With a graduate degree in Accounting from the University of Bahrain, Buthaina AlShomili decided to pursue a career in the banking sector. But it didn’t take much time for her to give up the job and finally build the right foundation for her passion towards the art of doing makeup.
Buthaina AlShomili is a renowned makeup specialist of Bahrain, known for her Midas touch as artist and trainer. Having professionally trained under famous makeup artists like Talal Morcos and Etienne Ortega, Buthaina is one of the most sought after artists in the Kingdom when it comes to bring out the beauty of cover girls, show stoppers and TV artists. Taking some time out from her busy schedule, this mother of two beautiful girls sat down with BTW, sharing with us her experience of working on faces that tell a million stories.
When did you know a career in beauty was for you?
When I was little, I loved to watch my mother putting her make-up on. I was fascinated by the way she did it. When I grew up I started doing makeup for close family and friends. I was really lucky to have everyone encouraging me to take it up as a profession. The passion that I had in me since long soon took wings and I am here! Also, thanks to the social media that helped me give the world an idea of my talent.
Do you like creating really out-there looks, or do you prefer something classically beautiful?
I always prefer the simple, natural and classical makeup that adds glamour to your face without changing the facial features. The simpler the makeup, the easier it is for it to become acceptable and it’s been the same for centuries.
When you decide to approach a face, what things do you take into consideration before you even lift a brush?
The most important thing is to know the personality of the ladies for whom I will be doing the makeup. I try to have a quick chat with them before starting as well as while I am working on them. It helps me discover what type they are and how they want to look in the end. With my experience over all these years, it then becomes easy for me to choose the kind of makeup that would suit them. And of course, the dress and the hair are equally important to give a complete look in the end. Importantly, we can’t ignore the age of a person. I always make sure of the age of the person to give them the right look they can carry off elegantly.
What do you think of the beauty industry today as you see it on social media?
The world seems to have come to a single point with the advent of social media. It has made things easier and fast paced and keeps the competition tough. There are so many different upcoming makeup artists in Bahrain and they are all doing a good job worth the appreciation. Many of my students are among the most sought after makeup artists in the Kingdom which makes me really glad about what I am doing. What stands out is that special extra touch that is unique to each one of them which gives the clients a better range of options to choose from.
What kind of work do you find you get booked for the most?
I get booked the most for bridal makeup and for other special occasions. Then there are special photo shoots where professional makeup is required. I am also called in for taking classes for doing makeup inside Bahrain and other places in GCC.
Today’s woman is busier than ever. What is the easiest/quickest way to turn a day/work look into something that works for a night out?
You are right and I get this question frequently from many of my clients. I would suggest adding extra eye lashes and choosing a darker shade for lipstick along with a strong tone of blusher. I think it would be the most beautiful and easiest way to turn your day look around to suit a night out.
What three makeup item should no woman leave home without?
No doubt; compact powder, lipstick and bronzer!