shu uemura

Yuji Asano's Column vol.2

2012-03-16T19:29:00.002+09:00

Hi everyone, I start to feel a spring in the wind lately.
I created a look that represents spring in Japan for commons& sense magazine.
Theme came from of mamechiyo for shu uemura collaboration “kimono à la mode.”
mamechiyo used four spring flowers cherished in Japan—Fuji, Sakura, Botan, and Ume, matching each bloom to a women's beauty. I think TAO shows a sensitivity reminiscent of the poetic world of spring of each flowers. So beautiful and stylish.
Please enjoy.

Uchiide's Column vol.4 From Paris Fashion Week

2012-03-09T20:17:00.000+09:00

Dear all,
Here is makeup concept for the JCDC show today. There are two key elements to create the look for JCDC for this season.
As you can clearly see, I have brought a Gothic taste. Of course, it must link with the venue for this show. Another key is that there is one symbol in the collection - a black eagle.
They don't live in our world, but they do in JC's world. Before I started to create the look, I imagined what kind of wings they would have; their feathers must be a rich black, with a mysterious radiance. I wanted to reflect my imagination in the makeup look. Additionally, the look is created under the concept "less is more."

base make-up: To enhance the concept, I didn't want to gloss over the importance of skin care. I started with ultime8 oil and red:juvenus lotion, then created an amazing finish with red:juvenus emulsion. Sheer, fresh and flawless base make-up was created using a little illuminating moisture fluid foundation and I didn't use powder.

eyes: I used painted on the black paint liner with brush 10F to define the lash lines, then used cream eyeshadow black to contour the eye area as a base for eyeshadow. I picked two pressed eyeshadows: M black 990 and ME580 to create smoky eyes. To finish, I used cream eye shadow black and brush 10 to create a graphical design, like the surface of a bird wing. Finally, ultimate natural mascara (black) maintains a beautiful
curl on the lashes.

Cheeks: Nothing
Lips: After treatment with DP lip balm, I simply applied point concealer for a nude look.

Thanks
Uchiide

shu uemura TSUSHIN by Tiffany Godoy vol. 20 A Flash News from Paris Fashion Week

2012-03-09T20:16:00.002+09:00

Tsumori Chisato Collection Backstage report
March 3 marked the mid-way point of Paris fashion week. Uchiide, who had started with week with the up and coming brand Aganovich, Martine Sitbon's iconic favorite Rue de Mail, was showing no signs of fashion week fatigue back stage at Tsumori Chisato in the gilded Hotel Westin setting not far from the Louvre.

Uchiide's Make-up:
"I had a very clear image of the woman for this show- a girl enjoying her holiday at a ski resort. There are three keys to create this look:

Base make-up and skin care
Skin should have a transparent, fresh feeling so pre-make-up skin care is very important. I started with ultime8, then new skin care essence that will be launched in autumn this year after lotion. Using illuminating moisture fluid foundation provides radiance on the skin.

Graphical eyes.
Square and straight black eyeliner creates a modern attitude. It also references the graphical patterns that appear on the clothes.


Healthy and natural glow This health glow that skin takes on after coming back from cold place. I picked two shades from the upcoming Chocola-donna collection for cheeks. Using the framboisier shade on the cheek bone, then blended with apricot. The make-up should be very simple to avoid a mess, instead it is about enhancing the beautiful palette of the clothing. "

The Collection
Tsumori's ever-charming world--also on display around town at Ladurée for a delectable macaron collaboration- took a trip to the slopes of Biarritz. This chic après-ski themed outing had a punkish twist with a neon lit runway and models donning spray painted hair to match. Looks featured retro photo prints of snow covered landscapes, ski lifts and ski poles embroidered across colorful color blocking backgrounds, and platform shoes with ice skating blade shaped soles.

Backstage
Patricia Lee, the winner of the shu uemura beauty art make-up competition 2011 in North America, assisted Uchiide and the French team.
Post-show designer Tsumori Chisato and her team which included stylist John Hullum celebrated their efforts with Chisato's sakura flavored macarons and a toast!

