Ariana Madix has been turning heads on Love Island USA season 7 with an array of jaw-dropping looks, and her glam team is spilling the secrets behind her stunning transformations.
Known for her incredible style and bold fashion choices, Madix’s second stint as the show’s host has seen her explore everything from beachy waves to high-fashion glam.
In a recent interview with PEOPLE, her hairstylist, makeup artist, and stylist shared the inside details of how they create these unforgettable looks for Madix, who’s proven herself to be a true fashion chameleon this season.
Hairstylist Carl Bembridge’s Vision for Madix’s Hair
For hairstylist Carl Bembridge, the goal was clear from the start: make every episode feel fresh and different from the last. “We wanted to make it completely different from last year,” Bembridge explained.
This season, he infused a bit of ’90s nostalgia, girly vibes, high-fashion moments, and even some edge into Madix’s looks, with a special focus on curly and wavy textures. “This is giving Splash [the 1984 film with Daryl Hannah],” Bembridge said of one mermaid-inspired look, even nicknaming Madix “Mer-Madix.”
To achieve these stunning hairstyles, Bembridge packed a lot of hair options—around 70 pounds of hairpieces, including wigs, clip-ins, bangs, and various shades. “My girls have to have options!” he said, ensuring that Madix had the perfect hairstyle for every moment.
Throughout the season, Madix has rocked everything from mermaid waves to a dramatic brunette wig, Rapunzel-like braids, and piece-y bangs. And with the season still going, there are sure to be more memorable looks to come.
Makeup Artist Krystal Dawn’s Collaborative Approach
Makeup artist Krystal Dawn emphasized the importance of collaboration when it comes to creating Madix’s looks. “Most of it came together on the day,” Dawn shared, explaining how they would discuss the vibe for each outfit and select makeup that complemented the hair and outfit.
For example, if Madix wore a fringe, the makeup would focus on fresh blush and lips, while a pulled-back hairstyle might call for a bold winged eye.
To tackle the island heat, Dawn relies on great skin prep and a solid foundation. “I’ve been using the Milk Hydro Grip Primer for extra glow, and NARS and Haus Labs foundations have been real heroes this season,” she explained.
While some makeup artists may reach for powders to combat sweat and shine, Dawn prefers a more natural approach. “We don’t like her skin to look overly matte or cakey,” she said. Instead, she uses minimal powder and relies on setting spray to lock everything in place, trusting that the prep will hold up through the day.
Stylist Emily Men’s Detailed Planning for Madix’s Wardrobe
Stylist Emily Men works closely with Madix, carefully curating her wardrobe before she heads to filming in Fiji. Men explained the meticulous planning process, including a fitting where they try on everything, make decisions, and finalize accessory choices.
“I try to consider every detail and angle for each outfit, even down to her nails,” Men said, noting that she uses press-ons for versatility so Madix can change up her nail look with each outfit.
Men also tailors all of Madix’s clothes to ensure a perfect fit, with a second fitting before Madix heads off to the set. “If any last-minute adjustments need to be made, we are so lucky to have the on-set wardrobe team, Kim Hurwitz, Emily Abbey, and Karissa Loveday, who are amazing at sorting out any last-minute issues,” Men shared.
Confidence Is Key
While the planning and execution behind Madix’s looks are impressive, her confidence is a key element of why she pulls off so many different styles so effortlessly. Men credits Madix’s openness to trying new looks as a major factor in their collaboration.
“Ariana is so comfortable in her own skin that she can effortlessly pull off so many different looks,” Men said. “That confidence really shines through.”
Clarkson’s glam team, including hairstylist Carl Bembridge and makeup artist Krystal Dawn, all work together to ensure that each component of her look complements the others, creating cohesive, stunning results that continue to impress fans on Love Island USA.
Ariana Madix’s looks on Love Island USA season 7 are a testament to her versatility and confidence, thanks to her amazing glam team. From edgy, high-fashion moments to soft and girly styles, every look has been carefully crafted by hairstylist Carl Bembridge, makeup artist Krystal Dawn, and stylist Emily Men.
With Madix’s willingness to experiment and her team’s attention to detail, her fashion and beauty moments are bound to remain one of the standout aspects of the season.
