For his Spring 2012 show, designer Phillip Lim was inspired by kites. The flowing, geometric characteristics found their way not only into the clothing, but the backstage beauty looks as well.
Odile Gilbert for Kérastase created a “windblown knot” hairstyle for the runway. Gilbert smoothed and straightened the hair by applying Kérastase Fibre Architecte, then blowing dry. Hair was then tied into a low, messy knot. Pieces from the crown were removed, and pinned sideways along the back of the head to give hair a wind swept appearance.
NARS National Makeup Artist Francelle took Lim’s kite inspiration one step further, creating a sweeping eyeshadow look that mimicked a kite-tail.
To get the look: Francelle prepped skin with PRO-PRIME Pore Refining Primer, and NARS Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturizer. Copacabana Illuminator was dabbed onto cheekbones, the bridge of the nose, and the bow of the lip to add a glowing effect. The inner lids of the eye were lined in NARS Larger Than Life Long-Wear Eyeliner in Rue Bonaparte.
The crease of the eyelids were highlighted with a mix of NARS Night Life Eyeshadow and the silver color from the NARS Paris Duo Eyeshadow Palette. Eyes were finished with six coats of NARS Larger Than Life Mascara. Lips were coated with a light layer of concealer, then brushed with NARS Gaeity Blush to add a girlish tone.
CND Nail Tech Angi Wingle created a subtle nail “stain” that let the natural color of the models’ nail beds shine through. The “raincoat of color” goes on as a transparent, natural nail enhancer, rather than an opaque color. To create the color, Angi added 4-5 drops of CND Raspberry Parfait to CND Speedy Topcoat.
While explaining the steps to get this look, I learned that the same process can be applied to old or dry nail polish. Just add a few drops of topcoat to renew the color!
The final hair/makeup/nail look:
Models preparing for a run-through
Designer Phillip Lim, mid-interview
While many of his creations are more minimalist than my personal taste, Lim’s Spring collection stood out to me for it’s use of sherbert-inspired shades, and colorful leathers.
It also season after season consistently features one of the best runway soundtracks of any show I’ve ever attended. For Spring, it was Jamie of The XX’s “Far Nearer”.
The raincoat that inspired this season’s nail art.
See the full photo set here
All Photos and Content ®2011-2012 Rachel Scroggins/The Greyest Ghost