Grazia Beauty panellist and brand founder Lisa Eldridge last week received an MBE for her considerable achievements in the beauty industry. The award, presented by Prince William, recognises and celebrates those whose contributions have had a long-term, significant impact within the UK. Consider those boxes well and truly ticked.
‘I am deeply humbled to accept this MBE for my lifelong passion for the art of make-up, its history, and on behalf of an industry I truly love,’ said Eldridge, speaking exclusively to Grazia. ‘My desire to paint faces and study the history of makeup has never faltered, and over the years, it has meant everything to me to be able to pass my expertise and knowledge on to my community, as well as many young, up-and-coming artists.’
‘For me, make-up has always been more than mere glittering surfaces. It’s a reflection of our creativity, our humanity, and our stories and a signifier of social, political and cultural shifts. Those who look down on what they perceive as the frivolity of cosmetics should recognise that it’s inextricably linked to identity, expression, human creativity and the way we navigate the world, whether as a symbol of rebellion, empowerment, or a reflection of cultural changes, beauty has always been more than skin deep. Make-up is an everyday creative outlet that is capable of boosting confidence and boosting the economy… what’s not to love?’
Eldridge is known for her work with A-Listers (loyal clients include Dua Lipa, Kate Winslet, Keira Knightley and Nicole Kidman), she’s the founder of her eponymous beauty line (we’re told Eldridge spoke to Prince William about 'at length' about this upon receiving her award). Eldridge has ` YouTube channel that's followed by over 2 million viewers and she's a New York Times bestselling author - her must-read book, Face Paint: The Story Of Make-Up, chronicled the history of make-up and paved the way for a BBC Two documentary that you can still catch on iPlayer - 'Make-up: A Glamorous History'. And we're proud to say she is a Grazia Beauty Panellist too. Need we go on?
Despite such impressive - and extensive - credentials, Eldridge has always remained admirably down to earth. She is also the first professional makeup artist on Youtube to donate all of her advertising revenue to charity.
'I’m incredibly proud of the funds I’ve raised via my YouTube channel, and I look forward to continuing to use the platform to give back in any way I can.'
Needless to say that we couldn’t be prouder to have the inimitable Lisa Eldridge MBE on our Grazia beauty panel.
Rachael Martin is Grazia’s Beauty Editor. Originally from Northern Ireland, she studied English Literature at Queen’s University Belfast, before moving to London to pursue a career in magazine journalism.
