meet virginia
Story by Susan O'Connor, Photo by Dero Sanford
Virginia McIntosh has that je ne sais quois. Seemingly without effort, she has a presence that is the essence of style.
“I developed a strong interest in fashion and makeup at an early age,” the tall, model-thin beauty said. “I devoured every fashion and beauty magazine I could get my hands on, and I still do. The checkout line at the grocery store can be a dangerous place for me. I am like a kid in a candy store in Sephora. I am fascinated with the colors, texture and the packaging of makeup. Growing up, I loved experimenting on my friends and family. At age four, I can remember getting such a thrill out of putting lipstick on my aunt. I loved playing beauty shop!”
A graduate of Jonesboro High School, McIntosh was a Delta Delta Delta at the University of Arkansas. She is truly the face of Eden Spa, where she performs facials and skin treatments, which involves an evaluation of each client’s skin, as well as a customized skincare plan. And not surprisingly, she is also a makeup artist.
“As much as I love makeup, skincare comes first. I have had multiple trainings with Nars cosmetics and will continue. I do makeup consultations as well.
“Nars was developed by legendary makeup artist Francois Nars. He has worked with the most sought after starlets, every supermodel imaginable and the most popular fashion magazines, including Vogue. I attend continuing education classes for aesthetics every year to stay on the cutting edge of the ever-changing beauty and skincare industry.”
When you give someone a makeover, do you instinctively know what shades of makeup will be most flattering? Yes, I have always had an eye for color. I can quickly visualize what would flatter your complexion. Many times I surprise women with colors that they wouldn’t ordinarily choose. It is important to focus on the positive and minimize the negative.
What are the biggest makeup faux pas made by women in various age groups? Women in their 20s tend to wear too much makeup. This age group usually needs less coverage than older women. Foundation is meant to even out your skin, not mask it. Women in their 30s and 40s always think neutral means brown. Brown is not necessarily bad, but experimenting with color can be fun and surprisingly easy to wear. It is easy for this age group to get into a rut because they are so busy with their careers and family. Older women wear their lipstick too dark. This can be harsh and aging. Softer colors brighten your face for a more youthful appearance. The biggest mistake that women of all ages make is not wearing sunscreen and caring for their skin. It is never too early or too late to start. Great skin is the first step to looking beautiful.
Who are your greatest style inspirations? My mom was an enormous influence in my life in terms of fashion and beauty. We always had so much fun picking out the perfect outfit for every occasion. She always said, “Clothes don’t make the man, but they introduce him.” I love the glamour of old Hollywood movie stars like Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn and Bridgette Bardot. I have also always loved the bohemian style of Kate Moss and Kate Hudson. They look great in an effortless way. My current obsession is the fresh fashion of Gossip Girl.
What three items of makeup and/or skincare can you not live without? It is so hard to choose just three! I can’t leave the house without curling my eyelashes. It instantly makes you look more awake and refreshed. My makeup doesn’t look complete without my Glo Minerals highlighter. I have to glow! Last, but definitely not least is my Obagi skincare. It literally makes your skin look lit from within.