MAC Cosmetics: The Billion Dollar Ball

The "Billion Dollar Ball" was a landmark event for MAC Cosmetics, celebrating the significant milestone in the brand’s mission to raise $1 billion for the MAC AIDS Fund, which benefits HIV/AIDS research. With over $525 million already raised over 30 years through the sales of the Viva Glam lipstick range, this event served as a tribute to the brand's ongoing commitment and a pledge to continue this noble cause.
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Concept and Design

The vision for the "Billion Dollar Ball" was to create a memorable, impactful experience that celebrated MAC’s achievements while emphasizing the importance of the cause. The Financial District of New York City, a symbol of power and success, was chosen as the venue. An abandoned vault was transformed into an elegant, red-themed wonderland, providing a stunning backdrop that symbolized the significant financial contributions made toward the fight against HIV/AIDS.

To honor the stock market thematic, ticker tape LEDs were incorporated throughout the venue, displaying moving charitable messages. This dynamic element kept the cause at the forefront of the celebration. Additionally, a custom-fabricated product display spelled out "VIVA," where guests could try on the Viva Glam lipsticks. A highlight of the décor was the custom-fabricated VIVA vault, complete with a chandelier and piles of money, creating a visually stunning centerpiece that reinforced the event’s theme and purpose.
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Execution

The event was designed to be immersive and visually striking, utilizing money motifs, retro telephones, and an abundance of MAC’s iconic lipsticks to adorn the venue. The red carpet saw VIPs like Normani, Winnie Harlow, Lil Kim, JT, and Lourdes Leon, who set the glamorous tone for the evening. Inside, guests mingled under a giant crystal chandelier, with Serena Williams, Teyana Taylor, and Leomie Anderson adding to the star-studded ambiance.

The event began with model Alex Consani introducing Aïda Moudachirou-Rébois, MAC’s global general manager, and Drew Elliott, MAC’s global creative director. They took the stage to express their gratitude and highlight the importance of the new ambassadors, Danna Paola and Kim Petras. Their advocacy for the queer community and women's rights aligns perfectly with the ethos of the MAC Viva Glam fund, which continues to donate 100% of the purchase price to charities supporting sexual, gender, racial, and environmental equality globally.

The performances by Kim Petras and Danna Paola were the focus of the evening, featuring vogue dancers, a carefully built lightbox stage that played against light and shadows to create moving visuals, and plenty of glamorous and queer moments. These dynamic performances captivated the audience and added a vibrant energy to the celebration.
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Highlights

The climax of the evening was undoubtedly Kim Petras’s performance. Her energetic renditions of her latest hits, including the viral single “I Don’t Want It At All,” brought the house down. Guests danced and sang along while enjoying custom cocktails inspired by Viva Glam lipstick shades. The atmosphere was electric, and the sense of community and shared purpose was palpable.

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Full review on Vogue.

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