Chanel Makeup Starts the Fall Frenzy
Chanel Illusions d'Ombre, $36
Collection after collection, Chanel has been sweeping makeup lovers off their feet this year, and Fall may be the brand’s strongest season yet. Credit the combination of technological innovation and the impeccable taste of Peter Philips, Chanel’s global creative director for beauty — Chanel’s Fall offering doesn’t miss a beat.
First up: Chanel’s new cream eyeshadow formula, Illusions d’Ombre (literally “illusion of shadow” — though “illusion of light” might have been more accurate). These potted shadows have a spongy, resilient texture, and they apply unbelievably smoothly. Wear them lightly for a wash of shimmering color, or dramatically, for a sultry smoky eye. Each comes with a brush that’s flat (for applying shadow to the eyelid) and angled (for applying as eyeliner) — but you can also use your fingers. Mr. Philips admits that’s his preferred method.
And while Illusions d’Ombre are versatile on the eyes, you can also tap them on the center of your lower lip, to give your lipstick long-lasting, dimensional shine (try white Fantasme or peachy Emerveille).
Chanel nail polish, $25
If you’ve picked up any fashion magazine lately, you’ve already seen images of Chanel’s sensational, limited-edition Fall nail colors: amber-gold-green duochrome Peridot and warm-steel shimmer Graphite. Chanel often sets the trend for nail polish (just look at 2010′s Particuliere), but accept no imitation: no one delivers sparkle like Chanel.
Chanel Precision Eyelash Curler, $34
At long last, Chanel’s limited edition eyelash curler has made its way to American shores. True devotees of Chanel have been waiting months for the arrival of this elegant little beauty necessity with the irresistible logo. Sleek and lightweight, the Chanel lash curler is Japanese-made, and comes with two replacement pads. The pads are unusually cushiony, for a perfect curl that never crimps. These curlers are available in limited quantities, so don’t wait to make your purchase.
Aquarelles: Ombres Tissées Beiges, $75. Soft Touch Eyeshadow, $28.50. Stylo Yeux Waterproof, $29. Joues Contraste, $43. Rouge Coco Shine, $32. Nail polish, $25.
Select Neiman Marcus stores are also carrying Les Aquarelles, a boutique makeup collection — inspired by a 1920s watercolor portrait of Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel — designed for the haute couture show in Paris earlier this year.
The models were as airy, youthful, and beautiful as painted ballerinas, their makeup done in gorgeous pastel hues of soft pink, ivory, and grey.
Backstage at Chanel Haute Couture
To achieve this delicate effect, Peter Philips used the Ombres Tissées Beiges palette on the eyes, softly contoured with eyeshadow single Gris Exquis. He used Stylo Yeux Waterproof 10 Ebene to create an exaggerated geometric wing, making the models look especially doe-eyed.
Vitalumiere Aqua foundation gave the girls an opalescent complexion, and Mr. Philips created the perfect youthful flush with Joues Contraste 99 Rose Petale and 66 Pink Cloud.
Lips and nails were a romantic transparent pink, Rouge Coco Shine 58 Royallieu and Le Vernis 507 Tendresse.
Chanel Sublimage Cleanser, $95
Last, but certainly not least, aficionados of Chanel’s incomparable Sublimage skincare line will rejoice at the introduction of the new Sublimage Essential Comfort Cleanser, a cleansing gel that emulsifies into a soothing, silky oil as you massage it into your skin. It’s the beautiful first step in protecting, nourishing, and hydrating your skin.
These and other makeup delights are online and at your local Chanel counter now. But I wouldn’t wait too long to go see them for yourself — when it comes to limited edition items, Chanel regret can be very expensive.
Chanel makeup is available at NeimanMarcus.com and Neiman Marcus stores.
