Celebrity makeup artist Mila Markeeva transforms Katrina Romaneca for striking photoshoot

Dive into the world of makeup with Mila Markeeva, where every stroke of a brush tells a story of creativity, passion, and artful expression.

Model: Katrina Romaneca. Photographer: Marie Barsch. Celebrity makeup artist: Mila Markeeva.

Harper’s Bazaar VN: Can you introduce yourself and tell us about your background and profession?

MILA MARKEEVA: I am a makeup artist based in Los Angeles. My love for art and makeup started from my childhood. My mother was a hairstylist, so I was always surrounded by fashion and beauty. After completing art school at the age of 14, I enrolled in a professional makeup course. Even then, I understood that my passion for art could be expressed through my career as a makeup artist.

Makeup artist Mila Markeeva transforms Katrina Romaneca 1

Dress, Maison Alaia. Shoes, Gianvito Rossi. Earrings, Tiffany & Co. Ring, Cartier.

Four years later, I launched my own makeup school to teach creative individuals like myself, aiming to share my experience and vision. I take pride in having over 300 new specialists complete my course, and I am genuinely delighted by their achievements.

Dress, Maison Alaia. Shoes, Gianvito Rossi. Earrings, Tiffany & Co. Ring, Cartier.

HBZ: Can you describe what you love so much about your profession?

MILA MARKEEVA: I’m very grateful to my profession for the opportunity to meet interesting creative individuals along my journey and to work on significant projects like Harper’s Bazaar covers. My connections with clients and colleagues have always been built on love to the art and the joy of creating something entirely new together.

Makeup artist Mila Markeeva transforms Katrina Romaneca 2

Waistcoat and trousers, Etro. Shoes, Fenty by Rihanna. Glasses and ring, Cartier.

HBZ: Could you describe the creative process behind this photoshoot for Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam?

MILA MARKEEVA: The photoshoot for Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam took place in a house with a stunning view of Los Angeles. The location itself inspired me to create unique looks. My team was incredible: professionals who shared my passion for creativity. We worked in sync to ensure each look appeared flawless. Interacting with photographers, stylists, and models contributed to the overall success of the project. Within this project, I created various looks that highlighted the individual features of the model. From bold and vibrant shapes to soft and natural shades, I aimed to convey emotions and the project’s concept through each makeup application.

Waistcoat and trousers, Etro. Shoes, Fenty by Rihanna. Glasses and ring, Cartier.

For girls with a similar profile to Katrina Romaneca, I would recommend focusing on the eyes. A cat-eye eyeliner would add expressiveness to this type of appearance.

Outfits and jewelry, Bottega Veneta.

HBZ: Could you elaborate on the changing trends you’ve noticed in the makeup industry?

MILA MARKEEVA: Fashion is always a reflection of modern reality; it mirrors society’s mood in the world. Currently, I see the industry shifting from perfect glam toward more creative styles. But remember, makeup is an art, and you can always choose trends that match your style and preferences. I would also say there are currently two main trends: health and eco-friendliness, as well as expressing individuality through makeup. Overall, society has shifted its focus from external to internal, leading clients to be more mindful of product ingredients and choose clean brands like Ilia, Merit, Rose Inc.

Outfits and jewelry, Bottega Veneta.

HBZ: How has social media, especially platforms like Instagram, influenced your profession as a makeup artist?

MILA MARKEEVA: On my Instagram account @milamarkeeva, I often share must-have products of the season and behind-the-scenes glimpses of interesting projects. Blogging is an integral part of our profession, probably the most demanding as it consumes a significant amount of time. However, I’m thrilled to inspire my audience with my work and share the secrets of my industry.

Dress, Maison Alaia. Shoes, Gianvito Rossi. Earrings, Tiffany & Co. Ring, Cartier.

Photographer: Marie Barsch @marieb.photography.
Model: Katrina Romaneca @katrina.la.
Creative director & stylist: Sofia Popkova @iamsofiapopkova.
Celebrity Makeup Artist & Founder of the “Makeup school by Mila Markeeva”: Mila Markeeva @milamarkeeva.
Hair stylist: Olya Romanenko @o.r.hair.
Manicurist: Nail Sunny @nail_sunny @nail_sunnyla.
Master brow stylist: Anthony Andrews @anthonyandrewsbhbrows.
PR: Mariia Borovenska @mariborovenskaya.

Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam