‘‘I guess, things can get a little crazy for us when you have top models running late, with a full look on from the previous show. If there’s no time, they’ll have to get dressed first, then do their makeup in line-up,” Regan Rabanal says, then pauses. Through the phone, there is the sound of water splashing into a glass. The senior manager of makeup artistry at M.A.C Cosmetics takes a sip and continues, “Line-up is where everyone starts lining up right before they get sent out to the runway. It can get quite hysterical. I remember we spotted a huge bruise on this girl’s knee in lineup, and she was wearing a gown with a slit. The line was moving, we’re all on our knees trying to conceal this bruise, using portable light to correctly blend things out, and the girl was getting flustered,” he says. “But that’s like the worst of it. Was it a catastrophe? Nah.”
It’s 11am on a Monday and I felt a small tinge of guilt chatting Rabanal up on the realities of being backstage this early in the day. His many riveting stories were enough to keep this writer at the edge of her seat. I wondered if he could feel my anxiety as I listened to him narrate his experiences all the way from Hong Kong, where he’s currently based, experiences that included a makeup artist “somehow forgetting [his] perfectly clean makeup brushes” and “sometimes having only 15 minutes to put on a look”. We both shared a chuckle, and he tells me that the mood backstage is more exciting and invigorating, as fashion shows tend to come hand in hand with lots of energy from people with dynamic personalities. “We always just smile through it, concentrate, and have teamwork,” he says.
This story is from the March 2021 edition of ELLE Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the March 2021 edition of ELLE Singapore.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
In Full Bloom
Milly Carnivora is back with three new jewellery designs bearing the same hallmarks that made it a Dior classic.
Who's That Girl?
For 2024, Dior proposes a new interpretation of its iconic Miss Dior—one that returns to the fragrance’s very roots in 1947. Natalie Portman shares her thoughts on the floral and fruity scent.
Imperfection Is The New Perfection
From artfully déshevelled, onthe-run looks to everyday-core, the rising runway aesthetic is one of considered widoneness. How will it translate in real life?
Dear Agony Aunt: What Should I Do?
The business of giving advice is booming, but who is qualified to offer guidance?
Follow The Green Path
Our pursuit of harmony with the planet is mirrored in the choices we make. We seek to adopt the best practices, drawing nourishment and inspiration from nature itself. Fortunately, the beauty industry is exploring promising avenues in this regard.
Bring On The Glow
Founding director of the Global Centre for Asian Women’s Health, Professor Cuilin Zhang shares why more should be invested in women’s health.
Harmony AMIDST THE HUSTLE
To cope with the relentless pace of corporate life, New York Times bestselling author Deepak Chopra unveils the keys to tranquility in the concrete jungle.
Embrace the Art OF JEONG
Creator of premium skincare brand Then I Met You, Charlotte Cho wants you to take a moment for yourself to connect with people… and your beauty products.
GO, GO, Gadget
From an AI-powered bespoke lipstick maker to at-home microdermabrasions, here are the latest gadgets for head-to-toe beauty to get your hands on.
STRAIGHT TO Perfection
From hot combs to keratin treatments and the craze on liquid hair, we take a look at hair straighteners of the past, present, and near future.