Makeup Icon Sandy Linter Reflects on Decades of Reinvention

From Marilyn Monroe to Madonna, the pioneering artist shares stories of her storied career

Mar. 4, 2026 at 12:08pm

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Sandy Linter, one of the most influential makeup artists of the 20th century, looks back on her decades-long career working with icons like Marilyn Monroe, Jackie O, and Madonna. From her start doing her mother's makeup as a teenager to becoming a fixture in the fashion and entertainment industries, Linter's story is one of constant reinvention and adapting to changing trends and aesthetics.

Why it matters

Linter's career trajectory mirrors the evolution of the beauty and makeup industry, from the demure looks of the 1960s to the bold, disco-inspired glamour of the 1970s and 80s. Her work with trailblazing photographers and models provides a window into a transformative era for fashion, beauty, and popular culture.

The details

Linter got her start doing her mother's makeup as a teenager, honing her skills by pouring over the pages of Glamour and Vogue. After attending beauty school, she landed a job at the Kenneth makeup counter at Bloomingdale's, where she quickly became known for her bold, colorful makeup looks that matched the emerging disco aesthetic. This led to work with legendary photographers like Richard Avedon, Francesco Scavullo, and Chris von Wangenheim, as well as iconic models and celebrities like Marilyn Monroe, Jackie Onassis, Iman, Diane Von Furstenberg, and Madonna. Linter's career was marked by both triumphs, like working with Vogue and making up stars, as well as challenges, including dealing with difficult photographers and the devastating impact of the AIDS crisis on the industry.

  • Linter started doing her mother's makeup as a teenager in the 1960s.
  • She attended Wilfred Academy of Hair and Beauty Culture in the early 1970s.
  • Linter began working at the Kenneth makeup counter at Bloomingdale's in 1970.
  • She started working with major fashion photographers like Avedon and Scavullo in the mid-to-late 1970s.
  • Linter attended the opening night of Studio 54 in 1977.

The players

Sandy Linter

A pioneering and influential makeup artist who worked with some of the biggest names in fashion, entertainment, and photography over the course of her decades-long career.

Marilyn Monroe

The iconic actress and model who Linter did makeup for at the Kenneth salon in New York City.

Jackie Onassis

The former First Lady who was one of Linter's clients at the Kenneth salon, where Linter did her makeup.

Madonna

The pop superstar whose bold, signature makeup look in the 1980s was heavily influenced by Linter's work.

Gia Carangi

The supermodel whose struggles with addiction Linter witnessed firsthand, providing a tragic example of the impact of drugs in the fashion industry during that era.

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What they’re saying

“She was always number one for me. She loved makeup and making women feel beautiful. She gave me a look that last a lifetime.”

— Patti Hansen, Model

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, Grocery employee

The takeaway

Linter's story is a testament to the power of reinvention and adaptability in an ever-changing industry. From the bold disco looks of the 1970s to the grunge aesthetic of the 90s, she was able to continually evolve her style and techniques to meet the demands of the times, working with some of the most iconic figures in fashion, entertainment, and popular culture. Her career serves as an inspiration for makeup artists and creatives seeking to leave a lasting mark on their fields.