"It's All About Radiance, Not Rules": DJ Honey Dijon Discusses Pre-Set Rituals, Ibiza Vibes, and All-Night Performances…

      Welcome to Beauty's Night Out, a series focused on essential beauty discussions that are taking over the nightlife. Get ready for an exclusive preview of the latest trends, behind-the-scenes tutorials, and plenty of inspiration for your night out—all you need is your favorite playlist. If you're curious about achieving long-lasting makeup and humidity-resistant hairstyles, turn to a DJ. These performers are masters at creating party looks that endure all elements—sweat, smoke, and stage lights—while embodying the essence of their performance. They also manage to look fresh and energized after multiple all-night gigs, where the dancing continues until dawn. This balance of style and practicality is perfectly understood by Honey Dijon, a celebrated musician and Grammy winner recognized as "fashion's favorite DJ." "My hair, my makeup, my skin—they’re all energy. It’s a visual vibration," she shares with Who What Wear. She guides her visual story based on the event, whether it be headlining Pedro Pascal's 50th birthday in London, crafting a track for Sol de Janeiro's Badalada campaign, or currently holding a residency at Chinois Ibiza. However, every look must remain vibrant and smudge-proof (unless intentionally grungy). As she puts it, everything needs to be "glowing but bulletproof." If that doesn't embody a nightlife beauty goal, we don't know what does—so we asked her to divulge every detail.

      Next, Honey talks about her step-by-step beauty routine she relies on before her Honey F#cking Dijon show, her favorite pre-party rituals, and all her recommended products for stage presence.

      To begin, what role does beauty play in your experience as a DJ? How do makeup, hair, and skincare affect your performance and overall vibe? For me, beauty is a different form of language. When I DJ, I’m sharing a sonic story, and my appearance is part of that narrative. My hair, makeup, and skin—all convey energy. They create a visual vibration.

      Do your sets influence your makeup and hair, or the other way around? Certainly. Everything connects. If I’m playing a darker, more underground set, I might opt for a bold, graphic eye or slick, sculptural hair to complement that vibe. Conversely, if it’s a more soulful or euphoria-filled set—think sunrise or a closing set in Ibiza—I’ll soften my look with bronzed skin, gloss, and a hint of shimmer. Sometimes, however, I do the opposite.

      Do you select specific looks for certain sets, or do you prefer to mix things up? I thrive on transformation. I never want to be confined to a single aesthetic. That’s the beauty of nightlife and performance—it’s fluid and rebellious. Nonetheless, I prefer to keep my style chic and minimal; that’s my constant.

      If you had to choose a favorite look, what would it be? Oh, that's a tough decision. The look I did recently for the Sol de Janeiro Body Badalada campaign felt so authentically me—glowy, radiant skin, deep bronze, with this sensuous, sunlit warmth that encapsulated “Brazilian after-hours meets high fashion.” It was opulent yet playful—a perfect balance.

      Overall, what’s your beauty philosophy? What’s your approach to beauty? Beauty is political, personal, and cultural. I’m Black, I’m trans, I’m an artist—and my beauty is a statement. I view beauty as ritual, armor, and celebration. I don’t pursue perfection; I pursue presence. When I feel connected to myself and show myself love and creativity, that’s when I feel beautiful.

      Are there any beauty or self-care rituals you cherish before a set? I always take a moment for solitude. I’ll use a hydrating face mask, listen to iconic artists like Sade or Grace Jones, and center myself. A good facial massage with oils helps activate my skin and stimulate blood flow. For my hair, I might slick it back for drama or let it flow for movement.

      Right now, you're performing a residency in Ibiza, which looks amazing! What’s your step-by-step beauty routine for those performances? Ibiza is pure magic, and Chinois has already been so enjoyable this summer. For my sets there, I aim for a glowing yet bulletproof look.

      I start with a double cleanse—sweat and SPF are very real in the heat. Then I use a cooling mist and vitamin C serum, followed by a lightweight moisturizer and a few drops of face oil for a dewy finish. For makeup, I prefer a skin-like foundation, sculpt my cheekbones, and go for something bold—like a red lip or a metallic eyelid. My hair is typically sleek and controlled due to the humidity. I finish with a fragrance; I want to leave a memorable scent.

      Have you made any changes or additions to your routine while in Ibiza? Has living in Spain influenced your beauty