Makeup Artist and Fashion Stylist Ania Basak

Ania Basak is a European Makeup Artist and Fashion Stylist and the founder of Fashion Calgary. She received her training at Maestro Academy in Poland, held by the International Champion of Makeup&Style Olaf Tabaczynski.

Fashion Calgary is a Canadian company that combines the social and cultural needs of, residents and tourists by providing them with a wide range of exciting offerings from Calgary’s top four social entertainment areas, and leading cosmopolitan businesses in Fashion, Beauty, Art & Design, and Cuisine.

When did you decide to become a make-up artist?

Make-up has always been my passion; it probably started at the age of 16. I was always doing my friends’ make-up and eventually got asked to do make-up for other people at their birthdays or events.

After I finished my MBA in law I knew that while the law was part of my path, I also wanted to learn more about fashion and beauty, so I decided to attend a make-up and image school back in Europe. When I graduated and moved to Canada, I decided to proceed with my make-up career.

Is there anyone who inspired you throughout your career?

I don’t have a list of people or names to mention. Life is such a beautiful journey and I meet new people every day. People with passion are the ones that inspire me every day.

How long have you been a makeup artist and how did you get started in the industry?

It will be 15 years this year. My husband does wedding photography and when I first moved to Canada, I started to do makeup at those weddings, TV and private functions. I also donated a lot of my services to silent auctions throughout the city and eventually, word of mouth got me to where I am today.

How would you describe your signature look and what is it about your style that sets you apart from other makeup artists?

I don’t have a signature look. I think my signature approach is enhancing beauty, not changing it. Many makeup artists have an approach that doesn’t make people feel like themselves. I am rather trying to have a natural look, using lightweight products that are not harsh on the skin. That way, I am enhancing the beautiful features of my clients and they feel comfortable.

What is your favorite make up product?

Definitely foundation and primer. I barely leave home without it.

What does beauty mean to you?

It is such a big word. I think beauty is what we have inside of us, who we are and how we like to express it. It is a mixture of our inner beauty and our visual side.

What are the must-haves in every woman’s makeup bag?

Eye-make up remover, cleanser, toner, and moisturizer. This is the first thing I always say to my clients. Great skin is a foundation for great makeup. I can only have one makeup item on me, but I definitely need a whole range of skincare items. Always remove your make-up!

Other items would be primer, foundation, and highlighter. YSL Touché Éclat is one of the best highlighters that every woman should have. After having a baby, this is a great product for me, as I have a lot of sleepless nights. Finally, mascara, lip-gloss, and bronzer are also great must-have.

Where do you get your inspiration?

I get it from people and their work when it comes to make-up. By checking and seeing images of faces every day, you capture details that are captivating to you and you incorporate that into your work on a constant basis.

If you want to know more about Ania Basak, please visit: Ania Basak