“True art is characterized by an irresistable urge in the creative artist”. ~ Albert Einstein
Rituals — Patrick Rosas’ second book — was recently launched before the holiday season. (I know, I’m late in posting!) The book is a stunning compilation of his latest work in collaboration with six of his favorite photographers: Neal Oshima, Filbert Kung, Marc Nicdao, Patrick Uy, Joan Bitangcol and Glenn Gordon, and the beautiful men and women of Manila of whom he has had the pleasure of working and establishing close relationships with.
Hardbound and covered in pink Vellum paperThis copy is encased in glass, which makes it all more precious and desirable. This version is also on sale at National Book Store.Published by ABS CBN. Proceeds from the sale of the book go to charity. Beauty with a conscience.One of the sponsors, the Estee Lauder Group of Companies was a major contributor to the book. It seems the color red and pink and its varying shades were made to convey femininity in its glory.Roses for Rosas. The red centerpiece meant to channel and exude the passion in the man.Rhoda Campos Aldanese, a former colleague, was kind enough to extend the invitation to me to attend the launch with her. Posing with her own photo. I wish all selfies and I.D. photos looked this good.Rhoda Campos Aldanese Photographed by Mark Nicdao. I also had the privilege of doing her makeup for the Tatler Ball a few weeks before this event.Ladies going to the Tatler Ball. Rhoda Campos Aldanese and Julie Boschi were glammed up by myself and Arvie Matibag for their hair. Whaddya think Mr. Rosas?
Here a couple of my favorite photos from the book.
My aunt, Baby Araneta Forés. I am biased, indulge me. This made the cover of Rogue Magazine recently. Photographed by Marc NicdaoFresh Faced Restaurateur and chef, Margarita Forés. Indulge me once again. No one does the Clean and Fresh look like Patrick does, that’s why he is always in demand for skincare and TV commercials . Photographed by Marc Nicdao.Maricel Soriano like you’ve never seen her before. Glam O Mama! Breathtaking! Photographed by Marc NicdaoGwedolyn Ruais, Miss World Philippines 2011 as Queen Nefertiti. Oh the endless possibilities. Perfect peg. Loving the neck, so graceful and elegant. Photographed by Filbert KungElizabeth Taylor in the house! Dont you wish you had eyebrows like those? Lola Puga Photographed by Neal Oshima.Saving the best for last, Gretchen Barretto as a Masai Princess. Stunning! Patrick Rosas’ muse and dear friend who also helped in making this book a dream come true for him. Photographed by Marc Nicdao
This book serves as an inspirational reference to all makeup artists and lovers of beauty, color and women. Acclaim and praise also belong to the photographers who gave life to the photos which (in my opinion), leaves a powerful impact on the reader.
Rituals was so named because life is all about rituals and its interconnection to the universe. He sought to change the perception that rituals are not meant to be boring but to see the beauty in doing something as a moment and in the moment. The pegs and inspiration that he used and interpreted with his muses are very on point and seem to depict what each of them can magically transform into by the wave of his brush and hand. Magician or Wizard? Both. Just ask these men and women. He is what you call the Philippines’ version of Kevin Aucoin and I agree that he should be put in that same pedestal as Kevin’s as he will always continue to evolve as an artist with as much gusto and verve one can expect from a true artist. I can’t wait for more surprises from this man.
I am truly enjoying leafing through this book, taking my time in admiring each page and seeing endless powerful images of beauty. Dream and forge on as they say. Thank you Patrick Rosas for making me believe.
Rituals is published by ABS CBN publishing and is currently available at National Book Store for P4,500.00.
Time seems to be elusive. I need more of it! As the saying goes, “It’s more precious than gold yet it cannot be earned, bought or saved.” I’ve barely settled in our new home, and then throw in workshops and events attended — and for added fun, serving clients in between —I’ve had no time to sit and update the blog.
I’m not complaining, I just need more time management and extra pair of hands!
