In the 10th installment of our interview series "The Secrets of Shining Women," introducing women who excel in a variety of fields, including work and home, we feature singer Mai Kuraki. Kuraki, whose natural, radiant smile has remained unaffected since her debut, spoke about beauty and fashion. First, let's talk about makeup. Has your makeup routine changed since your debut? And how has it evolved? When I first debuted, I was practically makeup-free. I'd go straight to the studio after school, do my own hair, and snap a photo, which ended up on my CD jacket at the time (laughs). When I served as the image character for Kose's "ESPRIQUE" in 2009, it was fascinating to discover how makeup can change the way "my unknown self" changes. Nowadays, I sometimes change my makeup depending on my mood. How do you decide on the colors and atmosphere of your makeup for work and your days off? Like fashion, it often depends on how I feel that day. When I'm recording, I wear makeup that matches the mood of the song. For example, when I'm singing a ballad, I'll go for a soft, feminine look with baby pink nails, or when I'm singing a rock song, I'll wear a boyish outfit with military boots and strong eyeliner. When I'm off, I tend to wear more natural makeup.

--Any daily habits that you value for beauty and health?

I pay attention to what I eat. I actively incorporate healthy foods into my diet, and I pay attention to the order in which I eat, starting with vegetables. And I make sure to get enough sleep. I also started jogging for health reasons. I'm surprised at how well I've kept it up. Maybe the fact that I can do it at my own pace without forcing myself suits me.

--When you're tired from work, how do you relax?

I take a long bath. I might burn my favorite aroma and listen to music or watch a movie.

--Have your fashion sense changed since 15 years ago? If so, how have they changed? At first, I did my own makeup and costumes, looking at various magazines and imitating them through trial and error. Fashion that lifts your spirits is important when working in music, so now I try to wear what I want to wear. I also like casual clothes and often wear them, which often surprises people around me. --How do you decide on your live outfits? I look at the set list and stage plans and think about the kind of live performance I want. I consider various aspects, such as, "I want this color to be the base for this section," or "What kind of outfit will look good when I move around?" I also consult with the staff before deciding. --What are your favorite fashion brands? I don't have a particular favorite, but I often walk around various stores and shop. I also like vintage clothing stores. Lately, I've been hooked on Vivienne Westwood. When I'm off work, I wear either girly or rock outfits depending on my mood that day. --Where do you usually go shopping?

I've been going out a lot lately on my days off from tour. I also often go to Shibuya and Ginza in Tokyo.

--Is there anyone you look up to or look up to when it comes to fashion?

I don't have anyone in particular, but I often look up to Kate Moss, foreign models, and artists for fashion inspiration.

--Which woman do you admire?

Angelina Jolie. I admire her because she's so attractive, including her way of life as a woman.

--Finally, please give a message to your fans.

I've been able to continue this far thanks to the support of so many people. Thank you so much. I will continue to be grateful, and I will continue to deliver songs to you all filled with "love" and "hope." Thank you for your continued support!


[Kuraki Mai Profile]
Female singer born on October 28, 1982. Inspired by Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston, she began to strongly desire to become a singer in her second year of junior high school, making her own demo tapes. She began working toward her debut in earnest when she entered high school. In October 1999, at the tender age of 16, she made her US debut under the name "Mai K" with "Baby I Like." She then made her Japanese debut on December 8th of the same year with "Love, Day After Tomorrow," which immediately became a million-seller. Her subsequent first album, "delicious way," was a huge hit, selling over four million copies. Her clear voice, set to catchy songs, has garnered support from a wide audience, and all 40 singles she has released to date have ranked in the top 10 on the Oricon charts. In recent years, in addition to her work as a singer, she has also participated in the "Nantokashinakya! Project" as part of her social activism. She has visited Cambodia for inspections and actively provided support for reconstruction efforts in disaster-stricken areas. In 2014, her 15th anniversary since her debut, she released the theme song for the film "Kiki's Delivery Service," "Wake me up," as a DVD single, and on November 12th, she just released her two-disc best album, "Mai Kuraki BEST 151A -LOVE & HOPE-." The album includes 30 hit songs, including "Secret of my heart," which was used as the ending theme for the anime "Detective Conan." She is also currently on a nationwide best-of tour, which will conclude on December 6th at the Nippon Budokan in Tokyo with a special live concert to mark the culmination of her 15th anniversary and her 300th live performance.