Marc Jacobs Fall / Winter 2015 Featuring Nars

Fall / Winter 2015 saw Francois Nars iconic look come to Marc Jacobs catwalk. Gorgeous matte skin with a brown eye and dark lip brought attitude to the winter collection.

Marc Jacobs Fall Winter 2015. Viewed 18/04/15. Available to view: http://www.fashionisers.com/fashion-news/marc-jacobs-fall-winter-2015-2016-collection/

François Nars (Nars): “I always try to build a strong look. One of the first things I heard from Marc’s mouth was this idea of a sophisticated woman, with of course Diana Vreeland as a base and the book Swans—taking it from there and making it more modern and more edgy. Whatever you do, make it something eye-catching. We have a very dark eggplant lip, very matte—no gloss. There’s also a matte face with no shine and very structured eyebrows, not too thick and not too thin, just a very defined line. We’re using this beige-taupey color, which becomes kind of silver almost because we’re applying a lot of gloss over the eyelid. Absolutely no blush or mascara, just to bring a little bit more strangeness to the eye. Because the lips are so important and intense, it’s important to balance and do something that’s not too obvious, cosmetic, traditional, or commercial.”

Dark, dramatic and glamorous was the main focus of this makeup look. The hair was brought to the top of the head and twisted which gives the connotations of a head wrap. The hair almost acts as an accessory as the only jewelry seen is a choker. From the neck up no jewelry is used which makes it seem as though the hair pulled forward is the main focus and any other accessory would take away from the fierce effect created. I love how fierce the makeup appears to be whilst having feminine floor length skirts. A strong look but chic.

Marc Jacobs Fall Winter 2015. Viewed 18/04/15. Available to view: http://www.fashionisers.com/fashion-news/marc-jacobs-fall-winter-2015-2016-collection/

I based my timed assessment on Marc Jacobs and took inspiration from the sleek hair and glossy eyes.

Thakoon by Diane Kendal Autumn / Winter 2014 Featuring Nars

Makeup artist Diane Kendal lead the Autumn / Winter 2014 makeup backstage at Thakoon at New York Fashion Week. The makeup created here consisted of chocolate winged liner and creamy skin with slick, textured hair. Kendal used Radiant Creamy Concealer over Sheer Glow Foundation to create the dewy skin effect. Mambo Eyeliner Pencil was used to create the winged liner under the lower lash line.

Thakoon Autumn / Winter 2014. Viewed 18/04/15. Available to view: http://www.vogue.co.uk/fashion/autumn-winter-2014/ready-to-wear/thakoon/backstage-photos/gallery/1112815

Thakoon Autumn / Winter 2014. Viewed 18/04/15. Available to view: http://www.vogue.co.uk/fashion/autumn-winter-2014/ready-to-wear/thakoon/backstage-photos/gallery/1112844

The flawless skin created by Nars creates a natural finish with an artistic twist using a chocolate colour liner on the lower lash line. The makeup reflects upon the collection giving an earth tone to a collection featuring various textures. Mambo eyeliner pencil works well with the colours, textures and materials used throughout the autumn / winter collection. 

Thakoon Autumn / Winter 2014. Viewed 18/04/15. Available to view:http://www.vogue.co.uk/fashion/autumn-winter-2014/ready-to-wear/thakoon/close-up-photos/gallery/1112783 

Phillip Lim Fall 2015 Featuring Nars

"3.1 IS ABOUT CLOTHES THAT REFINE INSTEAD OF DEFINE. A REFINEMENT THAT’S A BIT CLASSIC IN ATTITUDE, BUT IMPARTS A SENSE OF INDIVIDUAL STYLE, WITHOUT LOOKING OR FEELING FORCED. CONFIDENT, CHIC, AND MOST OF ALL, EFFORTLESS. " - Phillip Lim

Designer Phillip Lim unveiled the Fall 2015 collection featuring makeup by Nars. The makeup created reflects the ethos of the brand; classic, chic and effortless. 