Here are a few workshops and events I’d like to share with you in my learning quest to makeup greatness.
TransDerma Event (September 2014)
Having Good skin is always a beauty asset.
I can’t stress this enough: Having good skin is essential in makeup application. What good is a smokey eye, or a glammed up look if the canvass underneath is not healthy and worthy of a closeup or selfie?
Which brings me to the TransDerma products, and the event launching. I considered an invitation from an aunt of mine, Maricel G. Carrascoso ,who is bringing in this wonderful amazing product from Japan: Transderma Vitamin C and Vitamin A.
Both are serums that are plant-based, free of all the harmful ingredients and other chemicals that add to its product longevity. I’m a firm believer in the effects of Vitamin C serum in the face as it acts as an oxidant, skin brightener and overall improvement of the skin. This has been part of my skincare regimen. Add Vitamin A serum to the skin cocktail mix, and you have the best of both worlds in the magic of youth preservation and delay.
Vitamin A serum, on the other hand, is responsible for skin surface exfoliation and reducing fine lines and wrinkles and is applied at night only.
Both serums are not greasy; they melt on contact. The best part is the packaging, which uses pumps for dispensing for ease of use.
Testimonials from these women were enough to convince me that there is room for one more player in the skincare market. Some of these women who tried all the high-end products out there swore that upon switching to this line, their skin never felt better. Why? If you can read the selling point at the photo at the back of the product packaging, it says product does not contain water. Notice how sometimes we apply a product and after a few minutes our skin color turns ashy gray or dark?
Selling point which got me hooked.
Graziella Ronlan, an international makeup artist and expert in skincare teamed up with Swedish doctor. Dr. Alvin Ronlan Docent, to simplify the skin care program by harnessing the power of natural ingredients combined with technological systems for faster skin penetration. Ladies, there are no harmful ingredients or superflous synthetic compounds so it is definitely safe to use. Free of artificial color, preservatives, perfumes and other synthetic compounds, Transderma products are not tested on animals and are suitable for women and men of all ethnicities and skin types.
If this bottle comes with the model shown, I’m getting more than one bottle!Vitamin A to be used at night.
For more information and orders, call Maricel G. Carrascoso at +63 917 886 8860 and Carmen Ocampo Krause at + 63 917 796 3559.
Marche Editorial (September 2014)
It was a Beautiful Affair. I, together with other makeup artists, Nybie Ng, Charisma Vergara, Daisy Talosig and Gem Uy, were invited by Marché Magazine to showcase our Bridal artistry for their October issue. It was a beautifully orchestrated soiree by the Marché Magazine team, headed by Japhilee Zapata, who made our day smooth sailing throughout. Photographer Chris Gallegos made our models very comfortable and gorgeous by way of his easy manner and photographic skill in showing the right angles of our models. Joaquin Ambata Films shot the BTS. Honestly, I felt like I was in a movie set, but unfortunately I wasn’t the one being pampered, haha!
Below are some scenes on what went on that fun day.
Hocus Focus. Making sure her eyebrows are on fleek.My Inspiration and pegs for the shoot.First look done. Where is my gown Inno Sotto?Selfie before I face Chris Gallegos our Photographer.Its a wrap. Second look done!Thank you Japhilee and to the Marché MAgazine team. Hair stylist Rikki Suarezs T-shirt said it all.
Velada 2014 (October 2014)
Being an Assumption alumnae, we have a yearly tradition of celebrating our sisterhood which we call a velada. A velada is a homecoming or reunion of sorts, which is hosted by the youngest batch of HS graduates celebrating 25 years (Silver) followed by the jubilarians celebrating 30 years (Pearl), 35 years, (Jade), 40 years (Ruby), 50 years (Gold), 60 years (Diamond). It is a song and dance extravaganza highlighting the Assumption education and values, and interpreted as a reflection of what it has made us become the women that we are today.
