Alex T is a leading makeup artist and session hairstylist specializing in fashion and advertising. After a standout debut with the Fall 2022 Collection Campaign, she became a trusted collaborator across 17 major initiatives, from web and in-store shoots to major seasonal collections like Lunar New Year and Petrvs.
She has styled high-profile talent such as Francisco Lindor for the 2023 GQ Global Creativity Awards and worked with models like James Turlington and Martha Hunt. Her commercial clients include Nautica, Aeropostale, Lucky Brand, Equinox, and Oscar de la Renta, among others.
Alex’s editorial work has appeared in Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Elle, Esquire, and more, solidifying her reputation as a versatile and in-demand artist.
We thank Alex for sharing her insights, experiences, and the inspiring journey behind her remarkable career.
IMAGE: ANTHONY TRIPOLI
What initially inspired you to pursue a career in makeup artistry, particularly in fashion and editorial work?
I reached a point in my life where I felt a deep need for change and a strong desire to pursue something I truly enjoyed—no matter what it might be. I asked myself what brought me joy and fulfillment that I could also turn into a career, and the answer to that was makeup.
Initially, I had envisioned a path in television and film, but that direction quickly shifted toward fashion, editorial, and commercial work. At the time, I was based in Singapore, where the film industry was virtually non-existent, and so the opportunities that aligned with my passion led me into the world of fashion.
Can you walk me through your creative process when preparing for a fashion or commercial shoot?
Some shoots call for a more minimal approach, while others invite a greater level of creativity. No matter the direction, I always begin by learning about the client—whether it’s a brand, model, actor, or public figure. Understanding their personality, preferences, and overall vibe helps me shape an initial vision.
Whenever possible, I ask for a creative brief—this could be anything from a mood board or reference images to general inspiration they had in mind. From there, I build upon that foundation and add my own touch.
When there’s room for creative freedom, I make it a point to check in with the rest of the team to understand their ideas and intentions. I never want anything I execute to feel out of place or disconnected—it should seamlessly support and elevate the larger creative vision. Collaboration is at the heart of what we do in this industry, and I always strive to ensure the final result feels cohesive and intentional.
Which project or collaboration has been the most meaningful or career-defining for you so far, and why?
It’s hard to choose just one project or collaboration that stands out, because I genuinely believe that every experience I’ve had has played a role in shaping the path that brought me to where I am today.
That said, there are moments I look back on with a deep sense of joy—particularly those where meaningful connections were formed and grew into ongoing creative partnerships.
There’s something incredibly fulfilling about working with people who trust and inspire you—it creates a space where you feel safe to experiment, push boundaries, and bring your very best to the table. Those relationships have been some of the most rewarding aspects of my journey so far and have brought me many wonderful projects.
How do you stay current with trends while maintaining your own signature style?
Thankfully, with the way social media works today, staying on top of trends has never been easier. That said, I try not to box myself into having a single “signature style.”
While it’s important to have a point of view, I find greater value in staying flexible and adaptable—it’s what allows me to keep exploring, evolving, and growing creatively.
What’s one challenge you frequently face on set, and how do you overcome it?
There are certainly periods where my schedule is packed—working back-to-back days for weeks at a time, often with long hours and little downtime.
It can be physically and mentally demanding, but I’ve learned to stay focused and disciplined by creating a routine amidst the chaos. Prioritizing rest and recovery is essential—it allows me to consistently perform at a level that not only meets but exceeds what’s expected of me.
How do you approach working with different teams—like photographers, stylists, and models—to ensure a cohesive final look?
I always start by having conversations with the team and listening carefully to what everyone is aiming to achieve.
Understanding the collective vision helps me ensure that the makeup complements the overall concept. Open communication and collaboration are key—it ensures that the final look feels cohesive, polished, and intentional.
What advice would you give to aspiring makeup artists who want to break into the fashion and commercial industries?
Be prepared to work harder than you ever expected!
Success in this industry requires not only talent but also resilience, dedication, and a true passion for the craft. Stay curious, keep learning, and never lose sight of why you started.
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