Phillip Lim Fall 2015. Makeup by Nars. Viewed 18/04/15. Available to view: http://www.style.com/beauty/backstage/2015/phillip-lim-donna-karan-fall-2015-makeup

The makeup for the fall show featured matte skin, natural eyes and a bold red lip using Nars VIP Red. Creating a classic chic look to bring the makeup trend into fall 2015. The semi matte lipstick created a polished look on a matte canvas. The makeup reflects upon the ethos that Lim created for the brand - 'Classic in attitude.' The VIP Red by Nars definitely creates an attitude to what would be a bare natural look. 

Phillip Lim Fall 2015. Viewed 18/04/15. Available to view: http://www.style.com/slideshows/fashion-shows/fall-2015-ready-to-wear/3-1-phillip-lim/collection/17

Phillip Lim Fall 2015. Viewed 18/04/15. Available to view: http://www.style.com/slideshows/fashion-shows/fall-2015-ready-to-wear/3-1-phillip-lim/collection/19

VIP Red works well with the collection Lim has created as aspects of red can be seen throughout from dresses to clutches. The lipstick is a versatile colour and works well on every skin colour. The makeup is kept simple and effortless to reflect on the clothing Lim creates. Furthermore, a more intricate makeup style would have taken the attention away from the clothes.

Nars Brand Ambasador

Andrew Gallimore. Viewed 15/04/15. Available to view: https://twitter.com/inyourlap

In 2015, Nars signed Andrew Gallimore as their new brand ambassador, bringing an exciting new interpretation and direction to the brand. Gallimore recently was the first brand ambassador at Dior so brings experience to the table. With over ten years of expert experience, Nars have appointed one of the most talented makeup artists to grace our world to date. 

It is not hard to see why Nars chose Gallimore to be their new ambassador. Gallimore is a frequent behind the scenes at fashion weeks and has worked with many famous faces earning recognition in the makeup industry. Andrew Gallimore by Rankin, the book, shows just how creative, surrealist and thought provoking this ambassador is. The book created through the collaboration between Gallimore and Rankin holds pages of unusual works. When studying, Gallimore was interested in the concept of facial decoration using inanimate objects to create art on faces, this included objects such as rubber and thread. Which has evolved into creating shapes and abstract images by using makeup. Creating fine art through beauty has allowed the idea of beauty to be challenged, meaning the boundaries of what can be achieved and accepted have changed.

Being an ambassador for a company means that the artist now promotes the products and becomes the brand. Anything that Nars stands for, Gallimore will now stand for too. So anything Gallimore now produces will reflect back onto Nars as a company. Gallimore will reinforce the ethos of Nars at any event, interview and media venture he takes on. As Dior's first ever brand ambassador, Gallimore definitely has the experience to bring more to Nars. 

Andrew Gallimore by Rankin. Published by Rankin Publishing Ltd. 2014. 

The cover shows the creativity that Rankin and Gallimore share. The intricate detailing and use of colour used within many pieces of work show why Nars were drawn to Gallimore to reinforce their love of colour. 

"Andrew's affinity for bold, boundary pushing artistry marries beautifully with the philosophies François Nars established the brand with 20 years ago, which we still embrace today," says Frederique Lampert, Nars regional executive director for Europe. "I am confident that Andrew, with his natural talent and impressive technical ability, will greatly benefit the brand in the UK and continue to elevate Nars as a make-up artistry brand." (http://fashion.telegraph.co.uk/beauty/news-features/TMG11354661/Andrew-Gallimore-goes-to-Nars.html)

Dual intensity Eyeshadow and Blusher Campaign

Spring 2014 saw Nars introduce Dual intensity Eyeshadow.  The single eyeshadows can be used either wet or dry depending on the finish desired. The eyeshadows claim to last all day with their 'smooth transformative texture'. Nars also released an 8 shade palette of the eyeshadow, with new shades that can also be used dry or wet. The campaign for the eyeshadow was modelled by Daria Strokous who previously modelled for Nars. The campaign was once again shot by the fabulous Francois Nars.