This year, my batch celebrated 30 years, and our theme was “Still One”. My Team and I did the hair and makeup requirements for the show — and yes, I multitasked! I was both performer and an active participant behind the scenes.
Our inspiration for the presentation was Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, to represent the qualities of the Pearl which is timeless, elegant and precious.
Photo taken from the ACHS84 FB Page. Written by Malou Dulce BetchoMakeup Peg. From the MAC ArchivesAudrey Hepburn Makeup PegHair inspiration pegMy Look for the first day of performance
My Batchmates all made up and ready to break a leg. Lally Aldeguer showing us the signature pose that gave us the confidence. Andrew Ferraris is the choreographer that made us look so good. Photo taken from Leia Regala.
Kudos to my glam team that made us look gorg! Marissa Narvaez another Assumption Alumnae whose turn to celebrate her 25th year next year, Alee Benson, Rikki Suarez, Nida, OJ Cacnio, Toni Gutierrez, Kit Fabia and Rochelle Tiosen.
MAC Artistry (November 2014)
Chiqui Ortiz Dingcong sent out a message in our group, UMAP, asking the members who wanted to attend the event of MAC Cosmetics. She announced that she could only accommodate 7 people to come with her, so I immediately signed up. Anything that involves MAC Cosmetics I try as much as possible to attend, regardless of whether it is has something to do with being a guest artist for that day or just attending their wonderful seminars.
They launched their Makeup Artistry Skills In Minutes program, mainly targeting their huge consumer base on how to apply their own makeup and be good at it. It is a series of interactive videos narrated and demonstrated by MAC Cosmetics Senior artists like Gregory Arlt and Caitlin, who were in Manila recently to give makeup demos, and Romero who I consider makeup gods. (Gregory Arlt is the makeup artist of choice for Gwen Stefani whenever she hosts The Voice.)
Videos were splattered on giant screens showing the consumer how to perfect your makeup skills by following the tips given in the monitor. You click or slide the screen to learn how to do each part of your face by simply following the steps. These videos are available for viewing on YouTube for your viewing pleasure.
MAC Cosmetics has again been in the forefront of merging technology with their plethora of makeup knowhow and marketing efforts to complete the personal beauty experience. I have not seen this yet with the other makeup brands, except Clinique, wherein they provide the client with a board with sliding knobs that asks questions as to the kind of skin and face type one has in order to provide them with the right analysis of the product suitable to the area of concern.
Remember this?
Perfect Lipstick application
Brow Perfection
Gorgeous Polished lookWIth fellow UMAP MUA, Emily and Mikee Raymundo Senior MAC Trainor
This interview features student and model Maria Alexandra Victoria Pueo, better known as “Gugu” Francisco. She modeled a bridal look for the Acie Fores website, and shares her work experience as well her favorite aspects about working with Acie, whom she fondly refers to as “Tita Acie.” Photos by Jack Alindahao and Styling by Alexandra Lapa The Reluctant Stylista and Hair by Rikki Suarez
1. What did you enjoy about working with Acie? What did you like about her makeup style, as well as her work style/ethic?
Tita Acie was very professional and easy to work with because she was accommodating and even ordered pizza for me (haha!). She also made our shoot fun by telling jokes, which helped me stay awake even f I only had 3 hours before the shoot. Her makeup was neat and organized — which may seem like it is not a big deal, but you are assured that you’re working with a professional. You know this is true when you see she takes good care of her things and values them by keeping the brushes and sponges clean all the time, after working. I like that she listens to my suggestions, and I feel like she has a special touch for each model which clearly shows on her work. She has mastered the balance of being accommodating and professionalism which are I believe are important to succeed in her field.
2. What are some of your favorite features on your face, and how was Acie able to highlight these? How did her work on you make you feel?
