She’s the lead makeup artist at AJ’s of Chicago, who doesn’t take any mess. She can powder a nose while serving a side-eye. She’s walked the runways of Chanel, Tom Ford, Betsey Johnson, and many more. But there’s much more to Katrell Mendenhall than her persona on the Style Network’s “Chicagolicious.” Here she gives us the juicy tea on what happens behind-the-scenes of the hit reality show, her beauty must-haves, and how she maintains her long, chemical-free mane!
UPTOWN: Give us a little background on Katrell before “Chicagolicious.”
Katrell: I was born and raised in Silver Spring, Maryland. And moved to L.A. after high school for several years, and now I live in Chicago. Although I love Chicago, it will not be home forever … I’ve got my eyes open for relocation, after “Licious” of course!
U: Besides AJ’s, where are some other places you’ve worked as a professional makeup artist?
Katrell: M.A.C. cosmetics is where I started my makeup journey. I was a manager and then left because it was time to do my own thing. I started off freelancing for commercials, movies, corporate companies, and when things started rolling I started my own business … I have artists that I send out to different events when I can’t make it. I’m not exclusive to AJ’s, which makes running both very easy, but extremely busy!
U: How did you know makeup artistry was the career path for you?
Katrell: I’ve been modeling since I was a kid, and I remember sitting backstage in amazement at the transformation of what makeup could do. So one fashion week I started to ask the makeup artist questions. I’m sure she wanted me to shut up!! I went from asking questions to asking if I could be an apprentice … I was so fascinated by the art, skill, and transformation. Well one thing lead to another and here I am.
U: Do you think “Chicagolicious” accurately depicts your character?
Katrell: I love that you jump right in with these questions. I feel like everyone is so afraid to ask … So here is the tea … Everything on TV seems really exaggerated. You’re definitely getting a portion of my character, but not all of Katrell.
U: You and Valincia Saulsberry definitely have a rivalry going. And in some ways, you’re depicted as a “villain.” What’s really behind all the drama, in your opinion?
Katrell: I’m not afraid to speak my mind openly and honestly. I have strong opinions just like the next person, but a villain I’m not. I can’t help the minds of others if villain is what they perceive.
U: And speaking of drama, how do you protect your professional brand when potential clients may react negatively to what they’ve seen on the show?
Katrell: I think my talent and background speak for itself. I’m a working model, who gives back to thousands of young girls and boys on how to make it in this industry. My success rate is constantly growing, having several of my kids grace covers of magazines and appear in feature films, commercials, fashion shows, and so much more. I’m extremely professional. I want the kids under my umbrella to succeed, and I think that’s portrayed in the show.
U: You’ve mentioned being committed to improving the self-esteem and confidence of young girls, but haven’t given Austin Maxfield her props or words of encouragement. Do you think the professional makeup world is too cut-throat to foster mentor relationships?
Katrell: I’m the type of mentor who’s going to be hard. I’ve always had Austin’s best interest at heart and want nothing more for Austin to be successful.
U: How has being on “Chicagolicious” affected your dating life?
Katrell: Ohhh, chile! ["MaCray Huff voice"] It has totally affected my dating life … There isn’t a lot of time for dating, unfortunately. But if Mr. Right comes along, I’ll make time … whenever that happens.
U: OK, now for the fun questions: What are five beauty essentials every woman should have in her purse? And why?
Katrell: Powder if you have oily skin. Liquid if you have dry. There’s no need to do both unless you just HAVE to have full coverage. Add a touch of concealer under the eye.
Adding a little color to your cheeks will give radiance to the face. The key to blush – it should look like it’s coming from within your skin, as oppose to just sitting on top of the skin. Choose the right shade.
Eyeliner! It’s a personal preference of where you wear it – top of the eye or bottom – and what look you’re going for – soft or dramatic. I suggest pencil if you know you’re going to be busy and always on the go. Liquid if you have the five extra minutes and want a bolder eye.
Mascara is a staple you should always have.
Don’t go too neutral on the lips … you want something to have a little pop!
U: If you could wear only one cosmetic for a month, what would it be and why?
Katrell: This is a no-brainer for me – mascara!!! Every girl should play up her best feature, and I’m told my eyes are what work best for me. I’m comfortable with no foundation and all that jazz. Mascara seems to wake me up on my most tired of days.
U: I heard your long hair is all yours — no weave, no relaxer. How do you maintain your mane? How do you protect it when wearing straight styles? What are some of your favorite hair products?
Katrell: Yes it’s true; this long mane is all mine! I’m big on hair care … having healthy hair says a lot about a woman. Whether it’s yours, you purchased it, wear locs, etc., maintaing a well-groomed look is extremely important. I wash my hair once a week and deep condition once a month. I get my ends trimmed, which is such a necessity with natural hair, every three and a half weeks. The less heat the better, of course. So air drying is my regular routine. I do nothing special to keep it straight … tie it up at night and it’s ready to roll in the a.m. My favorite hair products are Aveda Rosemary Mint Shampoo & Conditioner.
U: Now let’s talk about Chicago! What is your favorite place to eat, sleep (hotel), shop, chill with your girls, and enjoy a sexy date?
Katrell: My favorite places to eat are Mercadito Chicago, Bijan’s Bistro, or N9NE Steakhouse.
My favorite hotel is Trump Towers or The Peninsula.
My favorite place to shop is KIZ Chicago.
My favorite place to chill with my girls? My place … I’m a great hostess! We always have an amazing time.
Any or all of the above make for a sexy date!!!
