10-05-2025
Shop Like—Makeup Artist Sir John
Shop Like is a column in which Forbes Vetted asks some of the most stylish and notable personalities about their favorite items to buy, gift and receive. Look no further for shopping advice and inspiration.
'I had a brush in my hand before a pencil,' says makeup artist Sir John, who counts Beyoncé, Naomi Campbell, Serena Williams and Margot Robbie as just a few of his many famous clients. 'Painting and drawing was how I understood life. That led me to a performing arts school, and from there, I started working in New York as an editorial makeup artist. It all naturally evolved.'
For Sir John, organization is key to his success, given the many directions he's pulled in and the high-pressure, very public events he gets his clients ready for, including this week's Met Gala. 'Preparation is everything,' he says. 'Whether I'm doing makeup, covering the red carpet or hosting an after-party, I rely on a pre-packed kit to guide the day. I also start with a juice fast and curated wardrobe pieces, making sure everything is aligned before the first call time. Timing is tight, so efficiency is key.'
The former L'Oréal Paris creative director and current Kilian Paris creative director is also known for his impeccable style and flawless look, which seems nearly impossible to pull off given his schedule, but he makes perfection look easy. Below, we ask Sir John about some of his favorite things that fuel his success and keep him looking polished, airport after airport.
Bally
Something He Bought for Himself That He Loves
'My Bally's bag. It's luxe and fits everything from skincare to my laptop.'
Inkas Armored
Something He's Owned for a Long Time That He Would Buy Again
'My Mercedes G 63 wagon. Hands down my favorite purchase ever in life.'
Medicube
His Favorite Gadget or Tech Product
'Skin changes with season, age, environmental stressors, etc. The Medicube Age-R Booster Pro is an easy, on-the-go gadget that gives my skincare routine an extra boost. It gives me that extra boost to get through the day confidently.'
Amazon
The Office Product That Helps Him Stay Organized
'A classic notepad. I still love taking notes by hand. I'm old-school.'
Walmart
His Favorite Beauty Product
'Medicube Collagen Jelly Cream! It keeps my skin super hydrated throughout the day. Also, I take polyrhachis ant powder daily.'
Amazon
His Favorite Sleep Product
'Lion's Mane drops and magnesium to repair my brain [and] get a great REM sleep.'
Amazon
His Favorite Book, Podcast or App
'When I'm in a car or moving around, I listen to Brooke DeVard's Naked Beauty podcast. Also, The Art of Seduction by Robert Greene.'
Amazon
Something Unexpected He Always Has On Him
'Good energy is always needed, so I have to have palo santo.'
Away
His Favorite Suitcase or Travel Product
'I am on a plane at least once a month, so I need a durable suitcase that I can trust, and that is my Away one.'
Sephora
Most Frequently Used Makeup Product on His Clients
'The base is an important part of any makeup look, so it would be a radiant finish foundation and a skin prep serum tailored to each client's skin. Danessa Myricks' Yummy Skin Glow Serum is perfect for this effect because it hydrates the skin with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide.'
Upneeq
His Go-To Essential for Feeling Refreshed
'I always keep Upneeq eye drops on hand. Since I'm constantly on the go, these help keep my eyes lifted and refreshed so I look my best for whatever the day has in store.'
Nordstrom
'First off, a fresh rose fragrance, since it sets the tone for the day!'
Paravel
'Lastly, Paravel organizers packed with skincare essentials that stay by my side all day.'