I liked how she treated my eyes: Since they are hooded and deep set, they need a specific stroke to be enhanced. There are certain colours of eye shadow that don’t work for me — like black, since I have hazel eyes and it will over power them. She made sure my eyes were highlighted, bringing the best out in them. Next are my cheeks: Since i am a plus size model, it is important for any make up artist to contour my face properly, especially my cheeks, temples and double chin, to enhance the features but not make me look bigger. She already knew how to manually modify my face even before the shoot went on and knew which parts to highlight to react well with the studio lights.
3. Can you share some photos with us of your look by Acie Fores?
4. What are some of your favorite makeup products/must-haves for daily wear?
For my sunblock, I use VMV as prescribed by my derma. For my moisturizer, I use the Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturizer Broad Spectrum in Bisque. For my blush, I use MAC’s Beauty powder blush in Formal, and my lipstick is MAC’s CremeSheen in How Darling. For my mascara, I use They’re Real by Benefit. Tools: I use the Real Technique brushes, the on-location mini brush trio set, specifically.
I had the privilege of being interviewed and featured in Manila’s top lifestyle hub, When in Manila, a couple of weeks ago when writer/columnist Tonette Nicolas of The Health Junkie, was assigned to do the write-up. We met up with my friend and blog coach, Martine de Luna at the EDSA Beverage Design Studio, to do a makeover on Tonette, to showcase the “Acie Fores makeup” style and aesthetic. We did a “workday to weekend” transformation. Here are some of my favorite shots of Tonette from the shoot.
Tonette Nicolas, blogger and writer for WheninManila.comBefore the transformation…The “weekday” / daytime look for TonetteThe “weekend”/ night look — just a bit of glam to the daytime look.
Singapore was my brief respite last month mainly for my daughter’s gymnastics s competition held at Bishan Stadium. Trying to squeeze my shopping habit in between her training schedule had proved to be a fun experience. Sephora, Takashimaya, MAC Cosmetics, Guardian Pharmacy and Sasa have been my “candy land” and mecca of sorts when I’m visiting. In Hong Kong, it would be the same, except that Mannings Pharmacy is the counterpart of Guardian.
So described below are my “hauls” to satisfy my cosmetic addiction although if I had a bigger budget, I probably would have a preferred client card from the Cosmetics Department of Takashimaya Dept Store. Sadly, no. Some of these items are not new products, but sometimes I am a late bloomer and I usually take a second look and convince myself to just go out of my box sometimes and try them. Below is a recap.
My Singapore Haul
Top going clockwise
MAC Mineralize Charged Water Moisturizing Gel – Lately, I’ve been looking for light moisturizers that doesn’t feel heavy on my face , particularly now with the change in weather, its been so humid. Applying this lightweight cream gel feels so light and literally cool on your face, it is quickly absorbed. Perfect when you’re in a rush and need to apply concealer or foundation right after, it doesn’t slip and slide off. The effect on the skin is similar to that of a primer, it leaves a thin film on your skin but acts like a barrier and protection from the elements in the air.
Hourglass Veil Primer – I first tried this primer at a Sephora store in the US and was completely hooked over by its claim that it provides extra wear for your makeup’s staying power. It really does. It definitely is a pricey primer but so worth it. I just wish it came in a bigger bottle.
Laura Mercier Secret Finish + Mattifying Cream – I know I know, 2 primers? I’m a sucker for anything that makes my makeup last longer. I recently read that this product is the holy grail of mattifiers. Used under or over makeup, it soaks up the oil on the face like a Bounty paper towel. It’s that good.
Hakuhodo Cream/Liquid Brush – Hakuhodo is the Rolls Royce of brushes and it is pricey. It makes use of goat hair and each brush is handmade which makes it the most sought after line of brushes. Hakuhodo is as old as the Geisha industry and famously used by them. Called the Itabake brush, I saw this being used by a famous US makeup artist to apply cream contour and when he blended it using this brush, it seemed so seamless and there were no visible brush strokes on the face as opposed to using a foundation brush. I had to try it for myself.