Tiffany Godoy
Fashion Editor and Creative Director Tiffany Godoy has been called "an international style insider" by style.com. She contributes to style.com, V, T Magazine, Spur, Vogue Nippon, and blogs online for Colette and Droptokyo. She is the author of Style Deficit Disorder, (Chronicle Books, 2007), Japanese Goth (Universe, 2009), and has hosted fashion TV programs aired in Japan and globally. Tiffany is the editor-in-chief of The Reality Show, and along with art director Tomoyuki Yonezu makes up the creative unit Erotyka.
www.therealityshow.jp

A very special thanks to Mr. Ludovic Engrand, shu uemura PR manager in France.

shu uemura TSUSHIN by Tiffany Godoy vol. 19A Flash News from Paris Fashion Week

2012-03-07T10:44:00.002+09:00

Rue Du Mail A/W 2012- make-up by Kakuyasu Uchiide
Rue Du Mail's designer Martine Sitbon and her partner the art director Marc Ascoli are Parisian fashion world mainstays. Their presentations always pack in the crème de la crème of the fashion world. This season's show, on February 29th at *5 rue de Mail, was no exception. The top tier team included: shoes by Christian Louboutin, music by Frederic Sanchez, the most in demand models like Marte Mei van Haaster., and Joan Smalls, Eugene Souleiman on hair, and shu uemura's international director Kakuyasu Uchiide on make-up. Backstage Uchiide explained the look he created in response to Sitbon’s request for an androgynous beauty:

"Up until now, I have created "imperfec" make-up for Rue Du Mail, this season was the first time I went for "perfection". Perfection in beauty looks elegant and feminine, but Rue Du Mail's essence is rooted in a "rock" and "Paris chic" spirit. The beauty look is a balance of all of these elements. I focused on two points that I feel are important for autumn/winter.

Perfect canvas- flawless, sheer and fresh looking base make-up. It reminds me of the importance of skin care for creating a perfect canvas for make-up. I started with a supreme cleansing oil "ultime8" Followed by new skin essence launching this autumn. This creates a healthy looking natural base for illuminating moisture fluid foundation.


Brown tone on the eyes- Recently, I often use brown instead of black. Black looks too severe. I selected the darkest brown shade from the upcoming shu uemura autumn / winter mode make-up "chocolate-donna" collection, and then a vivid orange for the eyes.

Mixing the two together and creating perfect gradation underneath the eyes. As a base, I also applied painting liner M brown to the root of lash lines.

Other points: I applied light shading to the side of the face using glow on amber M 750 to create shading. For lips a hint of color rouge unlimited beige 910 for the lips followed by depsea hydrability moisturizing lip balm for a natural looking but highly glossy lip.”

tokyo brow station

2012-03-03T13:33:00.000+09:00

shu uemura’s exclusive one stop station for brow styling opening
- dawn of a new era, Omotesando Beauty Boutique renewal -

An expert in beauty, shu uemura proudly announce the opening of the brand new "tokyo brow station" an exclusive service station for brow styling. The sensational first station opens at Omotesando beauty boutique, brand's international flagship store in Tokyo.

"I want to create a space where every woman can freely touch, look and enjoy the cosmetics."
Mr.Shu Uemura

Since the opening in 1983, Omotesando beauty boutique, shu uemura's international flagship store made continuous evolutions and created sensation to the cosmetics retail.

Realizing Mr. Uemura's dream to create "an open studio", the store became the place to offer the customers to freely explore wide ranges of professional make-up color in an open tester environment, allowing every woman the chance to find their own perfect look.

Now in 2012, the legendary beauty boutique will mark a new era with the brand new opening of the "tokyo brow station."

The pioneer of the beauty mastery, shu uemura brings a sensation to the Omotesando beauty boutique.

Break the boundaries of the creative expression space.

one stop station for the eyebrow styling
changing your brows
enhances your total impression

Experience shu uemura's expert in eye make-up with the exclusive total brow service.

Represented by the well-known "naginata" shape hard formula, shu uemura always sought the way to expand the professional service for the ultimate beauty.

Now, with this ground breaking service of the total brow service, shu uemura brings the fusion of the art, expertise and beauty to the next level. Your brows will be transformed to natural yet stunning new look to enhance your mesmerizing allure in every expression. Find the best shape, color and design and change your eyebrow - a last piece to complete your total beauty.

Omotesando beauty boutique also introduce the iPad application for the visual effective counceling. You can enjoy the exclusive service in 3 language, Japanese, English and Chinese.

shu uemura's international flagship store, now brings the beauty service to the next level.