Dual Intensity Eyeshadow for Nars. Daria Strokous. Viewed 18/04/15. Available to view: http://models.com/Work/nars-cosmetics-nars-dual-intensity-eyeshadow-spring-2014

The images for the campaign really make sure the attention is all on the eyes. The eyeshadow used is intense and glamorous, pulling the eye colour out. I personally love this eyeshadow because the intensity can be changed which is great for altering from day to night looks. The colours are beautiful and can be built up or left subtle. 

Nars Dual Intensity Eyeshadow. Viewed 18/04/15. Available to view: http://www.temptalia.com/narsissist-dual-intensity-eyeshadow-palette-reviews-photos-swatches

The eight shade palette seen above consists of Dual Intensity Eyeshadows in Andromeda, Europa, Himalia, Ursa Major, Subra, Giove, Lysithea and Sycorax. The shades are also available as singles in a larger portion. The consistency of the product is fine which allows it to be so versatile. As well as Dual Intensity Eyeshadows, Nars has just introduced Dual Intensity Blushers which can also be used wet and dry. Dry gives a healthy blush to the skin whereas applying the product wet allows it to blend into the skin, which Nars describes as a 'second skin'. The Dual Intensity Blusher comes in six gorgeous shades, Adoration, Craving, Fervor, Frenzy, Jubilation and Panic. Dual Intensity Blushers come as two shades in one, which is great for contouring and creating various shades. The two colours in the Blusher palette consist of different shades of pink and browns which can be used together or separate. The pigments in the palette are lightweight and fine like the eyeshadow palette which creates a 'barely there' finish. The design of the blush features ridges which creates an interesting texture when opening the palette. The blushers are available online now and can be pre-ordered for when you run out. Perfect! 

Nars Dual Intensity Blush. Viewed 18/04/15. Available to view: http://thedailyself.me/beauty/nars-newness/

Spring / Summer Final Image

Spring / Summer 2015 Final Images.

Spring / Summer Test Look

The idea for my Spring / Summer look consists of a pink smokey eye with pink cheeks and a red lipstick. I want the colours to contrast well with the background of green texture that I am going to use. I think that pink eyeshadow could be darker around the crease to really define the eye. So for my final shoot I will find a darker pink shade to help achieve this. I am happy with the rest of the makeup. 

Spring / Summer Facechart and Hairchart

The products used for Spring / Summer Nars inspired shoot are as followed: 

- Bourjois Happy Light Serum 

- M.A.C Strobe Cream

- Kryolan Ultra Foundation 

- M.A.C Pro Conceal in Light

- Illamasqua Translucent Powder

- Benefit Dandelion face powder

- M.A.C Lightscapade

- M.A.C Lip Liner in Nightingale

- M.A.C Mineralise Rich Lipstick in All Out Gorgeous

- Makeup Revolution in Iconic Pro

- HD Brow Palette

- Benefit They're Real Mascara 

- M.A.C Prep and Prime Lip

Step by Step: 

- Cleanse, tone and moisturise the skin paying close attention to any dry patches. The aim of the look is to create dewy skin.

- Apply Bourjois Happy Light Serum across the face once the moisturiser has set in. 

- Mix M.A.C Strobe Cream with the Kryolan Ultra Foundation to create a healthy glow. 

- Conceal any imperfections or dark circles by using M.A.C Pro Conceal in Light. 

- Set under the eyes and the nose with Illamasqua Translucent Powder. 

- Next, lightly contour with Kryolan Ultra Foundation. Lightly so that the healthy glow still comes through. 

- Apply Benefit Dandelion on the apples of the cheeks. 

- Highlight around the face by using M.A.C Lightscapade and a bit of M.A.C Strobe Cream to make the skin dewy. 

- Fill in the brows with HD Brow Palette. 

- Create a pink smokey eye using the pink tones in Makeup Revolution Iconic Pro Palette. 

- Curl the eyelashes and apply Benefit 'They're Real'

- Apply M.A.C Prep and Prime to the lip to get ready for the lipstick. 

- Line the lips using M.A.C Nightingale. 

- Use M.A.C Mineralise Rich Lipstick in 'All Out Gorgeous'.

The Spring / Summer hair I want to create is natural with waves at the front to frame the face and makeup. I want the hair to be natural to create a fresh spring feel to the image.

