Art can be created in many ways, and one of the most fun and versatile methods is makeup. Through everyday looks or styles used on special occasions, Carolina Gonzalez has been finding inspiration to express all kinds of emotions and attitudes. It's a passion that she's turned into her professional calling card.
Carolina lives in New York City, but her work as a makeup artist has taken her all over the world. Within her brushes and makeup kits lie the secrets behind the looks of artists like Sabrina Carpenter, Gigi Hadid, Lily Aldridge, Alessandra Ambrosio, Camila Mendes, Blake Lively, and Lenny Kravitz.
During her formative years, Carolina was heavily influenced by her love of music, especially with bands like the Sex Pistols and The Clash, which stirred a punk aesthetic craze of the '70s and '80s. Carolina embraced the style to the fullest extent, even styling her hair in a mohawk. “I painted spiderweb designs on my face and later tried the skinhead look with bangs and a shaved head,” she said in an interview with Service 95.
She began her career working in the Carolina Herrera salon, where she had her professional interactions within the world of fashion. After some time working there, she collaborated with Francisco Valera, where she served as an assistant in both makeup and hairstyling. This role became her training ground for her future.
"Live in a state of gratitude and always treat others the way you’d want to be treated."
Through Carolina's eyes, every face represents a blank canvas where she can create art that's tailored to the moment and the environment that person will be entering. In the case of Sabrina Carpenter or any other singer that she's worked with, Carolina draws inspiration from the wardrobe and hairstyle that have been carefully composed alongside the styling team.
Inspiration can strike anywhere; some of Carolina's ideas are born in the basement of her home, where she's built her studio, equipped with 12 closets full of makeup products and tools.
Carolina's looks have been recreated by thousands of girls around the world who follow or create tutorials based on her work. Her fame is also recognized through her contributions to numerous editorials and collaborations with major brands like Adidas, Moroccan Oil, Victoria’s Secret, Cesare Paciotti, Converse, and Omega. This year, she launched a partnership with the beauty brand Velour, releasing a set of eyelash extensions.
"My advice is simple: stay focused, stay persistent, and don’t let anyone’s noise drown out your vision. Own your journey, embrace the fun, and fall in love with your craft. Each time you step up to the plate, bring your absolute best because you are only as good as your last gig."
Carolina is a reflection of how hard work and professional passion can lead to a kind of success that’s truly fulfilling.
On a personal level, Gonzalez has two children. In interviews, she's shared that her kids have autism and have taught her many valuable lessons, including how to slow down while also teaching her how to appreciate the beauty in simplicity. It's a lesson that she applies regularly with her clients, making a world of difference.