1. Dana, what inspired you to create the Dana Lekus Beauty Team?
Creating the Dana Lekus Beauty Team was a natural extension of my mission in the beauty industry — to build a community where professionalism, creativity, and human values coexist. After many years working backstage at major international fashion events, I saw the need for a team culture built on respect, responsibility, and unity.
I wanted to bring together artists who don’t just perform tasks but elevate each other, support each other, and deliver the level of excellence expected at high-profile shows.
Today, my team collaborates with the most prominent fashion weeks and large-scale productions across the United States, consistently demonstrating discipline, precision, and a unique blend of artistry and kindness.
2. How would you describe your journey in the beauty industry?
My journey in the beauty industry spans over 10 years and reflects a combination of artistry, leadership, and a strong scientific foundation.
Throughout this decade, I have evolved into an internationally recognized beauty expert trusted by major fashion platforms and global creative teams.
I have participated in New York Fashion Week, taken part in Miami Swim Week with Art Hearts Fashion, as Lead Makeup Artist for two seasons of Florida Men’s Fashion Week, as Beauty Director at Orlando International Fashion Week, and led makeup and hair direction at Beverly Hills Fashion Week.
My expertise has been recognized worldwide:
- THE GLOBAL ARTIST OF THE YEAR FINALIST 2025 — Aesthetics / Stage Makeup OMC HairWorld
- New York Fashion Award, 2025 — Best Female International Makeup Artist
- Winner of the International Beauty Awards XXIV (IBA) — “Icon of the Beauty Industry.”
- Miami Talents Awards 2025 — Dana Lekus Beauty Team of the Year (Art Basel Finale)
I am also the co-author of two books: “Behind the Scenes of Beauty: From Artist to Brand” and “Sellers of Happiness”. This journey has strengthened my belief that beauty is both an art and a science — and true mastery arises where these two worlds meet.
3. What makes your team unique in the fashion and beauty world?
What makes my team unique is our ability to contribute to high-profile fashion productions while maintaining a calm, positive, and highly coordinated backstage atmosphere. Our group demonstrates exceptional precision and consistency even under demanding conditions, often preparing 40–60 models within limited timeframes.
Our approach is built on values, integrity, and a passion for the creative process.
4. What do you look for when selecting team members?
When inviting artists to join my creative team for major productions, I look for three essential qualities:
- Technical skill — a strong foundation and the ability to deliver clean, fashion-forward results.
- Mindset — kindness, emotional maturity, and the ability to remain calm, respectful, and adaptable in fast paced backstage environments.
- Responsibility — punctuality, respect for the production, and a genuine desire to contribute to the overall success of the show.
To me, attitude is just as important as artistry.
5. What has been your most rewarding experience this year?
The most valuable experience this year has been my growth as a leader in the beauty industry. Participating in major fashion productions across the United States allowed me to strengthen my ability to guide creative teams, make fast strategic decisions, and maintain a positive and structured backstage environment.
Another important milestone has been the growing interest from media outlets. This year reinforced my understanding that leadership in beauty is not limited to artistic direction — it also requires emotional intelligence, responsibility, and the ability to shape the creative environment around you.
6. How would you describe your signature makeup and beauty style?
My signature style blends modern luxury with editorial precision. I focus on radiant, healthy-looking skin, harmonious sculpting, expressive eyes, and balanced tones that photograph beautifully under runway lighting.
My background in cosmetic science helps me select textures, pigments, and techniques that ensure long lasting, camera-ready results.
7. What inspires the looks you create for runway shows and big events?
I draw inspiration from a wide range of sources: fashion history and iconic eras, cultural storytelling, textures, color theory, architecture, and emotional narratives within each designer’s collection.
My goal is to create looks that not only highlight the models but also elevate the entire visual impact of the show.
