From Brisbane to the Runways of Paris: Stoj's High-Fashion Makeup Journey
From Brisbane to Paris: Stoj's Inspiring 22-Year Journey in High-Fashion Makeup
In this episode of The Makeup Insider, we sit down with Stoj—an industry veteran whose 22-year career in makeup artistry is as bold and captivating as the runways she’s graced. From humble beginnings in Brisbane to working alongside legendary artist Pat McGrath in the fashion capitals of New York and Paris, Stoj’s journey is one of relentless passion, fearless ambition, and seizing the right opportunities at the right moment.
Falling in Love with Makeup and Supermodels
Stoj’s love affair with beauty started in Brisbane, where she found herself obsessed with the era of supermodels and intrigued by the transformative power of makeup. Early on, she began working on model tests and formed a key creative partnership with renowned photographer George Antoni. These early collaborations helped her craft a standout portfolio that opened doors in Sydney’s competitive fashion scene.
Big Dreams and a One-Way Ticket to New York
After building her name in Sydney, Stoj took a leap of faith and moved to New York—driven by one clear goal: to work with Pat McGrath. Her determination paid off. After persistently reaching out to Pat’s team and showcasing her work, fate intervened in a magical way. A spontaneous encounter with Pat McGrath herself on a New York street led to an invitation that changed everything.
The Pat McGrath Effect: Thriving in High-Fashion’s Fast Lane
Joining Pat McGrath’s team in Paris was a game-changer for Stoj. Immersed in the intensity of 32 shows per season, she quickly learned to navigate the high-pressure environment of fashion week. From applying body makeup backstage to being trusted with some of the industry’s top models, Stoj’s growth was both rapid and hard-earned. It was during this time that she discovered not only the technical finesse required for high fashion but also the unbreakable camaraderie among top-tier artists.
Career Strategy and the Power of Saying Yes
The episode also unpacks Stoj’s strategic career moves—including the meticulous planning involved in securing a U.S. visa. For many aspiring international artists, her experience is a blueprint in balancing creativity with logistical preparation.
Building a Legacy Beyond the Brush
Stoj’s success goes beyond runway makeup. Over the years, she has cultivated deep friendships and professional connections that continue to shape her career. These relationships, forged in the fast-paced backstage world, underscore the importance of kindness, collaboration, and having a strong network in a highly competitive industry.
Staying Relevant in an Evolving Industry
As the beauty landscape evolves, so has Stoj. She’s gracefully transitioned from fashion and editorial work to celebrity-focused projects, mirroring broader shifts in the industry where stars dominate magazine covers and digital content. Her adaptability and openness to change offer a crucial lesson: staying current is key to longevity in the creative world.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Artists
Throughout the episode, Stoj shares candid advice for up-and-coming artists. From the value of formal training to the irreplaceable lessons learned on the job, her journey is proof that success requires both education and experience. She champions the importance of showing up, doing the work, and remaining curious at every stage of your career.
Final Thoughts
Stoj’s story is a celebration of grit, glamour, and growth. Whether you're dreaming of working on international runways or simply carving your own path in beauty, her journey serves as a powerful reminder: passion paired with persistence can take you places you never imagined.