Runway Artist. Trendsetter. Futurist.
Bold, experimental, and unmistakably himself – Mokgadi has become one of South Africa’s most exciting runway and trends makeup artists. Known across fashion weeks from Paris to Johannesburg, and affectionately called “the lipstick guy,” his work blends fashion intuition with fearless creativity. In this conversation, he opens up about his journey, the future of makeup, and what it really takes to thrive backstage.
Y3K makeup is coming in strong. And skin-focused makeup is here to stay – glowing, real, breathable skin. People want makeup that looks like them. Not a mask
How did you start working with major beauty brands?
“Honestly, by accident. I was working in retail after studying fashion, thinking I’d become this incredible designer one day. I went into retail to understand how the industry works because I dreamed of opening my own store. And then one of the major beauty brands discovered me. They liked my style, asked me to join the company – and that’s how I became a makeup artist.”
“I started with MAC Cosmetics 13 years ago, and I’m still here, still doing what I love.”
What has been your most memorable project or fashion show?
“Paris Fashion Week will always be the highlight. I got to work with Rick Owens and Balmain – two of my favourite designers. Their makeup looks are always insane in the best way: alien-like, powerful, futuristic. And because I studied fashion, collaborating with designers of that calibre is a dream. Their aesthetic speaks my language.”
Where did you study fashion?
“I studied at TUT Arts & Design Campus in Pretoria. I graduated… and guess what? I never became a designer.” (Laughs)
What skills should every makeup artist master?
“Knowledge is key. We have Google – use it. Not everyone can afford formal training, and that’s okay. But learn your colour theory. It’s the foundation of everything.”
“And study faces. Everyone has a different face shape, eye shape, lip shape. You can’t do the same makeup on every person. Once you understand facial structure and colour, you can do makeup on anyone.”
What makeup look are you currently obsessed with?
“I’m loving trends right now – especially Y3K makeup. Think futuristic: silvers, golds, and metallics used in unconventional ways. Silver in the inner corners, metallics as highlighters or eyeliners… Y3K is the next big thing. Watch out for it!”
What products are essential in your kit?
“A good setting spray – always. Before and after makeup.”
“And I’m a mixologist, so I love multipurpose liquid eyeshadows. You can use them as liners, shadows, or even on the lips. If it does more than one job, it’s in my kit.”
Which trends are becoming big in the makeup industry?
“Y3K makeup is coming in strong. And skin-focused makeup is here to stay – glowing, real, breathable skin. People want makeup that looks like them. Not a mask.”
How do you approach makeup for different skin tones and textures?
“First, I ask people what they actually want to look like. Some want a perfect colour match, some want to look brighter, and others want a bronzed look. So it’s not just about skin tone – it’s about preference.”
“I carry every shade in my kit, but the most important thing is making people look like how they feel. Makeup gives confidence. Give people the version of themselves they love.”
What’s the biggest misconception about editorial makeup?
“That ‘s impossible. Yes, it’s technical, but people overthink it. Study it. Understand where to start and where to finish. And calm your nerves – editorial and runway makeup can sense fear.”
“Breathe, go in with confidence, and you’ll love it.”
How do you prepare for high-pressure events like fashion shows?
“Preparation is everything. I talk to producers and designers beforehand, we agree on looks, and then I create the looks before the show.”
“I then run a masterclass with the makeup artists working with me so that on the day, everyone knows exactly what to do and which products to use. That’s how we stay ready.”
What’s the most challenging part of working backstage?
“Time. Shows run late, and looks need to be changed fast. Models jump from one show to another, so we’re changing hair and makeup under serious pressure.”
“Going from a full glitter look to a no-makeup makeup look in minutes? That’s real pressure.”
What are the best beginner products for aspiring makeup artists?
“Complexion is non-negotiable – foundations and powders come first.”
“Then get a good eyeshadow palette with multiple colours. From that, you can create nude, red, pink, or even mixed lip shades. With complexion and an eyeshadow palette, you can start building everything else.”
How can someone build a strong portfolio?
“Social media is your best friend – that’s where you speak to the public.”
“But beyond likes, remember this: your clients are your loudest voice. When someone loves their makeup, they’ll tell a friend, who’ll tell a family member. That’s how your name grows. Keep your clients happy – that’s the real portfolio.”
Bold, intuitive, and unafraid of the unconventional, Mokgadi is shaping the next era of runway beauty – one Y3K shimmer, one backstage sprint, and one perfectly blended lip at a time.
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