Some nicknames transpire from childhood, others, an embarrassing college mishap, or in Sweet P Vaughn's case, an all-girl's motorcycle gang. You may recognize her as a top 5 finalist from Project Runway, but today her work is behind the scenes glamming up stars like Chloe Sevigny or as James Franco's go-to for grooming and creating faux tattoos for movies like The Disaster Artist. Sweet P's style can only be described as old Hollywood glamour meets badass biker babe.
Sweet P's ability to reinvent herself is noteworthy to say the least. After spending a majority of her career as a designer, with multiple appearances on Project Runway, creating her own collection and working with brands like bebe, she decided she was ready for a new challenge; makeup. Her first gig as a makeup artist's assistant paid a day rate of just $65, but Sweet P was persistent, she showed up every day (even on days she wasn't scheduled) and quickly made a name for herself. She has since worked on projects directed by Vincent D’onofrio, Roman Coppola and Quentin Tarantino just to name a few.
I got the chance to sit down with Sweet P and chat all things beauty—her favorite products, the most overrated trends, the best drugstore buys and the new and noteworthy to watch out for this spring.
Morning skin routine?
I always get compliments on my skin when I use The Ordinary's "Buffet" and Hyaluronic Acid followed by Revision's Tinted Moisturizer (SPF 45). I like to keep my makeup simple, I use L’Oréal Voluminous Mascara, a light lipstick like Burt's Bees Lip Crayon, and for brows it’s all about Anastasia of Beverly Hills. (Images by Skinstore & Revision)
Splurge-worthy products?
Biologique Recherche Lotion P50: I treated myself to this toner/exfoliant. It's quite pricey but it is AMAZING. It immediately refreshes, tones and hydrates skin. (Image via BR)
New and noteworthy products?
Koh Gen Doh Maifanshi Aqua Foundation: Ok, this stuff is incredible. The most amazing foundation I have come across. It's light, dewy and the perfect amount of coverage and like all of the Koh Gen Do products, it's amazing for your skin. (Image via KGD)
What's the best thing you can do for your skin before a big event?
Don't do anything different!! I can't tell you how many times I've seen people who say they just tried tea tree oil or a fancy exfoliant and their skin gets completely inflamed. Until you have time to test things out or speak with a professional, don't change anything.
Best career advice you've received?
Be on time, have a good attitude and never discuss religion or politics.
Most overrated beauty trend?
Can we say, "overused"? Contouring. I'm totally over it. What I love about makeup is that it can make you look like the best version of you, not a completely different person.
Most underrated beauty trend?
Anything natural. Brands have slowly come around to it and thankfully the whole powdered matte look is done, but I love brands like Glossier who are highlighting what can be done with the least amount of product.
Best drugstore buys?
L'Oreal Colour Riche Balm Pop Lipstick: Honestly, I can't even keep these on me because I wind up giving them all to my clients they love them so much!
Maybelline Great Lash: I think every client I've worked with says their go-to mascara is by Maybelline. This is Chloe Sevigny's favorite.
Burt's Bees Matte Lip Crayon: Subtle tint in a variety of shades that are perfect for everyday.
Best beauty tip?
Hydration, hydration, hydration, fitness and nutrition. Hydration is like the cardinal rule in beauty. When I was in cosmetology school there were so many young girls with terrible skin. I wondered why, until lunchtime they'd be eating fried food, sodas, sugar—awful! Good skin starts with taking care of yourself... Oh! And stay out of the sun! If my younger self only knew what I know now. Wear sunscreen EVERY SINGLE DAY. NO MATTER WHAT.
Chloe Sevigny's makeup look you chose for Vanity Fair's Oscar party Sunday night:
2. The Ordinary Buffet & Hyaluronic Acid
5. Tom Ford eyeshadows
6. Clé de Peau Beauté concealer
9. Her lipstick is by La Bouche Rouge and it's in her signature color (pictured).
Most memorable job?
My recent work on the two-hour musical for "Transparent". Not only was the makeup incredibly fun—we did glitter, neon, bright colors—but there were dancers of all shapes and sizes strutting around, it was so refreshing to see women in their 40's and 50's not trying to look 20, who gladly took compliments, they didn't play it small. Every day (creator, Jill Soloway) kicked off the morning with an exercise called "The Box", where someone stands on a box in front of the entire crew and shares something they're going through or what they're grateful for, it just created a closeness and community that was incredible to be part of.