Sang Le with star model Ambra Gutierrez. Photo: Manny Roman. Ambra Gutierrez wears a corset from Caroline Leary. Skirt, Autumnlin. Choker, Jagged Halo Jewelry. Gloves and boots, Maison PFW.
Sang Le was born in Osaka, Japan, in 1991, to a Vietnamese family. His aesthetics have been shaped by a wide range of environments and cultures. As a child, he lived in Vietnam, and in his early youth, he experienced immigrating and moving around California and Illinois. In 2018, Sang established his own style within New York City’s fashion makeup scene.
Specializing in glam makeup, Sang earned the nickname “Glaminator.” Known for his elevated glam techniques, he refined his skills backstage at runway shows and photoshoots, incorporating editorial elements for his clients, such as perfectly groomed brows and a signature wet-look skin, as seen in global magazines.
Ambra Gutierrez wears a corset from Poison. Ring, Maiko Suzuki Jewelry.
Sang humorously recalls his early fascination with makeup: “I remember the first time I paid attention to makeup—watching MTV’s Jersey Shore in 2009. I remembered the orange tan skin, bright pink lips, and raccoon eyes. I used to think that was great makeup, but oh, how times have changed.”
The show sparked his interest in makeup, eventually leading him to Michelle Phan’s YouTube channel, where he found virtual mentorship. Inspired by the Vietnamese artist’s tutorials, Sang honed his skills during a time when makeup trends were heavily focused on Western features.
Starting with raw enthusiasm and curiosity, Sang eagerly experimented with all kinds of makeup looks on models and clients. He fondly remembers his early days of trying out the boldest looks he could think of, “Those poor people. But it was great practice—I got to experiment and get that out of my system.”
With 12 years of experience under his belt, Sang’s approach to makeup has evolved significantly. “I like to focus on great skin and making women look sophisticated and polished. Then I’ll highlight one key feature—like dramatic eyes or bold lips.”
Sang’s journey has taught him three key lessons every makeup artist should know:
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Sang Le believes there is always more to learn, and that each element of the face must be enhanced holistically to create a balanced, standout look. He takes pride in his dedication to becoming a master makeup technician while continually evolving. Sang is also passionate about guiding others, believing that makeup is a collaborative field where everyone can learn from one another.
As an instructor for ‘House of Futures,’ a non-profit organization that teaches high school students beauty industry skills, Sang generously shares his knowledge. He also mentors new makeup artists, eager to support their futures.
Sang’s work has been featured on runways for Prada, Chanel, and Tory Burch. These achievements only fuel his ambition to reach greater heights, proving that makeup artistry knows no bounds—whether in terms of gender, age, or race. From a young boy watching YouTube videos to an internationally recognized makeup artist, Sang is ready to showcase his glam artistry to the world.
Sang Le is the makeup artist behind these photos featuring Ambra Gutierrez:
 Ring, Maiko Suzuki Jewelry. Choker, Jagged Halo Jewelry. Corset, Ann Turk. Gloves, Maison PFW.  Ring, Maiko Suzuki Jewelry. Choker, Jagged Halo Jewelry. Corset, Ann Turk. Gloves, Maison PFW.  Corset, Caroline Leary. Skirt, Autumnlin. Choker, Jagged Halo Jewelry. Gloves and boots, Maison PFW.  Corset, Lia Stubbla Oficial. Gloves, Autumnlin. Choker, Jagged Halo Jewelry.  Corset, Poison. Ring, Maiko Suzuki Jewelry.  Dress, Madison Norman. Ring, Maiko Suzuki Jewelry. Gloves and boots, Maison PFW.  Corset and pants, Autumnlin. Chocker, Jagged Halo Jewelry. |
Photographer: Manny Roman @bymannyroman.
Model: Ambra Gutierrez @ambrabgutierrez.
Makeup Artist: Sang Le @sang_theglaminator.
Hair Stylist: Nunzio Saviano @nunzio_nyc1 using The Cream by Nunzio Saviano.
Wardrobe Stylist: Kevin Parker @kevinlparker
for MAISON PFW @maisonxpfw.
Co-Stylist: Kerry Scott @kingrob1900 for MAISON PFW @maisonxpfw.
Editor: Jieyan Zhong.
Production Assistant: Jose Rodriguez.
Special Thanks to Ashley Jacklyn and the team @grayscale.studios.
Harper’s Bazaar Việt Nam
