A Letter to Pat McGrath and Her Legendary Career

This message is for Pat McGrath, also known as Patricia Ann McGrath.

Patricia Ann McGrath,

First of your name (and talent, if we’re being honest), revolutionary makeup artist, one of one. You continue to raise the bar, but our question is: how? In 2024, when people go viral every day, you managed to stop the world with your makeup design for the Maison Margiela haute couture spring/summer 2024 show. It’s hard to recall a recent time when makeup artists, brand founders, and enthusiasts alike were all so excited to get the breakdown of a runway makeup look, but of course, you were behind the commotion that broke the internet.

When we study the greatest makeup artists of all time, there’s no doubt that your name will come up in conversation. Your ability to remain agile in this fast-moving industry while simultaneously carving out a signature style is impressive to say the least, but when we take a look back on some of your greatest influences, it’s not hard to see why. Your mother, Jean McGrath was the one who taught you to use cocoa powder to find your perfect foundation shade, to be creative with your cosmetic formulas, and to pay attention to the little details. This rearing paid off, leading to you creating looks like the crystal lips for Dior’s spring 2013 couture show, feathered brows for Alexander McQueen’s fall 2014 show, and even Doja Cat’s 30,000 crystal makeup look for 2023 Paris Couture Week. In short, no one has, or likely will ever, do what you do and we will protect you and your legacy like the global treasures that you are.

When people were just discovering who you were on TikTok post-Margiela mic drop, numerous videos made it a point to explain to the masses just how far your influence reaches. “Pat McGrath: The Original Motha,” one video’s caption read. “What an incredible woman,” said another. From the breakdowns of your decades-long career to the fact that you’re the only makeup artist to have ever achieved Damehood, the reminders were swift and constant. Just like that, the legacy of Pat Mcgrath was preserved for the next generation.

On behalf of, well, everyone, we are extending a heartfelt thank you. The way that the name Pat McGrath continues to be synonymous with excellence and creativity is a reminder to the world that makeup is as valid of an art form as any other. Your commitment to your craft is proof that when you stay the course, the world has no choice but to watch you shine.

Yours truly,
Literally Everyone

Ariel Baker is the assistant editor for POPSUGAR Beauty. Her areas of expertise include celebrity news, beauty trends, and product reviews. She has additional bylines with Essence and Forbes Vetted.