IYKO TURNS 1 / THE JANUARY MAKEUP BRIEF

Why the IYKO Pro Kit Backpack is the Perfect Fashion Week Companion

Why the IYKO Pro Kit Backpack is the Perfect Fashion Week Companion London, Milan, Paris, New York, wherever Fashion Week takes you, one thing remains the same: the backstage hustle is real. From 6am call times to late-night after-parties, a makeup artist’s kit isn’t just a bag, it’s a lifeline. That’s exactly where the IYKO Pro Kit Backpack proves itself to be more than just storage: it’s the ultimate Fashion Week companion. Hands-Free, Stress-Free Fashion Week means running. Running from backstage to front row, from model line-ups to last-minute venue changes. Traditional kit bags can weigh you down, pull on your shoulders, or leave you juggling cases and coffees. The IYKO Pro Kit Backpack keeps it simple: weight-distributed straps, hands-free comfort, and a sleek profile that moves with you. Cobblestones? Tube steps? Cross-city taxis? No problema. Compact, But Built Like a Pro Space backstage is always tight. Between rails of clothes, hair teams, press, and models, the last thing you want is a bulky, boxy kit that takes up too much room. The IYKO Pro Kit Backpack’s compact frame is designed to fit into small backstage setups, while still holding everything you need. With clever compartments, Velcro tie-aways, and lid-space optimisation, your products stay visible and accessible, no rummaging required. Organisation = Speed Fashion Week makeup is all about speed and precision. Whether it’s a bold runway look or perfecting fresh skin in under ten minutes, you don’t have time to hunt through clutter. The IYKO Pro Kit Backpack’s layout means every brush, palette, and product has its place. That translates to fewer frantic searches, faster application, and a smoother workflow when the pressure is on. Sleek Enough for the Front Row Function is key, but Fashion Week is also about image. The IYKO Pro Kit Backpack isn’t just practical, it’s aesthetically designed to look as good as it works. Sleek lines, a professional silhouette, and a polished finish mean you can walk into any venue looking like the pro you are. The Extra Mile Little details matter when the days are long: a side-bin caddy for easy swaps, dividers that adapt to your changing kit, and durable materials that can handle the chaos of Fashion Week season after season. It’s a kit you can trust to keep up with you, and make you look good while doing it. In short? The IYKO Pro Kit Backpack isn’t just a bag. It’s a backstage ally, a travel companion, and a professional upgrade that takes you through Fashion Week (and beyond) with ease. 👉 Pre-orders are now open for our next shipment, landing late September/early October. Secure yours today and step into the next season fully equipped. Shop the IYKO Pro Kit Backpack

IYKO Spotlight: Lyanne Sawyer – Elevating Artistry in a Small Community of Artists

IYKO Spotlight: Lyanne Sawyer – Elevating Artistry in a Small Community of Artists.  This month, we’re spotlighting a true creative force coming out of Malta’s beauty scene: Lyanne Sawyer, a makeup artist whose journey has taken her from the world of fine arts to working behind the scenes of Eurovision. Blending technique with intuition and artistry with authenticity, Lyanne is one of those rare creatives who can do it all, but doesn’t feel the need to. Her path is about balance, boundaries, and beauty on her own terms. From canvas to contour "I started my journey in makeup artistry around the age of 18," she shares. "At the same time, I had been studying fine arts and photography, which I’ve always loved." It wasn’t long before she landed a job at MAC... a role that would change everything. "That’s when I realised how much of an artist I could become through makeup. It was a whole new world, learning about products and ingredients in depth, while also being able to express my artistic side every day, trying new techniques and exploring the world of colour." She describes that era as maximalist "Back then, more was more" but her signature has since evolved into a refined, soft-glam sensibility shaped by fashion and editorial.  “I’ve grown to love a softer, more minimalist approach. It’s taught me techniques I’ll probably use for the rest of my career.” Eurovision and everything after Most recently, she stepped into the international spotlight as part of the glam team behind Malta’s Eurovision entry, a two-week sprint of long hours, full days, and high stakes. "It was both super exciting and chaotic," she laughs. "Being away from home and working every day really pushed me to my limits. What kept me going was the incredible team and Miriana’s trust in me to express my creativity through her looks." Creating space for growth in a small market Being based on a small island comes with challenges, namely, access to products. "My absolute biggest challenge, like many MUAs in Malta, is the limited product variety available locally," she explains. "Ordering online means waiting at least two weeks for delivery. If one essential item runs out, it can disrupt a job." But it also fuels her vision for what’s possible. “There’s significant room for development in terms of product availability and professional training. More advanced workshops and access to diverse products would really elevate the industry here.” Learning to let go of ‘just in case’ As for her setup? It’s taken years to refine, but the game changed when she got her hands on the HANA Pro Kit Backpack. "My kit has been a process of trial and error for years. Especially after getting my Hana bag, I finally feel confident with my setup. I’ve let go of so many ‘just-in-case’ items I never used. Now I carry just the essentials, my Hana and my TML light, and it makes such a difference. My back really appreciates the change." Redefining success Like many of us, her definition of success has shifted with time. "When I first started, I didn’t fully understand my strengths. Over time, I realised I don’t have to excel in every area, focusing on what I love has been key." Now, she’s prioritising longevity over burnout. "I’ve shifted more into bridal and glam, away from film and advertising. It’s helped me work more steadily and sustainably, which is what I want right now." Advice for the next wave of artists For artists working in smaller markets, her advice is refreshingly honest: “A lot of artists glamorise the job too much. At its core, we’re service providers. We work weekends, juggle endless emails, and sometimes miss out on personal events.” But with that realism comes reward. “It takes dedication, but if you have the passion and the perseverance, it’s absolutely worth it.”You can follow Lyanne on Instagram at @lsawyermua