Hakuhodo J 5521 Highlighting Brush – Also made out goat hair, the tapered end is good for applying highlighter on the high points on the face. This brush will make you or your client feel so relaxed, its that soft.
Cyber Colour Eyeliner and Liquid Eyeliner duo – While my personal preference is a gel liner, this was given to me by the Sasa ladies as a Gift with purchase. The other end is a liquid eyeliner while the other end is a pencil pen. The only drawback is that it is difficult to snap back on after using it, but otherwise it is waterproof.
Lorea’L Eyebrow pencil in Light Brown 02 – I saw this being used in the Lorea’l workshop that I attended last August. While I admire all those YouTubers who preach perfectly stenciled brows as the bomb, Miss Gex Garcia showed us how to wow the brow without looking too dark or harsh. Again I was hooked on this product. This has been out of stock quite a bit so I made it a point to stock up on this while I was at Sasa.
The Balm Bahama Mama Bronzer – I needed a new bronzer since my other bronzer broke out in pieces after a gig and it signaled me to buy one without the fragile packaging. Housed in a sturdy carton like box, it definitely was a winner for me. Plus I don’t look orange is a big plus. What can I say, I’m a late bloomer in discovering this wonder powder. It also doubles as an eye shadow, how’s that for multitasking?
La Roche Posay Anthelios 30++ Sunscreen protection – Packaging is tops, it has a nozzle like tube that squirts out the right amount for your face. It has UVA And UVB protection and when applied, it has a mattifying effect, not greasy on the face. Shine go away.
Bioderma Sebium H2O – One of my favorite makeup removers next to my cult favorite Ponds. Why? Fastest makeup remover without the tugging and pulling. Your face is back to its natural state in seconds. Its good for those with sensitive skin too. I hoard this stuff!
I call her my Electric fan. Tina has been my muse/model of sorts. Good Bone structure, check, lithe and model proportions, check. It helps too when she always encourages you to do your best and is very easy to please. Call it mutual admiration, she best epitomises what I look for in a dream client, her words are always ‘ikaw na bahala’ or “its up to you what looks best on me”. Despite her minimal look of a bare face and a bold lip, she pulls it off very effortlessly. Her shameless plug interview with me humbles me no end and I thank her for making me her artist of choice. Below is the light chat we had.
1. For what kind of event(s) did you hire Acie to create your look?
These are some of as far as I can recall. I may have missed one or two since Acie has been doing my make-up and my daughter’s (Marga) from the time she began her career in this field.
My sister, Sandy’s Wedding (July, 2011) – My make-up, Marga’s, the Bride’s (Sandy’s) and my other sister’s (Nadine’s)My Assumption High School Velada: 25th Anniversary (October 15 & 16, 2011) – My make-up on both days and on the second day, Acie also did the make-up of a group of my HS classmatesThe Belair Pasinaya – May 2012 – Makeup by AcieFlores de Mayo, Makati (May 4, 2012) – Make-up of Marga
2. What did you enjoy about working with Acie? What did you like about her makeup style, as well as her work style/ethic?
Acie is very professional with me and my daughter, Marga, even if she is my first cousin. She comes on time, complete with make-up, paraphernalia, assistants, and even pegs. She takes the time to understand what it is exactly that you want by asking questions about the event you’re going to, what you will be wearing, what you want or do not want. I noticed that she also makes the effort to “size up” your personality and she takes this into consideration as well. From there, she’ll incorporate her own touch and the result is always impeccable! She is very passionate with what she does and her expression of eagerness to do your make-up (every single time!) is contagious. These are only some of the many reasons why I wouldn’t have anyone else do my make-up and my daughter’s, but Acie.
A professional shoot. Makeup by Acie Fores.
What I like most about Acie’s make-up style is that it always turns out to have that natural look, yet my face is strikingly enhanced in all the right places. For someone who doesn’t really wear make-up on an everyday basis, it makes me feel like I’m still myself. My daughter and I get compliments all the time and the make-up stays the entire duration, even if the event is from morning to evening.
