Blog

The Makeup by Kiley Smith

Facebook Copy-color Created with Sketch.
Instagram-color Created with Sketch.

Explore

I'm Kiley Smith, an experienced makeup artist with over 20 years in the industry, based in Fairfax City, Virginia. 
My passion lies in creating natural, radiant makeup looks that enhance your beauty, ensuring you feel confident and stunning with a flawless finish. 

I'm Kiley smith

Hello!

Read it!

With FX’s Love Story premiering February 12th, fascination with Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy beauty favorites and her signature minimalism is resurfacing. While the series revisits her iconic romance, it also reminds us of her quietly powerful beauty aesthetic. The allure of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy beauty favorites lies in her restraint. She didn’t rely on heavy glam or dramatic […]

Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy Beauty Favorites

Makeup

Makeup

bridal makeup inspiration photos unfiltered Washington DC makeup artist

Read it!

Every so often, a client sits down in my chair and pulls out her phone to show me her inspiration — and I can tell instantly that the image has been heavily filtered, AI-generated, or edited beyond recognition. The skin is poreless. The lips are perfectly symmetrical. The cheekbones could cut glass. It’s a beautiful […]

Why Unfiltered Inspiration Photos Make for Better Bridal Makeup

Washington DC makeup artist Kiley Smith sitting in front of a professional high-CRI makeup light in her Fairfax Virginia studio

Read it!

Note: This post contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend tools I personally use in my kit. As a professional makeup artist, my goal is simple: help every client look and feel their absolute best. Whether you’re heading […]

Why I Use High-CRI Makeup Lighting on Every Client

Makeup

Makeup

Read it!

At first glance, the true cost of a natural makeup look may seem like it should be lower, as it appears simpler and more subtle. However, did you know that creating a flawless natural look takes professional expertise, top-tier products, and time to ensure the makeup looks seamless and radiant?  Here’s why achieving a natural […]

The True Cost of a Natural Makeup Look

Read it!

In today’s visually driven world, professional photoshoots have become an essential part of capturing life’s significant moments, promoting personal brands, and showcasing businesses. Whether you’re planning on having a photoshoot done in a professional studio or outdoors, one thing remains constant: the importance of employing a skilled makeup artist.

The Essential Role of Makeup in Photoshoots

Makeup

View Services

The wedding experience

INquire with Kiley

I specialize in professional makeup services, including bridal makeup, photoshoot makeup, and personalized makeup lessons—some of my most sought-after offerings. I also provide expert makeup for special events, TV, and editorial projects. Explore all of my services here!

Discover my signature wedding experience, crafted to give you flawless, natural, and radiant makeup for your special day. From our initial consultation to the final touch-up, I’m here to provide a luxurious and stress-free experience tailored to your unique vision. Click to learn more!

Ready to bring your vision to life? Whether it’s for your wedding, a photoshoot, or a special event, I’d love to work with you. Click to inquire, and let’s start planning a personalized experience just for you!