Following a high-energy opening, the World of Fashion festival shifted gears for its second masterclass, diving deep into the technical world of professional artistry. The session, titled “Beauty Editorial: From Concept to Canvas,” was led by Mariam Khairallah, the Global Senior Makeup Artist at MAC Cosmetics. While the first session was about the artist’s touch, this session focused on the industry standards required for global fashion publications and runways.
Khairallah brought her extensive backstage experience to the forefront, offering the audience a rare insider’s look at what actually happens behind the scenes of a fashion shoot. She explained that editorial makeup differs significantly from everyday wear or social media trends. It is not merely about application; it is about storytelling. She emphasized that every look begins with a concept, serving a specific narrative that aligns with the lighting, the clothing, and the photographer’s vision.
During the demonstration, Khairallah focused heavily on the fundamentals of structure and light. She showed the audience how to manipulate the texture of the skin to reflect light perfectly for the camera, a crucial skill for any aspiring session artist. She moved away from heavy contouring, showing instead how to use highlighting and subtle shading to respect the natural bone structure of the face. Her approach was methodical and precise, reflecting the high standards associated with MAC Cosmetics.
The crowd, comprised of aspiring makeup artists and beauty enthusiasts, took detailed notes as she broke down the difference between “looking good in person” and “translating well on camera.” By the end of the session, Khairallah had successfully demystified the intimidating world of high-fashion beauty, proving that with the right understanding of light and structure, makeup becomes a powerful tool for visual storytelling.
The Dubai Mall Festival of Fashion is a new two-day event aimed at positioning the mall as a global capital for style and creativity, not just shopping. Held on January 29 and 30, the festival transforms the Grand Atrium into a hub for the industry, featuring 12 exclusive masterclasses led by regional and international experts. In collaboration with the media platform Lana, the event offers a mix of educational sessions, brand activations, and runway shows. The festival will conclude with the Dubai Mall Global Fashion Awards at the Armani Hotel, celebrating key figures who have shaped the industry this year.