3. What are some of your favorite makeup products/must-haves for daily wear?
Ironically, I don’t wear any make-up on ordinary days. I simply put on my favorite shade of red lipstick by Mac or Chanel. This is how I’ve always done it for decades. In fact, I don’t know how to apply make-up. So, on special occasions when I really need to, I call on Acie to do her magic!
You never forget your first time experiences positive or otherwise, it never ceases to be erased in your memory. Sandy was my first bride and my first wedding experience as far as my makeup career is concerned, and it was truly memorable and fun. It’s been 4 years since her wedding and there are 2 additions to her family: 2 adorable female dogs, a Mini Schnauzer named Lexie and a West Highland Terrier Allie. Here she shares her thoughts about her most important day and her beauty favourites which have become her staples that make her feel confident and ready to face the work world.
1. For what kind of event(s) did you hire Acie to create your look?
My pre-nup shoot and wedding day.
2. What did you enjoy about working with Acie? What did you like about her makeup style, as well as her work style/ethic?
It was SO easy with, Acie! She asked me some questions about my style (wedding motif, wedding dress, etc) and what kind of look I preferred. I just told her that I wanted to look clean and fresh (sleepless nights should not show! Haha). That was it! But then again, I knew from the get go that Acie understood me and I personally loved her style so I was very comfortable and more than happy to let Acie do her magic on me. It was a joy having Acie part of my special day and will look back at the total experience fondly.
3. Can you share some photos with us of your look by Acie Fores?
Acie did my prenup makeup.
On my wedding day, Acie also made up my bridesmaids.Me and my gown; makeup by Acie.
4. What are some of your favorite makeup products/must-haves for daily wear?
Some of my recent favorites are:
Lips: MAC lipstick in my usual shade – Dubonnet BB2
Face:
Benefit’s POREfessional as my base / primer
Benefit’s ERASE paste concealer
Make-up Forever Pro Finish Multi-use powder foundation in shade Neutral Honey
Eyes:
Make-up Forever Professional Aqua Eyes – Water proof eye liner pencil (2L /brown shade)
In our unpredictable climate here in Manila, you just never know when it’ll rain, when it’ll shine. Admittedly, those times can be frustrating, especially if you’re deciding on what type of makeup to use! Naturally, changes in the weather call for the appropriate cosmetics. And so, I’ve rounded up some “weather proof” picks that can take you from rain to shine (sans the shiny face — no pun intended.)
Essentially, most of the products chosen have to be waterproof, and budge proof in a humid weather like ours. Creamy textures are key in maintaining the longevity of the makeup wear and easy to apply with your fingers. At the same time, you want your beauty products to multitask for you when you are in a hurry. Here are some of my recommendations, which should work for any skin type and lifestyle.
Remember my blog post about Estee Lauder and Brian Patterson a few months back? Well, our paths crossed once again and I hope it is the start of a love affair. Love was the theme during the Francis Libiran Bridal Fashion Show at the Weddings at the Peninsula Bridal Fair last June, June being the universal month associated with weddings. The show coincided with the opening of Libiran’s atelier in The Peninsula, so it was the opportune time to promote his 40-piece bridal collection.
Francis Libiran is known for his intricate beadwork and serpentine silhouette. You may drool over his creations here (www.francislibiran.com).
Estee Lauder was tasked to do the makeup services for the 40 models while the Franck Provost team did the hair on all the models. The fashion show marked a sort of “debut” for Estee Lauder as the sponsor of a fashion show, and as such, Estee Lauder skincare and cosmetics were used on the models and celebrities who graced the runway that day. Among the celebrities who modeled the bridal collection were Kim Jones, Iza Calzado,Venus Raj, and Karylle, while Jake Cuenca, Sam Milby, Christian Bautista, among others, modeled the menswear line.
