Meet Layton Edwards | Make up Artist and Create Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Layton Edwards and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Layton, what are you inspired by?
Old film from the 40’s and 50’s because I love the fashion, the shapes, and the camp that the actors had. I’m also very inspired by runway shows, past and present because everything is cyclical and it’s always a great way to see how to change up a look that you feel you’ve seen before.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I actually went to school for Culinary Arts in Hyde Park NY, and had such a passion for cooking I never saw myself doing anything else. After coming home I found a new group of queer friends here in Dallas that introduced me to all things makeup and expression. From there an even bigger dream and passion blossomed. I started out by having friends and family model for me then moved on to creating my own content. The struggle was real! Working and making like no money and coming home to pull a look together just so I could keep up my Instagram presence. Often pulling my younger brother or boyfriend in to take the photos because I couldn’t get the angle right. Through all the struggles, it really inspired me to be able to pull different elements together to tell a story with my art. I began reaching out to different photographers, stylists, and models to collaborate to build my portfolio and gain connections. Since I’ve been published many times and have had some amazing opportunities. If there’s one thing that I wish I knew early on is, do you!! Not every look is going to be viral or everyone’s cup of tea but if you’re proud of it and you put in the work there’s going to be people out there to appreciate it. So continue to create on your terms.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Favorite spots in the city would have to be Gloria’s for the frozen margaritas. Street’s fine chicken for some good ole home style food. Wok Star has the best Chinese food here in Dallas! Then at some point we’d have to hit the gay bars on cedar springs for some great drag shows!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Shout out to the Dallas creative community. It’s truly a great community to be involved in, I’ve made some amazing relationships from collaborating with some talented individuals.

Instagram: @Looksbylayton

Image Credits
@johnniesommer @agnieszkam_photography