Recognizing the icons in the Beauty industry and the under-sung heroes who mentored and inspired me in my career. From Naomi Sims (above photo) to Irma Denson, these people guided me.
Irma Denson was a model, featured in “Ebony” and “Jet” magazines, born in Trinidad. She went to Paris and became certified as an esthetician and reflexologist, returned to New York and in 1977 opened a spa on East 55 Street. Her spa being located in midtown Manhattan may have been the first or one of the first to specialize in the skin concerns of African-American women. From facials (which she sometimes did herself!) to aromatherapy to hot stone massage, Irma Denson’s spa was a luxurious experience. She took me under her wing. I was fresh out of Texas Southern University and learned so much from her every day. Then I reviewed her spa for Black Elegance Magazine!
Icons and major players in the beauty industry some who are under-sung: I had traveled Africa for Polished Ambers and Revlon, modeled in Paris for Christian Dior, Azzedine Alaia, Patrick Kelly, etc; done beauty consulting and was Beauty Editor for Harris Publications when I dropped everything to work with Naomi Sims. I traveled extensively, introducing Naomi Sims’ brand new products in person, on tv and radios stations. I trained other representatives all over the US, Canada and the Caribbean.
What words of admirations about Iman haven’t been expressed? I’ll just quote from the review I wrote for Celebrity Styles Magazine: “It’s about *&%#$ time to see women of color with COLOR! Iman [cosmetics] hit my target!”
I’m thinking of Roxanna Floyd, makeup artist to the stars. Juin Rachele Cooper’s makeup line (right) focused on all skin hues. Arlene Hawkins (left) used to slay the eyebrows and lashes for all the models, including Naomi Campbell. “Essence” Magazine editor Susan Taylor was a client. Arlene’s place was across the street from the famous Lord & Taylor store.
These books by experts in the beauty industry: I pored through these beauty reference books, absorbed all the advice, followed all the instructions, got the ingredients, then did it myself. Iman, Beverly Johnson, Tyra Banks, Jean E. Patton, Barbara Walden, LaVerne Powlis, Arlene Mathis, Debra Reece, Thomas Hayden and James Williams, Alfred Fornay, my friend Sam Fine. When I met Naomi Sims and started working with her, I asked her to sign her book which I had read, and had re-read, and had re-re-read while in college.
These former models, makeup artists, fierce cosmetics entrepreneurs were popular, their names on everyone’s lips. All these influences enhanced my knowledge, strengthened my skills, gave me confidence, and contributed to who I am today.
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