Interview date
23nd December 2011 - Part one
ModelCo founder and CEO Shelley Barrett knows a thing or two when it comes to tanning. Having previously worked as a model agent in Sydney she was a regular on shoots and backstage at fashion weeks. She knows first hand what women want from products - and what actually works. The brand's iconic Tan Airbrush in a Can is in any self-respecting self-tan enthusiast's bathroom and make-up artists rave about the highlighting properties of the Luminosity Shimmer Whip. Let's see what products whip her into a frenzy. Over to you Shelley...
What inspired you to create ModelCo?
Before ModelCo I owned a modelling agency and worked very closely with my models, as well as makeup artists, photographers etc. I saw firsthand the need and want for products in the market, that didn’t yet exist. One day I came up with the idea to create a heated eyelash curler, the very first of its kind! Not long after that came Tan Airbrush in a Can – the world’s first self-tan product in aerosol! For me, it was about finding unique gaps in the market and creating SMART and innovative beauty products. It was this mentality and way of thinking that gave birth to the brand.
What is your personal beauty product?
I’m a bit of a beauty junkie, so I have many.. One product that I simply can’t live without is La Prairie Skin Caviar – It hydrates my skin and gives it an instant burst of life! Tan Mousse is also my staple! A good tan, always makes your look and feel slimmer.
Do you have anything exciting you can share with us?
Well… ModelCo has a new tanning innovation on the way!! Very exciting! Stay tuned!
What is your beauty secret?
I travel a lot so a little trick that I swear by, is to always have a dissolvable sachet of electrolytes powder handy! It hydrates your skin instantly, and gives you that healthy glow.
If you had to pick one fav fashion item where would it be?
Im a huge fan of Aussie designers – I love anything Collette Dinnigan. Her dresses are so feminine, I have many.
Sun or Snow? (topical)
Sun of course…. with loads of sunblock and a bit of fake tan!
What one beauty product would you be lost without / desert island beauty product?
I do love a long full lash, so Id have to say mascara. Fibre Lash Brush on False Lashes mascara is my fave as I don’t have long lashes naturally… I don’t think I could survive without it now!
