Nam Vo, Makeup Artist: Birchbox Crush

Bring on the glam! Pro tips from a sassy makeup artist

Five minutes into our first conversation, Nam Vo has already touched on the subjects of Italian food (loves it), airbrush foundation (hates it), and Physique 57, the cult exercise class (necessary; see “Italian food”). We’re smitten and we haven’t even seen what she can do to our face. Vo moved to New York from San Francisco less than a year ago and has already established herself as one of the city’s top makeup artists. We got her secrets.

Play up your cheekbones with a little highlighter — I don't mean glitttery disco ball — something subtle and reflective.

What’s your makeup style?

I don't really have one. My work ranges from clean and natural to neon colors for editorials. But I do have to say a sexy, smoky eye never gets old and that is something I really love to do.

Always in your bag?

YSL Touche Eclat highlighter and stila convertible color cream blush in Poppy.

Current Obsessions

Smashbox Photo Finish Primer, NARS Giza Lip Gloss, fresh Tunisian Bronze Bronzer, and Face Stockholm Eye Dust in Passion — I put the eye dust on cheeks, lips, everywhere!

What’s an easy way to change things up?

Try a cream blush or cheek stain. Nothing looks healthier and they blend into the skin without looking "makeup-y.” Play up your cheekbones with a little highlighter — I don't mean glitttery disco ball — something subtle and reflective.

 - By Mollie Chen