Donald Simrock The Midas Touch

Donald Simrock, the Official Make-up Expert for Lakmé Fashion Week Winter/Festive 2016, is at the forefront of the beauty industry for creating pathbreaking looks that have translated into major make-up trends. With an elite client list including Madonna, Britney Spears, Eva Mendez, to name a few, Simrock shares his experience of working in India with Salon India

What inspired you to become a make-up artist and how did you get started?

I began working with make-up in the unconventional settings of nightclubs and discotheques across Europe and New York City. I had no formal training, which allowed me the opportunity to try things that would normally be considered ‘taboo’ or ‘against the rules’ of traditional beauty. I later apprenticed with Pat Macgrath before entering into the market on my own. It was under Pat’s guidance that I understood the mechanics of the industry and how to handle the workload. You cannot put a price on that type of experience. I never really took any courses in make-up. I learned through personal experience and my apprenticeship with Pat.

What was your first big break?

Upon my arrival in Los Angeles, I was asked to work with Madonna. I would say that was my first big break in the music business!

What are the products you swear by?