By
Claudia Castillo
Let’s face it… Iconic doesn’t begin to describe one of the most influential makeup artists in the world: Pat McGrath. Recognized by Vogue and celebrated globally, Pat has transformed beauty with her artistry, creating stunning looks for fashion shows, photo shoots, editorial spreads, and magazine covers.
Inspired by Pat McGrath, I’m bringing a fresh take on fall makeup to El Paso. Her journey from mixing cocoa powder to creating a billion-dollar brand shows how powerful creativity and persistence can be. Her mantra, “If it doesn’t exist, go create it,” fuels my passion to create unique and playful looks for my clients. By embracing bold colors and innovative techniques, I’m excited to transform everyday beauty routines into seasonal statements that celebrate the spirit of the Fall and the diverse beauty of El Pasoans.
Let’s make this Fall beautiful and unforgettable!
Where did Pat’s remarkable journey begin? To understand her rise, let’s rewind to her early years.
Pat McGrath grew up in 1970s Northampton, England, raised by her single mother, Jean, who had an obsession with makeup. From a young age, Pat was introduced to beauty through her mother’s passion. However, both Pat and Jean faced a challenge—finding makeup that suited their rich skin tones, as most products were designed for lighter shades.
Jean, resourceful and determined, combined various products and even household ingredients like cocoa powder to match her skin tone. She taught Pat a crucial lesson: “If it doesn’t exist, go create it.”
As Pat’s fascination with makeup deepened, so did her unique talent for blending and experimenting with colors. She developed a distinctive style, marked by bold, vibrant looks that diverged from the norm.
One pivotal moment came when Pat was waiting to see a band and was approached by a show host intrigued by her striking makeup. This encounter sparked her realization that makeup artistry would be her lifelong passion.
In the 1990s, makeup trends adhered to the “your skin but better” philosophy, focusing on subtlety and naturalness. Pat, however, shattered these conventions with her groundbreaking, vibrant designs. Her fearless approach and innovation soon garnered widespread attention, establishing her as a rising star in the industry.
Despite her growing reputation, Pat faced significant challenges. In the early 2000s, she pitched her ideas to high-level makeup executives who dismissed her, claiming there wasn’t a market for her unique vision. They failed to see Pat reshaping the makeup landscape by blending edgy and pretty styles, creating a new aesthetic.
Undeterred, Pat drew on her mantra of “If it doesn’t exist, go create it” and built a billion-dollar empire. When traditional routes seemed blocked, she turned to the burgeoning social media platform Instagram. Embracing this new tool, Pat quickly gained a following. Her fans urged her to launch her makeup line, leading to the creation of Pat McGrath Labs in 2015.
Pat’s products debuted on runways and red carpets, positioning them as elite and desirable. This strategy created immense hype, making her products a must-have. The luxurious packaging, such as the glossy black cases with striking gold labels, and the high-quality formulations—including the iconic Gold 001 eyeshadow pigment—captivated beauty enthusiasts. Each product, from the lipsticks to the foundations, offered exceptional performance, with attributes like high pigmentation, easy blendability, and versatile wear.
Pat’s mission was clear: to create products that complement all skin tones. Her commitment to diversity and inclusivity remains a cornerstone of her brand, reflecting her dedication to making beauty accessible and empowering for everyone.
From overcoming challenges in her early career to revolutionizing the beauty industry, Pat McGrath’s story exemplifies the power of perseverance and creativity. Her journey embodies the spirit of her mother’s advice: “If it doesn’t exist, go create it.”
Pat McGrath’s legacy is a testament to the belief that what seems impossible is possible.
