How I became a vintage make-up artist: Fiona Poliri, Bygone Bombshell

Fiona Poliri, 31, spends her days powdering noses and perfecting vintage waves.

Working as a hair stylist and make-up artist for Bygone Bombshell Beauty Parlour, Fiona transports her clients’ style to a different era in time.

We caught up with her to ask how she turned her love of make-up and vintage fashion into a career.

Q: Fiona, tell us what you do at Bygone Bombshell Beauty Parlour?

My job involves transforming my clients into pretty pin-ups and vintage bombshells. Be it a wedding, prom, TV appearance, a hen party or a night out, I love to go back in time with hair and make-up, and create a look which suits each client’s unique face.

Q: What do you love about your job?

I love seeing a look come together, and the excitement in my clients’ faces as they see their finished look. I’m a bit obsessed with looking at ladies’ faces and deciding which decade I’d place them in.

Q: What have been the highlights of your career so far?

I’d say working at the Hemmingway Vintage Festival was a definite career highlight for me.

It was such an incredible event, and I was working alongside some very talented individuals. Featuring on STV’s Riverside Show was a proud moment as well. It was strange being on the other side of the camera for a change.

Q: What’s the biggest challenge you face in your job?

One of the challenges of a creative career is staying ahead of the game. Make-up artistry is such a popular career choice these days, and there are some very talented ladies and gentlemen in the industry. Keeping focused on your own unique talent and style is important in order to stand out amongst the competiton.

Q: What about training?

Studying at a good college or make-up school is important. I did a couple of great make-up courses at The Academy of Makeup Scotland. The after support I received was invaluable, from director Sara Hill and a number of other top artists in the industry.

They are always happy to have a quick chat and advise you on how to get where you want to be. Networking is so important, and getting a portfolio with high quality images is a great start. Taking any work you can to begin with, whilst you gain experience and confidence is essential.

Bygone Bombshell Beauty Parlour is based in central Scotland. For more information on becoming a make-up artist, visit myworldofwork.co.uk