Carl Ray, makeup magician
Mary Lynn Vetri
Chanel’s own lip specialist is your professional resource for any color coordination questions. Vetri is a master with lipsticks and glosses, combining the best colors for your skin tone to supply you with an ideal tint. Vetri’s other specialty: creating a sultry smoky eye to go with your perfect pout. Neiman Marcus, Mazza Gallerie, 202-966-9700
Rita Tadros
At Toka’s Penn Quarter and Cameron Station locations, Tadros is an airbrush and bridal makeup connoisseur. She will make you look flawless, whether you are in need of a day look or one for a night on the town. Toka Salon & Day Spa, 801 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, 202-628- 5133; 4907 Brennan Park Dr., Alexandria, 703-370-5133
Kelly Haywood- Philbert
The Saks Fifth Avenue cosmetician has got her eyes on yours. Visit the Laura Mercier representative after a day of holiday shopping; she will give you a perfect day-to-night look with her signature tight-lined eyes application. Saks Fifth Avenue, Tysons Galleria, 703-761-0700
Carl Ray
A renowned makeup artist in the District, this self-taught marvel uses his talented application techniques to beautify Washington’s savviest women— including First Lady Michelle Obama, who relies on Ray for most of her public outings and events. Ray is stationed at George Salon at the Four Seasons Hotel. 2828 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, 202-342-1942
Victoria Stiles
A certifiable artiste, Stiles offers hair and makeup services for your special day or a special soirée. Aside from event work, Stiles can assist with makeup wardrobe organization and also give lessons on how to turn a basic look into evening glam. Leiper Stiles Studio, 22960 Shaw Road, Ste. 600, Sterling, VA, 571-265-7138
Erica Wilson
Touting more than a decade of experience in the fashion and beauty industries, Wilson possesses extensive knowledge of the craft and has even developed the perfect product for your purse: A line of lip products infused with mint, the Pout lip collection (from her makeup line, Erica Wilson MakeUp Studios) comes in miniature to fit easily into your evening clutch. 202-569-1633
Kari Slansky
Violet Salon’s in-house makeup artist believes in starting with a clean canvas and beautifully shaped brows. Slansky can also help you revamp your cosmetic closet and update your products with the latest necessities, including a few items from her new makeup line, Kari Ellen Cosmetics. Violet Hair & Skin Care, 1513 Wisconsin Ave. NW, 202-337- 3477
Erwin Gomez
The beloved Gomez has made quite the comeback since his professional hiatus from the salon sector. The eyebrow specialist will get your arches into shape for the holiday season, and looking forward, there is talk of a new venture, Karma by Erwin Gomez, popping up in the spring. 240-305-6116
Sumintra Heeralal
An on-site artist specializing in bridal and Indian bridal makeup, Heeralal has unsurprisingly worked on some of the city’s biggest events. Reserve her for major events and galas; she will ensure that your makeup lasts all evening long. 202-905-5050
Kimberly Steele
Steele specializes in airbrush makeup for savvy Washingtonians who want to look red-carpet ready for their most memorable occasions. Steele is also a top bridal vendor for those ready to tie the knot. 703-597-9955
