Written by Natasha Lawrence

Earlier this week, TS briefly touched on how Violet Grey was one of our favourite shops to visit in LA, but I need to get into more detail as to why. If you subscribe to the Violet Grey Newsletter, you get a pretty good idea that they’re not your average beauty shop. They frequently “get ready” with today’s leading actresses, all their products are approved by “The Violet Code”, and they not only sell the best products, but they are a source of inspiration on how to use them.

Naturally, I had to do more than stop by on this visit to LA. This time, instead of only perusing the store, I met with the store director, Marisa Anhaltzer for one of Violet Grey’s legendary beauty appointments.

The store itself is tucked away behind a red door and ivy covered walls. From the moment you step inside, you are immediately immersed in a feeling of Old Hollywood glamour. Vintage photos are mixed with Tom Ford displays and books on Chanel are laid out beside Maison Pearson brushes. It’s a small store, but it packs a big impact.

For my appointment, I was led to a back room that is a dream to get ready in. Vintage mirrors are placed all around and the walls are covered in cut-out and taped inspiration photos, and vintage dress illustrations. There, I sat on a director’s chair while Marisa walked me through my appointment.

Before we begin, I have to inform you that I’m a skeptic when it comes to make-up applications. As I’ve mentioned many times before, my skin tone doesn’t fall in the fair through dark range, and foundation has always been tricky for me. I alway’s prefer to do my own make-up than trust someone to apply layer after layer of concealer and such.

Now that that’s out of the way, I can say that at Violet Grey, I met the first make-up artist who really got my view on how I want to look. Marisa shared my belief that it’s the skin underneath that really creates a beautiful make-up look. So, most of my application was based on making my skin glow with the help of serums and oils. I picked up a mantra from Marisa that I now repeat in the mirror every morning while moisturizing my face: “You moisturize in the direction you want the skin to go.”

From there, Charlotte Tilbury’s Wonderglow replaced the usual layers of foundation and contouring, much to my relief. As for the actual make-up that went on: Marisa gave me a smokey eye and a neutral lip to go along with it.

I walked out of the appointment with my skin feeling the freshest it’s ever felt, and that is still with make-up on. I felt radiant and not clogged down by all the products that were applied. Thank you Marisa!

Next time you find yourself if the Melrose area, make sure you stop by Violet Grey. Make-up appointments are complimentary with a minimum purchase of $250 worth of product. #Bonus!