Backstage and behind-the-scenes (where I was), each makeup artist was assigned four models to prep for the show. (I did three male models and a lady.) The photo pegs for the makeup style were clean, fresh, nothing to glam and overdone — right up my alley!
We used the star products of the show, which were the skincare essentials: the Double-Wear Foundation, the Advanced Night Repair, and Matte Primer (which are available in Rustan’s beauty source counters nationwide).
And here’s a few behind-the-scenes shots with my fellow MUAs. Such a fun-filled event!
Estee Lauder and Franck Provost magiciansMy seatmates for the day, Moriel and AninaWho’s your caddy? This was mine.
Thank you, Estee Lauder, for including me in your team for Weddings at the Pen! For the complete range of Estee Lauder skincare and cosmetics, visit Estee Lauder counters in Rustan’s Beauty Source outlets nationwide. You can also log on to www.rustans-thebeautysource.com for the complete online catalog.
When it comes to looking your absolute best, Acie makes it easy. Being a makeup artist is her first love and she remembers her days as a young girl leafing through the pages of Vogue and Glamour, fascinated with a person’s magical transformation through the power of makeup. Her goal is to make every woman’s beauty shine through on the most important day of her life — be it a wedding, graduation, prom, opening of a stage show, or even one’s editorial shoot. As Acie shares, “Every woman is beautiful, it’s simply my job to remind her.”
There he was, a vision of eye candy if you will. He began the session by apologising. He apologised for his lack of command of the English and Tagalog languages, he was, after all, Indonesian.
He warmed my heart. Sigh…., even if he spoke in Hebrew or Russian, it didn’t matter at all, standing a few feet from me was the man of the hour, Albert Kurniawan, NARS Philippines Chief Makeup Artist. His talent and work are legendary. Indonesian influence is not a bad thing. He grew up watching his mother apply makeup and he carried with him an image of a very put together woman who never left the house without her eyes done.
He is the celebrity makeup artist in demand from the likes of Heart Evangelista, Megan Young, Venus Raj, Shamcey Supsup, the Bb. Pilipinas Pageant candidates, Georginna Wilson, Toni Gonzaga to name a few — and the list is endless. He is probably on their speed dial.
What celebrity or model or bride has his hands not touched yet? Obviously mine. I still have to wait for a very red carpet event if I want to be under his beauty spell. I can just hope that one day our paths will cross whether that is on a professional or social level.
NARS Philosophy
The place was packed when I arrived and I should’ve left earlier so I could get a good seat. Sensing it was going to be a well attended workshop, I opted to stand on the side to get a better view of the demo. While waiting for a colleague, Pia Reyes, I took a quick look at the NARS boutique to check out their items.
At the heart of the cosmetic line lies the chic modern luxurious simplicity of its look. Yes simple and luxurious, a contradiction in itself. Francois Nars the creator of his own brand believes that “There are no rules when it comes to beauty. He says, “Whatever makes you look and feel good is right.” It’s unmistakable appeal lies in its ability to make the consumer feel like its a guilty caprice, part of a wardrobe staple or a coveted accessory that makes it part of a lifestyle or simply a state of mind.
Packaging designed by Fabien Baron, reflects Francois Nars’s love of form and function with its black soft casing with his name emblazoned in white. Fashion and Classic Colors are outrageously pigmented because it is designed to make the woman express herself creatively and imbibe her own style. Credit belongs to him with the introduction of The Multiple, the original 3-1 multi functional stick that can be applied to the eyes, cheeks and lips, and who can forget the iconic universal blush Orgasm and its spinoffs? Turkish Delight Lipgloss as famously worn by Kim Kardashian?
