Stylecurated: THE MAKEUP SHOW NYC 2016

Portrait by Linda Mason at The Makeup Show NYC Icon Gallery

Makeup is more than vanity--it's hard work! And so maintains the message from The Makeup Show's Director of Artistry, James Vincent. Returning to NYC for an 11th year, show staples NARS cosmetics, Make Up Forever, Kat Von D, Sephora and Ricky's join a slate of carefully curated indie beauty brands to offer professionals a wide range of products across price points and expertise. New this year, the 5th floor Icons Gallery pays tribute to the endearing contributions of Dany Sanz, founder of The Makeup Show and beauty brand Makeup Forever, and artist Linda Mason. Keep reading to see my show picks...

Bennett Jason (Inglot) presenting Beyond the Trend: Subjective Makeup

The Spring 2016 gathering at NYC's Metropolitan Pavillon is the largest to date, featuring workshops, seminars and opportunities for networking across all genres of makeup (including Fantasy, Bridal, etc.). Saturday night's press preview emphasizes a commitment to education and highlights products to watch this season. This year's feature presentations include tips for success, along with a controversial session entitled "The Skin That I'm In -- Diversity in Artistry and Application" led by Lori Taylor, Nick Lujan, Erik Soto, Melanie Mills and James Vincent (May 2, 12-1PM). The Makeup Show NYC runs Sunday, May 1st to Monday, May 2nd and is open to industry professionals and press.

Jayne Chen (R), founder of Lashes in a Box

International cover model and crossfit enthusiast Jayne Chen makes her mark on the maquillage industry with Lashes in a Box. Founded in 2012, the San Francisco based brand supplies high quality, wearable lashes for the MUA (MakeUp Artist) on the go. At $25 a box, each serving comprises 20 pairs of versatile lashes--reusable up to 3 wears. The luxe lashes are made in the USA, cruelty free and embody criss-cross layering, which contours to different eye shapes and sizes.

All black eyelashes; made for the MUA on the go (20 pairs in a box)

Alexis Irene, founder of Static Nails; the world's first reusable manicure

Of the extensive assortment at The Makeup Show NYC, Static Nails is one of the more intriguing offerings, as the world's first 3D printed reusable manicure. The official manicurist of New York Fashion Week, Static Nails are cruelty free, customizable and reusable up to 6 times (and up to 18 days straight). Founder Alexis Irene hatched the idea in a college dorm and has since grown her business into an international sensation. At $14-$38 a set, Static Nails' reusable Swarovski manicures are more affordable than a one-time salon treatment.

Static Nails up close--Not so shabby!

Hakuhodo (Made in Japan)

Handmade in Japan, Hakuhodo offers quality brushes made from silk and other premium materials. Located in a region that produces 80% of Japan's brushes, Hakuhodo is an industry leader, producing 500,000 brushes each month. At the show, MUAs can feel the difference and welcome this trusted brand into their pro kits.

High quality and handcraf

Vegan lip products by Lip Bar

Vegan products are picking up popularity, given the age of countless choices. Under the premise of "Guilt-Free Good Looks," the ladies of the Lip Bar present bold pigments in seasonal offerings--for women of all shades and sizes. Lip Bar's matte, gloss and liquid liners are made in the USA--from all-natural ingredients (e.g. avocado oil, shea butter, etc.)--and come packaged in chic lightweight cases.