Jennifer Cooper, E! EntertainmentBeauty buffs, meet Tim Quinn.
As the celebrity face designer and vice president of creative artistry at Giorgio Armani Beauty, Mr. Quinn clearly knows a thing or two about makeup. After all, two of his main activities include crafting red carpet beauty for major celebrities (we're talking Kerry Washington, Hilary Swank and more) and working behind-the-scenes at major editorial shoots for the likes of Vogue, Elle and plenty of other big-name publications. Which means, yes, you're probably already familiar with this expert makeup artist's work.
Lucky us, we caught up with the beauty legend on everything from this season's biggest trends to the makeup mistakes you don't even realize your making. Now read on to hear from this trendsetter himself!
What was your first job?
I was always working since I was a young kid—teaching swimming, babysitting and even a brief stint at McDonalds...the outfit didn't work for me. My first job out of college was at Merrill Lynch as a broker trainee.
How did you get started in your career?
I actually wanted to work in cosmetics upon graduation, my fiancée at the time discouraged that career choice... she wanted me in finance. A few years later I found my real personality and was hired to freelance in CT for an agency representing makeup artists and fragrance "models" and I knew I was on the right track.
What is a typical day like for you?
No day is typical, other than it will be chaotic! Most days involve a flight, early call/emails from Kelly (our Vice President of Public Relations) regarding interview requests, scheduling, calendar reviews, etc.—which depending on the time of year could include: makeup for awards shows, editorial shoots, personal appearances, charity events and on a day off, the beach.
Tell us about your office décor. When did you last give your office a makeover?
I updated my office when we moved to our new location. As I'm rarely in my office, not much changes—just a new orchid plant now and again.
What three beauty products should a girl have with her at all times?
Eye Cream (Crema Nera Extrema for an instant eyelift...), our new Luminous Silk Foundation powder for a quick touch up and a nude lip gloss.
What are a few of your beast makeup tips?
1. I'm always tan so I love to add a touch of golden glow, to this I take a bronzer and brush it onto the face in the shape of a three to add dimension and warmth to any complexion )just depends on the tone).
2. Glowing skin is my obsession; use a brightening mask once a week to bring out your inner glow.
3. Rose gold blush looks great on most anyone, and I love #503. Sweep it on a bit high on the cheeks and a touch in the crease of you eye—add a tight line and two coats of mascara and finish with a great nude lip—for a perfect fresh look without too much effort. Makeup application should be effortless and enhance your features without too much artifice.
What beauty looks do you expect to catch on for fall?
The berry toned '90s lip look (love this look paired with a clean complexion), the bronzed look on the eye is a big trend that I love, and works well with a nude or deep lip (try the sheer version of our eye tints #9), and then for sure the graphic lined eye 9open to interpretation and a bit easier to recreate at home than the smoky eye).
What's the biggest mistake most women make with their makeup/beauty products?
There're three main ones. First: Not updating your makeup look seasonally or not updating your makeup look to go with a new hair color, and plastic surgery—we need to revisit and refresh as these things get updated. Second: Too much filler—there is something to be said for letting some character show in your face. Third: Lash extensions—if you have them, you need a regular maintenance schedule—waiting that extra week leaves the lashes looking sad and scraggly.
Who are a few of your celebrities you've worked with in the past? And for which big events ?
I've had the pleasure of working with the incomparable Glenn Close for several years now for everything from the Oscars, the Emmys, movie premieres and even her PSA's for Bring Change 2 Mind. I've also worked with the ever-chic Kerry Washington, for the inauguration of President Obama, the Indie Spirit Awards, the White House correspondent dinner and various Washington D.C. and New York events, and the amazing Hilary Swank for a host of red carpet events.
What's the best part about your job?
As much as I adore working with celebrities and at VIP events, the most joy I get comes from my work with women dealing with cancer. The transformative power of makeup, coupled with compassion, (especially as I'm a cancer survivor) brings alive the beauty that lies within at a time when women are feeling most vulnerable.
What's the most daring career risk you've ever taken?
Moving to New York to launch Giorgio Armani Beauty. We launched Sept. 11, 2001, all my friends thought I was insane to move to the city to try and launch this brand, but I believed Mr. Armani's vision was on point, I trusted in the GM, and the head of PR, who has become a lifelong friend.
Who are some of your career heroes?
Carol Hamilton, President of Loreal Luxe, because she's one of the most inspiring women I've had the pleasure of knowing and has all the qualities I admire, George Hamilton (not just because of the tan—his charm and elegance has always inspired me) and of course Mr. Armani.
What is the best piece of advice you've ever received?
Years ago when I was at Merrill Lynch, a senior broker met with me, she said that I should always surround myself with people who would motivate me, inspire me and appreciate me—I've been fortunate that I am surrounded by amazing friends and colleagues who possess all these qualities and more...
Finish the sentences below:
Today for lunch I had… grilled salmon with steamed broccoli, glass of Rose and a large bottle of Pellegrino.
The first website I log onto every day is… Facebook.
My usual Starbucks order is… venti cool lime refresher.
If I wasn't doing this job, I would… continue my education to become a psychiatrist.
My favorite place to visit is… Hotel Augustus, forte de marmi.
List five things that are on your desk right now… a new skincare project for next year, new ecstasy lacquer swatches, my calendar (which changes daily), a book I'm re-reading (Beautiful Ruins) and sun oil.