From Show Jumping to Chanel: The Transformative Journey of Makeup Artist Victoria Baron.
In the ever-evolving world of beauty, few artists have carved a path as dynamic and inspiring as Victoria Baron. From her unconventional beginnings in show jumping to becoming Chanel’s longtime beauty ambassador, Victoria’s journey is a testament to curiosity, resilience, and the art of staying true to your creative voice. This is more than a story about makeup—it’s a masterclass in reinvention.
An Unexpected Start: From Saddles to Set Lights
Before brushes and beauty took center stage, Victoria Baron’s world revolved around saddles and show rings. As a competitive show jumper in the UK, her life was far from the glamour of fashion weeks and celebrity shoots. But a return to Sydney sparked a creative awakening—first through work in TV commercials, props, and fine art, and then, unexpectedly, through makeup.
It was a friend’s suggestion that nudged her toward enrolling in a makeup course—a decision that would quietly redirect her life. Though she didn’t finish her studies at Cameron Jane Makeup Design, Victoria quickly realized that her natural artistic instincts translated beautifully onto skin. Her early assumptions about the industry—that it was all glitter and gloss—were replaced by a deep respect for the craft and its potential for artistic expression.
Riding the Freelance Roller Coaster
Freelance makeup artistry is far from predictable, and Victoria embraced that reality early on. Her weeks often swing from scheduled bookings to last-minute opportunities—a mix she’s come to love. “I expected more consistency,” she admits, “but I found excitement in the unpredictability.”
She compares the career path to a stair race—always climbing, always moving, with each step offering new experiences. It’s this flexibility and mindset that’s helped her thrive in a competitive and ever-changing industry.
Lessons from the Legends: Assisting and Earning Your Stripes
A defining chapter in Victoria’s journey was her time assisting legendary artists like Rae Morris and Muriel Van Kavan. Those moments were less about celebrity proximity and more about absorbing the essence of professionalism, creative risk-taking, and industry etiquette.
She didn’t just show up—she made herself indispensable. Whether it meant mowing lawns or cleaning cars to stay in proximity to mentors, Victoria’s hustle set her apart. Her story is a reminder that opportunity doesn’t always knock—you sometimes have to build the door yourself.
Fashion Weeks, Fast-Paced Learning, and Global Experience
Victoria’s first steps into the world of fashion weeks were modest—a couple of shows here and there—but her appetite for growth pushed her further. Today, she’s a seasoned backstage pro, thriving in the collaborative, high-pressure environment that pushes artists to think on their feet and trust their instincts.
She speaks fondly of the unfiltered feedback and shared experiences with fellow artists, crediting them as pivotal learning moments in her career.
Faces of Fame: Working with Celebrities
Victoria’s client list includes names like Phoebe Tonkin and Jessica Mauboy, but she approaches celebrity work with grounded humility. “It’s their face—the most personal part of them,” she says, noting how important respect and discretion are in those intimate settings. Her focus remains the same: enhancing natural beauty while letting the person shine through.
The Chanel Chapter: A Creative Partnership
One of the most defining relationships in Victoria’s career has been her decade-long role with Chanel. It began serendipitously—her portfolio was sent to Paris without her even knowing—and has since blossomed into a longstanding partnership.
As Chanel’s beauty ambassador, Victoria has played a pivotal role in launching collections, shaping looks, and representing the brand’s aesthetic to the Australian market. Her ability to translate luxury into relatable beauty has made her an indispensable part of the Chanel family.
Looking Ahead: Innovation, Mentorship, and Creative Legacy
These days, Victoria continues to evolve—consulting on product development, mentoring up-and-coming artists, and exploring new avenues for creative expression. She’s committed to giving back, sharing her wealth of experience with the next generation of artists who, like her, might be searching for their own unconventional path.
Final Thoughts: Passion, Patience, and Persistence
Victoria Baron’s journey is not about luck—it’s about grit, grace, and the courage to follow your curiosity. For aspiring makeup artists, her story is a reminder that there’s no one-size-fits-all route to success. Whether you start in fashion school or on a horse, what matters is your commitment to the craft and your willingness to evolve.