James Boehmer, Artistry Global Director of the beauty brand NARS, visited Japan after working on the makeup for numerous brands at the Spring/Summer 2014 New York Fashion Week runway shows held in September. We spoke to him about Spring/Summer 2014 makeup trends and tips for finding the perfect look. Looking back at New York Fashion Week, what are your thoughts on the Spring/Summer 2014 beauty trends? The key to creating a unique look for next season is bold lip colors, especially orange, which looks fresh and popular. I used it in my Creatures of the Wind look, but many other brands, including Rag & Bone and DKNY, also incorporated orange lip colors. Bold colors are so fun to use. The trick is to keep the rest of your makeup minimal to highlight your lips. Use foundation, concealer, and powder to create a natural, natural look. One thing I learned from working with NARS founder and creative director François Nars for a long time is that makeup really stands out when the skin is beautiful, so I place great importance on the skincare process.
--Do you have any recommended products for beautiful skin?
NARSskin Optimal Brightening Concentrate brings out the skin's natural radiance, and NARSskin Aquagel Luminous Stick Oil-Free Moisturizer replenishes moisture. NARS skincare products only consist of nine basic items. They are designed primarily to prepare the skin to best utilize makeup, leaving it moisturized and radiant, and making makeup go on incredibly well.
--What role does makeup for shows play in your work?
As makeup artists, our job is not to follow trends, but to express the worldview of our fashion designer clients through makeup. Doing makeup for a show is no different from working on a magazine shoot, doing makeup for celebrities on the red carpet, or serving customers in a store. I listen to what kind of look the person wants and then translate that idea into makeup. My ultimate goal is for my makeup to make someone feel truly beautiful.
--What were your impressions of interacting with Japanese women at makeup events during your recent visit to Japan?
Japanese women are enthusiastic about skincare and have beautiful skin. However, I think they still tend to be shy when it comes to makeup. There are no rules to makeup, so don't take it too seriously. If you find something eye-catching, try colorful eyeshadow or lipstick, and go for it. Just like enjoying the colorful and beautiful nail art that Japanese women love.
There's no need to blindly follow trends. Makeup isn't mandatory, so if you don't want to wear makeup, that's fine. Just do what you find fun. With that attitude, you won't go wrong. I hope you'll find the makeup that makes you look your best.
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