Something that I’ve always been just a bit embarrassed by has been my obsession with reality TV, and America’s Next Top Model was one of the first of many reality TV competition shows I’ve come to love throughout my life.

The faces of girls like Yaya DaCosta, Kelle Jacob, Dani Evans, and Fatima Siad all fascinated me and fueled my love for beauty as a young, aspiring makeup artist. The show as a whole helped me develop a real appreciation for all the hard work and effort that goes into my favorite fashion ads, beauty campaigns, and even music videos; but nothing fascinated me more than watching the contestants get their hair & makeup done for each photoshoot.

This has also resulted in my long-lasting admiration and respect for two of the most criminally under-recognized figures in ANTM’s history as well as the makeup industry in general: Mathu Andersen & Sutan Amrull.

Most of my favorite photos from Top Model were the beauty shots as they emphasized not only the girl’s most gorgeous features but the artistry that goes into creating a captivating portrait of a woman. The show was sponsored by leading cosmetics brands like Revlon, Sephora, & Smashbox, but none more iconic than CoverGirl. I’ve always personally loved CoverGirl’s ads and their partnership resulted in some of my favorite pictures & makeup looks from the show.

Also, the glam on the finalists at the panels of the earlier cycles was literally perfect.

While I lean towards the more subtle “Easy, breezy, beautiful CoverGirl” look, there were many shoots that required bolder, brighter, darker and/or more editorial makeup that I loved as well.

I don’t know if anyone else misses Top Model as much as I do, but I do know that I see those early 2000s beauty trends I came to love while watching it everywhere today and I’m pretty sure its impact on pop culture is indisputable.

RIP America’s Next Top Model (May 20, 2003 — April 10, 2018)