For years, legendary makeup artist Pat McGrath has been referred to by both friends and fans as Mother. But while that nickname won’t be going anywhere for as long as she’s creating stunning editorial and runway looks that can be recreated with her namesake cosmetics line, there’s now a new way one can — and should, out of sheer respect — refer to McGrath: Dame.
Every year, Queen Elizabeth II bestows the titles of Sir and Dame to a select few Brits for The Queen’s New Year Honours List. For 2021, among the most racially inclusive list in the history of the appointments is Pat McGrath, awarded D.B.E., Dame of the British Empire for services to the fashion and beauty industries and diversity. McGrath is the first makeup artist to ever receive the honor.
“I am beyond humbled that I have been awarded a Damehood in the Queen’s New Year 2021 Honours List,” McGrath said in a statement. “I am truly delighted and humbled to be given this wonderful honor. My mother’s obsession with beauty and fashion ignited my passion for this amazing industry, and I feel blessed to have the privilege of working with some of the most extraordinary people throughout my career.”
McGrath elaborated in a caption on Instagram, writing, “I want to thank all of the amazing people in my life – my mother Jean McGrath, my family, friends, colleagues and you, my fellow Beauty Lovers, who contributed to this award. Not in my wildest dreams could I have imagined that one day Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II would recognize me to be amongst the incredible recipients of this honour both past and present.” She goes on to write, “When I first launched my brand, PAT McGRATH LABS, it was designed to inspire self-expression and individuality. I dedicate this honour in tribute to Makeup Artists everywhere, I adore each and every one of you. Never give up on your dreams – with hard work, creativity and perseverance anything is possible.”
The congratulations have been pouring in, including from many of the models she’s worked with over the years, like dear friend Naomi Campbell. “There is no one more fitting and so deserved of this Honor, You are an artist in every sense not just makeup, your drive and Passion, your embrace of your chickens ( young generation of creatives ) you call them .. your sense of humor making all around you feel at ease!!” Campbell wrote on Instagram. “From one south Londoner to Another I am so Proud of you Pat.”
Congratulations, Dame Mother, on a well-deserved honor and yet another of many inspirational groundbreaking moments in your incredible career.
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