Studio FX

I was recommended this place by my good friend Neil who saved the day with my make-​up dilemma. I am dressing up as McPhisto (Bono’s alter ego on the Zoo TV Tour) for the upcoming U2 tour and I was in need of white make-​up since the other store I used to go to closed down.
There is a picture on my profile of when I dressed as McPhisto on the Vertigo tour a few years ago in Las Vegas which gives you an idea of the character I am trying to be. It’s tradition for me to be dressed as McPhisto at every U2 tour. I haven’t missed a tour dressing up since the late 90’s. I am sure as hell not going to let two make-​up stores in Vancouver stop me either, therefore, was thankful when someone sent me this lead.
I came into the store and bought some water based white make-​up. The lady was very helpful, however, I could tell that she was distracted and really wanted to finish rather than asset me but she was a good sport about it. If I am spending a lot of money on make-​up I would at least expect a little attention, especially since my needs for my costume are slightly unconventional with a different environment that could affect how the make up sits on my face.
At least one piece is down of the costume…3 more to go.

I personally know nothing about make up but I came in looking for items for my Halloween costume. The staff were super friendly and knowledgeable. They showed me how to apply the make up I was buying and answered all my questions with no judgement! I loved it and cannot wait for halloween!

Great store! Lots of options and the gentleman working was very knowledgable and willing to help. I will definitely be visiting again!

Yes, yes and yes! For the true makeup lovers, this is the place you want to get your goods at. When I say TRUE makeup lovers, I don’t just mean the ladies that like bridal makeup and pretty shit, I mean special effects movie makeup and weird prosthetic makeup that can turn a beauty queen into a zombie and transform a good Halloween costume into an amazing one.
For some reason this is in the Merle Norman store, but the staff are super knowledgable and can help answer any questions you may have about application, airbrushing, blending and becoming. They sell prosthetics, wigs, airbrush paints, glitter, eyelashes, and every other thing you are going to need to make your ideas come to life. When you’re in there you’ll probably want to sell your soul, just so you can get all of the rad shit they have. For me its hard to even step in the store because I get so distracted by all the fun stuff. They also offer discounts to students who have registered with makeup schools, which kinda makes me want to go back to school just so I can get the discount!

I like this store better than their old location and I found the recent seminars offered here useful. Sheryl Lynn is always wonderfully helpful. There is no cheesy sales tactics here or pressure to buy and I really dig the solid great service.

The best spot to grab stuff for your make up kit. The staff is always sweet and helpful. if your a makeup artist or do makeup for fun, come here for fun stuff.

Way, way, way back, I was a makeup artist. You’d think it was glamorous, but between the grit and makeup beneath my nails and working for (almost) free, I discovered while I may love makeup, I didn’t love the profession.
And that’s why Halloween is so awesome! I get to visit my old haunts, like Studio FX and buy some fun Ben Nye and Kroylan again.
Most recent purchase: water based face paints and sponges. You can’t go wrong with Studio FX, the people who work there know their stuff and for professional grade theatrical colours, which are the only thing you should ever put on your body (throw away that dollar store blood, seriously!), this place has it all.
Why it shares space with a Merle Norman is beyond me, but trust in the glitters, golds and every colour of the rainbow that these wonders provide.
Location: main level of Royal Centre (landmarks — RBC and Staples)