Okanlawon and Keita Moore]” whose work she looked up to.
“My confidence grew, my work elevated, and eventually, those artists started to refer me to clients,” the 34-year-old says. “Shoutout to Lola Okanlawon; she referred me to my first celebrity client.”
Since then, Ty has been locked in and focused on making her mark in the beauty industry. Her client list reads as a who’s who of Black excellence, including Ari Lennox, Tika Sumpter, Slick Woods, Jayme Lawson, and more. In addition, Hubert has worked with Fenty Beauty, Target, Hanifa, and various editorial outlets.
“It’s a strange feeling because I’ve had so many great opportunities, but I still don’t feel that I’ve officially made it,” Ty shares. “I’m so focused on what’s next that I forget to live in the moment. But that’s something I’m working on.”
Below, Ty shares her definition of beauty, advice for aspiring MUAs, and her must-have makeup essentials.
On how she defines beauty:
“Beauty is confidence, it’s a feeling, it’s individuality. I don’t know how to explain it exactly, but we all know what it feels like. That feeling you get when you put on that one dress and it hugs you in all the right places or when you leave the salon, hair freshly done. Being secure within yourself and owning who you are, that’s beauty.”
On the importance of MUAs getting professional training:
“It’s extremely important. I love that social media has highlighted the creative industry, and through social media, many of us can fast-track our careers. You can literally become an overnight success, and that’s great. But I feel like you miss out on certain learning experiences, such as what to do and what not to do backstage or on set, how to read the room, and when and when not to speak. I learned these things from assisting, and I’m so glad I had that experience.”
Three must-haves in Ty’s beauty kit:
1. “The MAC Chestnut Lip Liner ($25, Ulta.com) because it’s the perfect brown liner for brown girls and a favorite within the community.”
Shop Now2. “The Inglot #77 Gel Eyeliner ($15.25, Amazon.com) because it dries down, doesn’t move, and I haven’t found a black liner that competes.”
3. “The L’Oreal Paris Voluminous Mascara ($8.99, Target.com) formula hasn’t failed me yet. It coats lashes perfectly.”
Shop NowGo-to makeup tip:
“Great skin is the foundation for a flawless makeup application. Invest in good skincare and complexion products.”
Advice for aspiring MUAs:
“Trust yourself, be open to learning, connect with other artists, and never give up. I know we often hear those sayings, but I wouldn’t be where I am today if it wasn’t true.”
Follow Ty Hubert on Instagram here. For appointments, Ty’s portfolio, and more makeup must-haves, check out her website here!
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