The Met Gala is always the site of some of the most glamorous beauty and fashion looks of the year, and this year's "Gilded Glamour" theme was no exception. No stranger to dazzling stages and carpets alike, Emmy award-winning Pose actress MJ Rodriguez was excited to debut her unique interpretation of the Gala's theme. For the inside scoop on her beauty prep process and the staples she always keeps in her bag, BAZAAR.com caught up with the star and makeup artist Camille Thompson ahead of the actress's anxiously awaited Met Gala entrance.

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What does gilded glamour represent for you?

To me, the theme of gilded glamour is an homage to the past eras of glamour. A time when women in particular expressed fashion through brilliantly corseted garments—something I personally love.

What was the inspiration behind your overall beauty look?

    I was looking forward to embodying a look that ties our modern era of style and fashion to the Gilded Age itself; exploring that parallel was exciting.

    How does your beauty look coincide with your outfit selection for the Met Gala 2022?

      I’d say my beauty look in particular is a dynamic and essential piece in my overall Met Gala look. It's quite tailored and precise, like [women of the era] but with a modern, fresh take.

      Do you prefer wearing bolder or more natural-looking makeup for red carpet events and why?

        Personally, I prefer wearing bolder looks on the red carpet. I feel that [opting for bold makeup] is a great way to capture a beauty look and trend at the same time. However, since my outfit for the Met Gala is quite eye-catching, I decided to stay more neutral with my beauty choice since it feels more complementary.

        What’s your favorite part of the glam process, and why?

          I love doing a full skincare routine before glam! I’ve noticed when my face is most fresh and at its healthiest, the makeup just lays on so smoothly. I also like to meditate and prepare for the moment that's about to happen, especially since the Met Gala is simply a moment in and of itself.

          What products do you like to keep in your bag during events?

            I love to keep a lip color, compact mirror, and Charlotte Tilbury’s Airbrush Flawless Powder in my bag, which I always reach for to touch up with throughout the night.

            Shop MJ Rodriguez's Red Carpet Favorites
            Collagen Superfusion Facial Oil
            Charlotte Tilburry Collagen Superfusion Facial Oil
            $85 at Charlotte Tilbury
            Credit: Charlotte Tilbury
            Charlotte's Magic Serum Crystal Elixir
            Charlotte Tilbury Charlotte's Magic Serum Crystal Elixir
            $85 at Charlotte Tilbury
            Credit: Charlotte Tilbury
            Airbrush Flawless Finish Setting Powder
            Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Finish Setting Powder
            $45 at Charlotte Tilbury
            Credit: Charlotte Tilbury
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            Tiffany Dodson
            Associate Beauty Commerce Editor

            Tiffany Dodson is currently the associate beauty commerce editor at Harper’s Bazaar, where she specializes in trend forecasting, building relationships with major and emerging brands, and crafting shopping stories—from holiday gift guides to product road tests. Tiffany's work has previously been featured in outlets like SELF, Bustle, and Teen Vogue, and she's been quoted as a commerce and beauty expert in publications and platforms like The Business of Fashion and NPR’s Life Kit podcast.