matthew allen
New York, New York
With a passion for bridal, editorial, and red-carpet beauty, Matthew brings an element of
glamour and glow to every look—propelling him to major events like New York Fashion Week
and The Oscars.
glamour and glow to every look—propelling him to major events like New York Fashion Week
and The Oscars.
behind the
beauty
beauty
When did you know you wanted to work in beauty?
I come from a very long line of strong, beautiful women. My grandmother (my Nonna) came from Rome at the age of 15 and married my grandpa. She wore heels and put on makeup (full glam) every single morning while raising five children in a foreign country. That is an image of beauty that I always hold near and dear to my heart.
I come from a very long line of strong, beautiful women. My grandmother (my Nonna) came from Rome at the age of 15 and married my grandpa. She wore heels and put on makeup (full glam) every single morning while raising five children in a foreign country. That is an image of beauty that I always hold near and dear to my heart.
What is your makeup philosophy?
Makeup shouldn’t feel like a chore or a task. It should feel like a ritual or a reason to celebrate your beauty. If it doesn’t, then you haven’t had the right experience. I love to be a part of creating that experience.
Makeup shouldn’t feel like a chore or a task. It should feel like a ritual or a reason to celebrate your beauty. If it doesn’t, then you haven’t had the right experience. I love to be a part of creating that experience.
Do you have any hidden talents?
I’m an excellent whistler, and my whistle has been used in professional recordings. I also love to sing and dance. I’m a HUGE theater dork.
I’m an excellent whistler, and my whistle has been used in professional recordings. I also love to sing and dance. I’m a HUGE theater dork.
What is your favorite memory of working as a makeup artist?
While working in LA, I was very active in bridal. My favorite memories always involve working with a bride on her big day, especially watching the moment she is revealed to her loved ones. It never gets old.
While working in LA, I was very active in bridal. My favorite memories always involve working with a bride on her big day, especially watching the moment she is revealed to her loved ones. It never gets old.
If you could time-travel to any era, which one would you pick?
It would definitely be the '70s. I LIVE for the fashion, the glam, the lifestyle, the music. I feel like I was a hippie in another life. Peace and love, baby.
It would definitely be the '70s. I LIVE for the fashion, the glam, the lifestyle, the music. I feel like I was a hippie in another life. Peace and love, baby.
in his kit
Vitamin Enriched Face Base
“I’m a firm believer that beautiful makeup begins with beautiful skin. This formula leaves skin perfectly hydrated and prepped for makeup.”
Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick
“I love this product because it’s easy to use, instantly effective, and totally versatile.”
Intensive Skin Serum Foundation
SPF 40/35
SPF 40/35
“This product never ceases to impress me. Not only is it loaded with skin-loving ingredients, but it also gives skin a radiant finish.”
Bronzing Powder
“I love our bronzers because they offer a wide variety of tones that mimic a natural tan and give skin a healthy-looking warmth.”
Follow Matthew
Explore his latest tutorials, tips and tricks @makeupbymatthewmbm