Spring / Summer Moodboard

Above is the moodboard for my initial idea for a spring / summer shoot inspired by Nars. I want the shoot to be based on pastel colours inspired by the new Christopher Kane range for Nars which shows that neutrals can create the perfect base. The makeup is going to be natural with a flash of colour either over the lip or the eye. The skin will be dewy with a healthy glow to reflect the spring summer look. The hair will be styled fairly naturally at the back, with the front sections before the ear plaited into a twisted edge fishtail braid on either side of the face to add texture to what is going to be a soft image.

The background for my spring summer shoot will be a wall of flowers and green colouring. I am shooting outside so will be using natural light. I have decided to do this to create texture to the image to contrast against the dewy skin that I will be creating. 

Review: Pro-Prime instant line and Pore Perfector

In 2014 Nars released Pro-Prime Instant Line and Pore Perfector, a little white stick of pure genius. The product is to be used before applying the base makeup to smooth the skin of unwanted lines like laughter lines and frown lines and also reduces the sign of pores, which is a god send. The product doesn't cake the skin but literally hides everything as if you are blurring on Photoshop. The Pro-Prime and Pore Perfector lasts throughout the day and doesn't need to be touched up, although the product is of a handy size that won't take up that valuable space in our handbags! Like any stick though it is vulnerable to breakage so pulling up the necessary amount would minimize the risk of this. The perfector sells at £20 which I think is fairly reasonable for what you get. You are paying for quality and a product that really works. 

Nars Pro-Prime Instant Line and Pore Perfector. Viewed 16/04/15. Available to view: http://www.girlsofto.com/nars-spring-2014-collection/

Assessment Images and Moodboard

The moodboard above shows my inspiration for hair and makeup for the timed assessment. My makeup and hair is based on Nars doing a catwalk show for Marc Jacobs, for which Nars is a regular behind the scenes. The makeup is going to consist of dewy skin, dark lips and natural eyes. The hair is a slick back ponytail, which will be plaited in a twisted edge fishtail plait. 

Facechart showing the look I want to aim for in my assessment. In depth makeup list and the hair drawing will help me to get the idea from paper to face.

How to- Hair: Twisted Edge Fishtail Plait

- Brush the hair thoroughly to get rid of any knots and tangles.

- Place a small amount of gel onto the palm of your hand and work through the top of the hair including the roots. 

- Brush the hair up into a high, sleep ponytail. 

- Part the ponytail into two sections. 

- Start the braid off as you normally would, taking a strand from the right over to the left, and the left over to the right.

- Repeat this twice. 

- Take a piece from the right, instead of placing over the top onto the left section, take it behind and place into the left section. Repeat with the left section, taking it behind to the right.

- Repeat this twice. 

- Alternate the placing of hair from infront and behind. 

- Each section needs to be repeated twice, so two from the left and two from the right. 

- Tie the plait with a hairband once you are about two inches away from the ends of the hair. 

- Spray the ends of the hair with Kryolan Dark Red.

- Secure the hair style and any wispy pieces of hair with hairspray.

I made sure to have in depth step by steps so that I could get every aspect of my idea right. By writing a product list it ensured that I would not forget anything and everything would be prepared for the day. 

I got my model to fill out a consultation form because I had never worked on her before therefore I needed to know about her skin, the condition of her hair and also if she had any allergies. If anything came up during the application of makeup I would write it down on the sheet to keep everything up to date.

Above are my final images from my timed assessment. I managed to get everything finished on time. Being organised helped with this. The makeup is as I imagined. Very effortless with neutral colours and flawless skin. My favourite part is the hair. I love the 3D aspect of the plait, which creates texture against the sleek hair.

Skincare Final Images

Nars Skincare Final Images.

Skincare Test Look

For my skincare look that will be shot in the bath, I want the skin to be clear and fresh advertising that with Nars skincare you too could achieve flawless skin. I have used vaseline on the eyes to create a shine that will stay put in the water. I am using M.A.C Strobe Cream as the base for the makeup which will help create a fresh glow. The look is natural and hopefully the light reflecting on the water will pick up on the glow that I have tried to create. I am happy with this design and think it will work well with the concept I am trying to create. 

