Jan 14, 2014

Marilyn Monroe has always been Brittany Martinez’s muse. So when the recent College of the Mainland cosmetology graduate heard about the Big Sexy Hair Glam Contest to create a vintage hairstyle, she envisioned the actress’s elegant curls. Recreating the past challenged her, and she made several attempts before she perfected her look.
 
“I taught myself by messing up,” remembered Martinez.
 
The Hitchcock resident’s work was rewarded and Martinez’s self-portrait of the style won first place in the contest run by the hair product company Sexy Hair. She won a makeover by Sexy Hair stylists, a $1,000 prize and a trip to Hollywood. However, the best part of the prize for Martinez is the chance to stay in Marilyn Monroe’s suite at the Hollywood Roosevelt.
 
“I love history actually, so to see the suite and to walk down Hollywood Boulevard and see stars’ names is really cool for me,” she enthused.
 
Martinez earned her one-year cosmetology operator certificate from COM in December and passed her licensure exam. While looking for a job at a salon, she is working as a freelance makeup and hair artist for formal events and weddings.
 
“I’m still shocked I won,” she said. “Hopefully this on my resume will give me a boost.”

For more about the COM cosmetology program, visit www.com.edu/cosmetology.