Podcast Summary: "Glad We Had This Chat Takes New York: Katie Jane Hughes"

Introduction

In Season 2, Episode 22 of Glad We Had This Chat, hosted by Caroline Hirons, the podcast takes a vibrant detour to New York City to engage with the talented celebrity makeup artist, Katie Jane Hughes. This episode, released on January 22, 2025, delves deep into Katie's illustrious career, her journey from Liverpool to New York, and her insights into beauty and skincare.

Guest Introduction: Katie Jane Hughes

Katie Jane Hughes is celebrated for her exceptional makeup artistry, having worked with high-profile clients like Dua Lipa, Ashley Graham, and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. As the founder of the KJH brand, Katie has carved a niche for herself in the beauty industry, blending her Scouse roots with her creative prowess to deliver stunning looks.

Career Journey: From Space NK to Glastonbury

Katie reminisces about her early days working on the shop floor at Space NK on Westbourne Grove, where she first crossed paths with Caroline Hirons around 2000-2010. Reflecting on her transition, Katie shares:

"I moved to New York in 2013 with a contract from Butter London, transitioning from doing nails to full-fledged makeup artistry." [03:53]

Her break came post-2016 after her contract ended, allowing her to authentically showcase her work on Instagram. This pivotal change led to collaborations with brands like Glossier, where Katie played a significant role in the conception of their Play line.

Collaborations with Celebrities

Katie's relationship with Rosie Huntington-Whiteley stands out as a testament to her skill and professionalism. She fondly recalls:

"Rosie slid into my DMs asking to collaborate, which was a game-changer. Working with her on Rose Inc. was surreal." [05:43]

Her collaborations don't end there; Katie also highlights her work with Ashley Graham and other A-list celebrities, emphasizing the blend of artistry and personal connection in her projects.

Personal Life: Moving to New York and Family Ties

Katie shares personal anecdotes about her move to New York at 23, driven by a desire to explore and establish herself independently. Meeting her husband, Tariq, an American-Egyptian with a passion for football and Liverpool FC, further enriched her journey. Their 16-year relationship is filled with memorable moments, including navigating family dynamics and enjoying life in their New Jersey home.

Skincare Secrets: Minimalist Yet Effective Routines

A significant portion of the conversation revolves around skincare routines. Katie appreciates simple yet effective methods, often emphasizing hydration over complex regimens. She praises Caroline's cleansing gel:

"I've almost finished your gel cleanser. It's one of the most amazing cleansers I've ever used." [18:49]

Katie advocates for balancing skincare with makeup needs, suggesting:

"For foundation longevity, focus on skincare rather than relying solely on primers." [23:13]

Her favorite skincare products include the Bodhi Butter from her Rhode brand, Ren Ready Steady Glow Toner, and NARS Soft Matte Complete Concealer, which she considers essential for both personal and professional kits.

Makeup Techniques: Precision and Personal Preference

Katie discusses her makeup philosophy, highlighting the importance of treating each facial area as distinct zones for optimal application. She prefers using small, precise brushes and minimal products to achieve a flawless look without heaviness. Her go-to makeup products include:

• Lipstick: Stila Bossa Liquid Matte and NARS Power Matte
• Eyebrow Pencil: Glossier Boy Brow Arch in Cool Brown
• Mascara: Tower 28 Make Waves Mascara and Chanel Le Volume

Notably, Katie shares a unique tip for foundation application:

"When trying a new foundation, apply it on a bare face without any skincare or primers to identify where adjustments are needed." [22:52]

Quick Fire Round

In a light-hearted segment, Caroline and Katie engage in a rapid-fire Q&A, touching upon personal preferences and quirky habits. Highlights include:

• Favorite Store: Sephora over Ulta
• Bold Choice: Bold lips over bold eyes
• Preference: Lipstick over lip gloss or pencils
• Shopping Style: Prefers shopping in-store
• Pets: Cats over dogs for their independence and humor
• Travel Preference: City breaks for exploration and culinary delights
• Favorite Burger in New York: Jeans Lafayette's renowned burger
• Nando’s Order: Half chicken with French fries and coleslaw in lemon herb

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with heartfelt thanks and best wishes as Katie navigates her fertility journey. The camaraderie between Caroline and Katie shines through, leaving listeners with valuable insights into the beauty industry and a glimpse into Katie's vibrant personal life.

Notable Quotes:

• Katie on Authenticity post-Instagram Break:

  "Instagram was like, there, ready and waiting for me because I just was this unleashed tiger." [04:43]

• Katie on Beauty Beginnings:

  "My mum always had red lipstick and bronzer; it was always glam." [11:31]

• Katie on Skincare Over Load:

  "If I don't do it, I think if you get to 55 and you don't know how to do your hair and makeup, there's something wrong." [13:17]

• Katie on Makeup Application:

  "Treat each area of the face like its own little zone." [50:04]

This episode not only celebrates Katie Jane Hughes' journey and expertise but also offers listeners a blend of professional advice and personal storytelling, making it a must-listen for beauty enthusiasts.