Skincare Facechart

The products used to create this look are as follows: 

- Kryolan Ultra Foundation. 

- M.A.C Pro Conceal in Light. 

- Bourjois Luminois Serum. 

- Illamasqua Translucent Powder.

- Illamasqua Pure Pigment in Incire. 

- Illamasqua Bare Lipstick. 

- Kiko Perfect Eyes Duo. 

- Kiko Pure Pigment in 10.

- M.A.C Mixing Medium Liner.

Step by Step: 

- Cleanse, tone and moisturise the skin. 

- Apply Bourjois serum to help create the dewy finish. 

- Use Kryolan Ultra Foundation and buff to create a flawless finish. 

- Conceal any imperfections and dark circles with M.A.C Pro Conceal. 

- Contour using the Kryolan Foundation Palette.

- Using Illamsqua Pure Pigment across the cheekbones to highlight. 

- Kiko Pure Pigment 10 mixed with M.A.C Mixing Medium Liner to create a eyeshadow. Apply Vaseline over the top to create the wet look. 

- Use Kiko Perfect Eye Pencil to create the contour around the eye and brow bone. 

- Use Illamasqua Bare Lipstick to finish. 

- Have a water spray on hand to create water droplets on the skin or use Glycerine dabbed over the face with a stipple brush.

Skincare moodboard

The idea behind my Skincare shoot for Nars is based on an underwater theme. I want the model to be shot underwater and with the droplets of water on the face to show an interpretation of washing the face. I want the makeup to be natural with neutral tones used. The skin will be dewy with lots of highlight used to create this effect. I want the skin to create this illusion of reflection that is also created when light hits water. I will use Vaseline again on the eyelids to help create more of a reflection. The hair will be scraped back off the face. Once it is wet and flowing in the bath it will be behind the shoulders so to not interfere with the makeup created.

High Summer Final Image

Nars High Summer inspired final image.

High Summer Test Look

The test for my High Summer look went well and I am happy with the design I have created. The lighting in the studio will pick up the highlight around the cheeks and the vaseline on the eyes quite well. I like the contrast between the eye colour and lip colour and think this works well and reflects on Nars love of colour

.

High Summer Facechart and Hairchart

The products used to create this look are as follows:

- Bourjois Happy Light Base Serum. 

- Kryolan Ultra Foundation.

- M.A.C Pro Conceal in Light. 

- Illamasqua Translucent Powder. 

- Illamasqua Cream Blusher in Laid.

- Illamasqua Blusher in Morale. 

- Makeup Revolution Highlighter.

- Crownbrush Eyeshadow in Orange. 

- Vaseline. 

- NO7 Lash Impact Mascara. 

- HD Brows Palette.

- M.A.C Lip Liner in Soar. 

- M.A.C Lipstick in Velvet Teddy.

- Cleanse, tone and moisturise the skin. 

- Apply Bourjois Serum to create a dewy base.

- Conceal any imperfections or dark circles with M.A.C Pro Conceal in Light. 

- Powder under the eye, around the nose and on the forehead avoiding to remove the dewy base created. 

- Use Illamasqua Cream Blusher to create the contour. 

- Illamasqua Blusher in morale on the cheeks of the apple to create a flush to the skin. 

- Highlight the cheekbone with Makeup Revolution highlighter.

- Using CrownBrush Eyeshadow in Orange, brush this across the lid and out. Once applied dab Vaseline over the top. 

- Brush the eyebrows and fill in with HD Brow Palette.

- Apply a few layers of mascara.

- Line the lips with M.A.C Soar and fill in with Velvet Teddy. 

The model I have chosen to use has short hair therefore I will create sleek hair so that the image has a high end feel to it. I also want to try out creating a five strand roll to create texture to see which finish works best for a high summer campaign.

I am happy with my final images created. The skin reflects the eyes nicely creating this summer mood. I decided to shoot on two different backgrounds so that I had more option when it came to deciding what I wanted my final image to be. I prefer the orange background as I think it brings the whole image together, tying in with the nails and eyes.