Chic, simple and modernChoose your wild!Edited Skincare and Beauty routine simplified, the NARS way. Nuance defined
NARSkin
Albert Kurniawan hit the nail on the head when he began stressing the importance of having good skin as a key essential in having makeup look and feel good on the face. He moisturised the model’s face with the Nars moisturiser and the star of the skincare line is the NARS brightening serum that brightens the skin and dulls the imperfections on the face. Second to that was the application of the primer as a key element in the longevity of the makeup. Their skin line prides itself with the use of prime ingredients that are plant derived and maximising its benefits in giving our skin the utmost nourishment.
With the advent of wholistic living, NARS believes that what we put in our bodies like water, nutrients, antioxidants and supplements should mirror the good things we put in our skin . What he offers is a condensed skincare line that will cleanse, hydrate, protect, refresh and revitalise in order to keep it in its tip top shape. Having good skin is the perfect beauty compliment any woman can have.
Secrets from the Master
Put eye drops first on the eyes to brighten the whites of the eyes and clean out any debris. Eyes look bigger and refreshed.
Feel the skin. Touch the face to see if the face is properly moisturised and prepped for makeup. It should feel slightly tacky. You may apply a light application of BB cream prior to the foundation application.
Powder the skin lightly after moisturing. This will give a satin finish to the skin, a perfect canvas for the foundation application. This step is a no-no in the makeup school, as we were taught the golden rule that creams over creams and powder after powder. The logic behind this is the caking of the skin when you begin your makeup. Albert explained that this step is a foolproof way of making the makeup last longer. I did try it on myself and it does feel like satin when I applied my foundation after. Makeup Myth no. 1 debunked.
Apply foundation with your hands and not a brush. Aside from leaving streaks, the warmth of your hands will activate the ingredients of the foundation making the skin look dewy and well, like second skin. Most NARS liquid and cream products are best applied with the hands as heat activation causes the ingredients in the product to fully sink in the skin.
After the application of the foundation, contour the face using the number 3 motion. Begin at the side of the temple, the hollow of the cheek and ending at the jaw line. He says never to be afraid if you apply blush more than the usual, from the apples of the cheek just on top of the hollow of the cheek and do not go past the ear. Blush will disappear quickly once you’ve finished with the makeup. Apply a highlighter on the high points of the face as a last step.
Line the lower lash line with a light green pencil instead of the white or beige colour. The reason is because in basic colour theory, green counteracts redness and neutralises it. Genius!! All along I’ve been applying the beige liner on the waterline to conceal redness. I really learned something new again. Another Makeup trick learned.
When you apply mascara to the lashes, begin by applying a volumizing formula first. Wait for it to dry and then apply a waterproof one when you have applied your false lashes. This guarantees your lashes will be immune to tears and sweat. I shed a tear as I write this. Tee hee hee hee
Use an eyebrow pencil first to frame the eyebrows. Brush upwards to soften the harsh edges. Fill brows with powder. Whatever is left on the brush, use it at the front of the brow so as not to appear surprised, dense and dark. Use a brow gel to tame the brows and apply a highlighter underneath the brow to give it a finished look.
Essential products to have are the Multiple stick, mascara, Tinted moisturiser, lipstick, blush and loose powder. Essential brushes to have are the blush/powder brush, brow brush, a dense eye shadow brush and a blending brush and lip brush. Concealers are meant to be applied with the fingers hence, no concealer brush.
You may pair a bold lip with a bold eye. Look for balance.
Finished result
Day Look
Nice to see that brilliance also needs a flaw. Sigh.. he forgot to finish the other brow. Evening smoky look. Gorgeous pa rin.
Makeup should have no rules. A vibrant orange lip paired with a smoky eye looks gorgeous.
My Takeaways
Aside from the complimentary photos, sample sachets of the primer and serum, I took away from this workshop a validation of sorts that makeup should be simple enough but also fun. Real and sexy are a state of mind. Simplicity and luxurious can coexist.
Albert’s seminars are still ongoing, from 5:30-7:00 pm, June 20 at the Rustans Alabang Town Center and at Edsa Shangrila on the 27th. Be early, seats can get taken quickly.
