Jihye is a Korean Hair and Make-up Artist and LCF alumna, based in London, who has worked with the likes of Elle UK, Nowness, Hunger Magazine and for London Fashion Week, as well as in bridal. Here she tells us about her experience studying at LCF and what she plans to do next.
What were you doing before you came to LCF?
I went to beauty high school in Seoul, South Korea. There I got the basic knowledge and beauty skills for make-up, hair, nail, and skincare. I enjoyed it a lot. After graduation, I wanted to learn fashion, so I did fashion design and pattern cutting for a year. I believe these paths, combined, gave me overall strength in fashion and beauty.
Why did you choose BA (Hons) Hair and Make-up for Fashion?
I’ve had a passion for drawing since I was very young. But I felt that following the many rules of skilled drawing was suppressing my creativity, so I lost interest in it for a while. I wanted to do art, where I could have freedom of expression. LCF was perfect for me, as somewhere I could build up my career, both in fashion and beauty.
What was the best bit about the course?
I didn’t think cultural study was important at the time. But if I think about it now, it helped me a lot to improve my understanding of fashion.
And what were the challenges?
The curriculum was completely different from what I was used to, so at the beginning it was not easy for me, I had to have discipline. The tutor cared more about my research journey than the actual result. They guided me rather than teaching and allowed me to expand my creativity and stay original.
What are you up to now?
I am a freelancing make-up & hair artist, working in the London fashion industry. Next up, my plan is go into a make-up artist agency, so I’m building my portfolio.
Did LCF provide good industry contact?
I believe so, many industry people are teaching the courses and monitoring what comes out of LCF. It has given me an edge.
How would you describe your style and approach to work?
I have a visually contemporary style, with some classical influences. Recently I’ve been into minimal looks, I like the idea that less is more.
What would be your advice for people considering BA (Hons) Hair and Make-up for Fashion?
I suggest that learning the practical skills before coming into LCF is the way to do it. For the international students, like me I sometimes struggled with it. Staying open minded, and learn English well, is another good tip.