IMATS NYC 2011

If you haven't heard, IMATS came to NYC last weekend for the first time, and it was absolutely amazing. Well, actually let's back up a little bit and explain what IMATS is. It's the International Make-Up Artist Trade Show. Many vendors come together to share their products and what not, there's demonstrations, a little make up artist history museum section, and so much more. It's really just a great experience for anyone who truly loves make up. I decided to invite Dhores as a birthday present, and we both headed on over to NYC for the day.

The first floor was full of make up artists and models. The artists were working their magic and the models looked fantastic. There was also that museum deal I was talking about. It was amazing seeing all these things that looked lifelike in shows and movies there in the flesh.(Well, the pseudo-flesh.) The power of make up is astounding, even I underestimate sometimes, but all of my expectations were exceeded upon arrival at IMATS. 

After carousing the first floor for a bit and checking out all they had to show, Dhores and I headed upstairs to see what we had been so excited to see the entire time: the vendors' floor. There were so many companies; it was exciting. In all honesty I purchased more brushes and actual tools than make up, but the make up selection was absolutely insane.

We went to look at every vendor, but I was trying to not be impulsive and get things I didn't come there to purchase. I got some brushes, an OCC lip tar, and a couple other things here and there like lashes and the works. Dhores purchased an Eve Pearl Foundation, brushes, a lip tar, eyeshadow, and a pair of lashes. Her foundation was the deal of the day since Dhores has very dark skin and finding foundation you are a black girl with darker skin is really a bitch. 

Another great thing about IMATS was the sense of community. For the most part all of the women there were sweethearts and very polite. The lines were crazy and outrageous and yet people were still willing to try and help each other. In particular Dhores and I met two women who were so nice to us and even let us snap a picture of them. They were two beautiful natural ladies, and oh my gosh.. their hair! I was so envious. When I asked one of them how long she had been natural she replied, “2 years, but I used to be like you.” It was comforting to know that other people went through the same experience I did when I just chopped off all my hair, but I digress.

If you didn't go to IMATS, you missed out, but I wouldn't fret. With the type of reception IMATS received in NYC, I'm certain they'll be coming back for more. When they do come back for more, Dhores and I will be there.

--Marissa