THE LIFE AND TIMES OF A MAKE-UP FIGHTER
By Silvia Granelli
Meeting Dorothy Roffat (even though only virtually) was certainly
an illuminating experience. The French Co-founder and the COO
of Dorothy Roffat Ltd., who has recently moved to London to
extend her namesake company, is very articulate, and spoke with
so much passion she made me want to work with make-up all my life! Her job is not just to handle eye
shadows and lipsticks, but to provide services such as make-up art, hair Art, photography and video for
designers, magazines, editorials and advertising campaigns in the fashion industry. Her introduction
was enough to get my full admiration for her life and work. Let’s unveil the secrets of this brilliant 36
year-old woman.
Hi Dorothy, let’s start from
the very beginning. When
did you first play with
colors?
“I started to play with colors
when I was in college. I was
doing painting just for fun!
I mean, when you are young,
you feel a bit like Van Gogh
and think it's very easy, but
you need some talent.
Attraction
of
colors
concerning me comes from
him and also imagining spring colors while listening to Vivaldi "The four seasons".”
Does your inspiration come from music? Which kind in particular?
“The singer who inspires me for good is Michael Jackson. I am a super big fan of Michael. All his
songs put me in good mood. When I hear one of his songs in a place, I can stay there until the end.
That's the effect Michael Jackson has on me.”
Speaking of celebrities, who’s the client you wish to work with the most?
“My favorite celebrity I have wished to work with is Michael Jackson. Unfortunately, Michael Jackson
is with God now. Another one is Angelina Jolie: I find her so gorgeous, elegant, chic, glamorous, so
simple and natural. But I don't know if it's the same in real life!!!” (Dorothy smiles).
Back to reality, how many years have you been working in this industry?
“I started my career with Givenchy and Kenzo as brand ambassadress for travel retail section in France
15 years ago. This is how I got into cosmetics and fashion. My last position as full time make-up artist