Founder of NARS cosmetics François Nars’ has created a limited edition book combining his two passions in life - makeup and photography - to spectacular effect. Taking the before–and-after concept to the next level, François turns the lens on real women and men, revealing the powerful role of beauty in personal transformation.
Each subject was photographed over a period of four weeks in January 2010, before Nars turned to art director and longtime collaborator Fabien Baron, who also oversees the artistic vision of Nars advertising campaigns, to design the book. Nars quotes; “My hope for this book, and my makeup, is to give you the information and tools with which to express yourself in as many different ways as you can dream up."
The 'Before' and 'After' images appear next to each other for ease of comparison, and the transparent acetate overlays on the 'After' images provide details of products and techniques used enabling easy recreation at home. Makeup Your Mind: Express Yourself is divided into three sections: Play, Perfect and Polish. Each specialises on the specific stages of makeup wear as conceptualised by François, with an emphasis on the limitless possibilities of artistic expression. 'Play' focuses on experimentation with colour, texture and technique. 'Perfect' demonstrates how layers of colour and texture can be used to best complement the reader and shows how mastering a few simples methods can result in a beautiful finished face. 'Polish' meanwhile describes how to adapt one's makeup so it remains timeless as trends change and one's features and complexion mature.
To celebrate the new book, NARS have created three limited edition Makeup Your Mind: Express Yourself kits to focus on a particular facial feature to allow for maximum experimentation. Each contains the essentials for creating a signature look. Lips (£47.00) contains Roman Holiday Lipstick, Dolce Vita Velvet Matte Lip Pencil, Bangkok Pure Matt Lipstick and Orgasm Lip Gloss. Eyes (£65.00) contains Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base, Eye Shadow Palette, Larger Than Life Volumising Mascara and Eye Make Up Remover. Cheeks (my summer essential - £55.00) contains the invaluable Orgasm/Angelika Blush Duo, Copacobana Multiple (the best highlighter stick I've found) and the cult Laguna Bronzing Powder.
All available now from www.narscosmetics.co.uk
Love Laurel x
