Precious Lee on Her Favorite Fragrances and Beauty Must-Haves

Every generation has its iconic cohort of high-fashion supermodels. Throughout the 2010s and 2020s, Precious Lee has cemented herself as part of this era’s group. The Georgia-born model has become one of the most featured faces on runways and in editorial campaigns, making history along the way. In 2016, Lee became the first Black curve model to appear in Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit Issue. She’s also been among the first plus-size Black women to walk for the most prominent design houses, helping them usher in a new chapter in fashion that champions diversity and inclusivity. 

Naturally, Lee’s deeply rooted commitment to celebrating empowerment and individuality is also reflected in her off-the-runway partnerships. She recently signed on to work with YSL Beauty to front the newest digital series campaign for its Libre Flowers & Flames fragrance, a sultry scent meant to evoke feelings of freedom. The imagery—shot by revered photographer Tyler Mitchell—explores what it means to be a Libre woman through Lee’s eyes.

“I love that YSL Beauty has taken the stance to integrate the value of self-expression and individuality,” Lee says. “I’m truly grateful to partner with a luxury beauty brand that not only makes you look, feel, and smell your best but also celebrates being empowered by the freedom to be who you are.”

Ahead, Lee opens up more about working with YSL Beauty, her beauty must-haves, and her incredible career in fashion. 

 The One Thing She Loves About This Campaign

“Firstly, it’s absolutely gorgeous. I love being behind Tyler’s lens. We come from the same city, and it is great to work with someone not only from my hometown but someone who’s not a stranger to breaking barriers. The visuals represent a new era of empowerment, modern femininity, and the power of blooming. This campaign’s essence highlights femininity’s beauty and strength while embracing power and vulnerability. The Libre woman is free inside and out. She knows who she is and what she wants, and she won’t allow anything to get in the way of that.”

The One Fragrance She’s Always Wearing 

“I love to tailor my scents according to the seasons, but fragrances like Libre Flowers & Flames are perfect to wear year-round. I’m obsessed with the beautiful union between the lily flower, orange blossom, hints of vanilla, and the warmth of the cocoa palm tree flower. It teleports me to a delicious, tropical fantasy.”

The One Makeup Product That Is Always In Her Bag

“I never leave the house without a lip product or two in my bag. You can always go barefaced, throw on a frame, and bring it all together with a gloss or a fun lip color.”

The One Piece of Advice a Makeup Artist Gave Her

“One of the first makeup artists I worked with told me I should do my eye makeup with my eyes open. It allows you to create the best shape tailored to your eye rather than working against your unique contours.” 

The One Skincare Routine She Swears By

“First things first, it’s important to use a great hydrating cleanser. When I have the time, I love to do a face bath with a bowl of ice and water. It helps prepare and wake up the skin. I also like to do a 30-second lymphatic drainage massage with simple techniques that mimic the gua sha. I like to use my hands and facial oil. Then, I love using a great toner and a super-rich eye cream. I also slather the thickest lip treatment I can find on my lips and allow that to sit the whole time I’m in the makeup chair.”

The One Beauty Icon She’s Inspired By

“I find beauty in so many amazing people, but nothing trumps the influence of my mother, Anita. For as long as I can remember, she’s always embraced her femininity and has so much fun with beauty. She is an inside-out stunning queen who taught me it doesn’t matter how beautiful your face is if your actions do not match.”

The One Beauty Tip She Learned From Her Mom

“One of the tricks I’ve learned from my mom is that if you want a healthy glow makeup look, shower after you get your makeup done. Just keep the shower pressure low. It is an expert-level trick, so try a couple of practice runs.”

The One Red-Carpet Beauty Look She Loves

“One of my favorite beauty looks was for my second time attending the Met Gala. I remember wanting to explore a galactic siren look with a bleached brow and highlighted gorgeous skin. I wore a balaclava, so the look definitely focused on the beauty. I love pushing boundaries and evolving out of the normal beauty looks, especially for moments as big as Met Gala.” 

The One Clothing Item She Wears All the Time

“My black catsuit. You can dress it all the way up or down. It’s comfortable, but it’s still fab.” 

The One Career Moment She’ll Never Forget

“I’m so grateful I’ve accomplished many goals, like walking for houses I’ve idolized and working with brands like YSL Beauty. But I have to say, I get emotional when I am approached or receive messages from supporters that share how I’ve inspired them.” 

The One Piece of Advice She Has for Aspiring Models

“Aspire to inspire rather than conform to whatever you think the fashion gaze entails.” 

The One Thing “Freedom” Means to Her

“Freedom is vital. Freedom is air. Freedom is required to live out loud. I feel the most free when laughing and immersed in beautiful nature. Freedom is important today, yesterday, and tomorrow. Freedom is a birthright and not a trend.”