Diva Mode! Ellie the Elephant’s Whitney Houston Makeover for WNBA Opener

The 2025 WNBA season kicked off with a show worthy of a true diva. The New York Liberty, celebrating 30 years, enlisted their beloved mascot Ellie the Elephant for an unforgettable Whitney Houston-inspired performance. But what most fans didn’t see was the meticulous beauty work that turned a plush elephant into a pop icon. Vogue went behind the scenes to reveal every detail of this beauty metamorphosis. At Mellouk Beauty, we believe every transformation deserves quality products — get ready to be inspired!

The Concept: Why Whitney Houston?

The New York Liberty wanted something monumental to mark their 30th anniversary. Nothing embodies power and emotion quite like Whitney Houston’s voice. Choosing Ellie to channel Whitney was a natural fit — she’s already a fan favorite, and her contagious energy perfectly matches Whitney’s grandeur.

Behind-the-Scenes Beauty Prep

Ellie’s transformation was no small feat. The makeup team worked for hours to create a look that was both true to Whitney and adaptable to a mascot’s form. The plush skin required special techniques to ensure the makeup adhered without smudging. A sticky primer base was followed by thin layers of shimmery eyeshadow.

The Finishing Touch: Red Lips and Gloss

The vibrant red lip was the highlight — a Whitney classic. For Ellie, they used a long-wear liquid lipstick in cherry red that survived jumps and dances. A clear gloss on top gave that glossy finish we all love. A hyaluronic acid lip serum was applied beforehand to keep lips hydrated and plump.

Sports Makeup: Techniques That Work

Mascots need makeup that withstands sweat, bright lights, and intense movement. The techniques used on Ellie can be adapted for anyone wanting a long-lasting look for daily wear or special events. The secret lies in the right products.

Primer and Foundation: The Base of It All

A mattifying primer was essential to control oiliness (yes, even mascots can shine!). Then, a high-coverage liquid foundation applied with a damp sponge ensured evenness. For us mere mortals, an illuminating primer can be the secret to a radiant, long-lasting complexion.

Eyes That Shine Like Stars

Ellie’s eyes got layers of silver and gold shadow with a dramatic cat-eye liner. Extra-long false lashes made her eyes appear bigger. A waterproof eyeliner was crucial to prevent smudging. Tip: a good waterproof mascara and a shimmery eyeshadow are investments worth making.

Key Products That Made the Difference

The New York Liberty beauty team revealed some key items used on Ellie. While the brand isn’t disclosed, the product types are universal — you can find amazing equivalents on the market.

• Illuminating face serum: For that pre-foundation glow.
• Red matte liquid lipstick: Long-wear and intense color.
• Shimmery powder eyeshadow: Silver and gold for a star effect.
• Makeup setting spray: To keep everything in place.

How to Adapt Ellie’s Look for Everyday Life

You don’t need to be a mascot to rock a Whitney Houston-inspired look. Here are some practical tips:

For a Game or Casual Event

Invest in a long-wear red lipstick and a bold eyeliner. Keep the skin light with a medium-coverage foundation. A highlighter on the temples and cupid’s bow gives that diva touch without overdoing it.

For a Special Night Out

Go all out on the eyes: smoky neutral shadow with a pop of shimmer in the center of the lid. False lashes and a red lip gloss. Finish with setting spray for all-night wear.

Conclusion: Your Turn to Shine

Ellie the Elephant’s transformation into Whitney Houston showed that makeup is art, expression, and most of all, fun. Whether for a basketball game or your daily routine, you deserve to feel like a diva. At Mellouk Beauty, we have the products and expertise to help you create the look of your dreams. Book your appointment via WhatsApp and come shine with us!

FAQ

How long did Ellie’s makeup take?

About 3 hours, including plush skin prep and layering products.

What kind of lipstick did they use on Ellie?

A long-wear matte liquid lipstick in cherry red, topped with a clear gloss for shine.

Can I use the same techniques at home?

Absolutely! The primer, foundation, and setting spray techniques are universal and work on any skin type.

Where can I buy similar products?

You can find equivalents at any cosmetics store — look for illuminating serum, matte liquid lipstick, and shimmery eyeshadow.

Does Mellouk Beauty offer makeup services for events?

Yes! We have packages for parties, weddings, and sports events. Contact us on WhatsApp for more details.