Pat McGrath Is First Makeup Artist To Receive Damehood

Legendary makeup artist and beauty entrepreneur Pat McGrath has made history yet again. The woman who has turned the art of beauty into an entire experience — complete with regal packaging, shiny glitter and dreamy makeup looks — is now the first-ever makeup artist to be named a Dame by Queen Elizabeth II. (It’s pretty much the equivalent of knighthood for women).

The “Mother of Makeup” and founder of her self-titled Pat McGrath Labs beauty brand has gained renown for her iconic looks that have graced the covers of Vogue and haute couture runways for the likes of Alexander McQueen, Givenchy, Pradia, Marc Jacobs, Dior, and more.

“I am beyond humbled that I have been awarded a Damehood in the Queen’s New Year 2021 Honours List as a D.B.E – Dame of the British Empire for Services to the Fashion and Beauty Industry and Diversity,” she wrote in an Instagram post.

The new title comes as an upgrade to her previously being named Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 2014. In addition to running her own billion-dollar beauty brand, she serves as British Vogue’s Beauty Editor-At-Large and is the first makeup artist to ever receive the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) Founder’s Award.

“When I first launched my brand, Pat McGrath Labs, it was designed to inspire self-expression and individuality,” she added. “I dedicate this honour in tribute to makeup artists everywhere, I adore each and every one of you. Never give up on your dreams – with hard work, creativity, and perseverance anything is possible.”