Uchiide's Column vol.3From Paris Fashion Week

2012-03-02T19:36:00.000+09:00

Hi, it’s Uchiide here reporting backstage at the Aganovich show at Paris Fashion Week. It’s the first time shu uemura has worked with Aganovich and working with Nana Aganovich and Brooke has been amazing.

I believe that natural and simple hair and makeup best matches conceptual clothes like those from Aganovich. It's like a Zen feeling. A simple and natural look requires perfect preparation beforehand. I started with the new supreme cleansing oil "ultime8" and also used the amazing brand new essence launching this autumn to create the perfect canvas. To create natural, glowing skin using the least amount of foundation I turned to "illuminating moisture fluid foundation" with brush 18 goat. pressed eye shadow beige M 813 was used for the eyes to tone and I missed this with glow on M 521 and M 750 for light shading that still looks healthy. rouge unlimited M 910 for lips perfected the look. I also created one clown look, which was the signature of this brand. To me, it's a symbol of contrast and contradiction and it really let me see the string creative spirit of this fashion house.

All photographs by Axl Jansen

What’s hot from North America?

2012-03-01T16:38:00.002+09:00

Patricia Lee, the winner of our 2011 make-up competition in North America, demonstrates step by step how to create a natural look and spring look using celestial garden from shu uemura's S/S mode make-up collection.

natural make-up

2012 spring look

Patricia's message for Paris Fashion Week!
"I'm all packed and ready for my adventure to Paris for Fashion Week! I'm beyond excited to be working alongside the incredibly talented Kakuyasu Uchiide. This is a dream come true! I can't wait to find out about the make-up looks that I'll get to create under his direction. Don't worry, I'll be sure to share my experiences with you!"
Patricia Lee

mamechiyo à la mode for shu uemura vol.3

2012-03-01T14:22:00.003+09:00

*FUJI –藤* Willowy wisteria Japanese wisteria, with its delicate light purple dainty and fragrant flowers, holds a special place in Japanese tradition. The long-living wisteria vine lends a meaning of endurance interpreted as modesty; Fuji is a willowy flower that holds its volume but sways in the wind; like a woman who loves to be flamboyant and has a supple mind. Adding the yellow gave it a pop feel, adding a new dimension to the message of this flower: “intoxicating in love." I aimed to express the beauty of the FUJI using the coquettish attractiveness of contemporary women.		©2011Nanase Kotono-cwctokyo.com
"The moon will shine over the flowers in bloom just a little longer." ~ Basho Matsuo, Japanese poet (1644-1694)

(right) UV under base mousse SPF 30 PA+++ beige
mamechiyo's vision of the beauty of women reveals the flamboyant and supple mind of wisteria together with a pop yellow. This airy soft mousse in an ultra light tone intoxicates your skin with a thin veil of spring. 65g, color: beige 　(色玉)

(left) high performance balancing cleansing oil advanced formula
Welcome the coming season adorned with the floral beauty of wisteria. The delicate texture cleanses skin while keeping the natural balance of moisture. Petal soft skin is enveloped in a romantic sensuous aroma for a cleansing experience. 450ml

for all skin conditions

*SAKURA –桜* Cherry blossoms Sakura that represents the ultimate image of Japan, small delicate blooms hold the essence of beauty-swaying in the wind, falling, softly covering the ground in prettiness. Just like gently catching the butterfly's wing, inviting you to the dream world. Meaning "purity" and "elegance" mamechiyo adds a gentle smile, and mixes in stripes for a more contemporary vision of sakura. “butterfly in my hand – as if it were a spirit. unearthly, unsubstantial” ~ Buson Yosa, Japanese poet (1716-1783)		©2011Nanase Kotono-cwctokyo.com
"Just like the butterfly in my hand – as if there were a spirit. Unearthly, unsubstantial, like gently catching a butterfly that had been perched on a flower. You are transported into a fuzzy dream world." mamechiyo

(right) UV under base mousse SPF 30 PA+++ pink
Celebrate the cute attractiveness and undeinable elegant beauy of sakura metamorphosing with the pink stripes of mamechiyo's modern world. This soft mousse with soft pale pink petal tones covers the skin softly inviting in a dreamy and rosy complexion. 65g, color: pink

(left) fresh pore clarifying gentle cleansing oil
mamechiyo's sweet dreamy vision reveals the beauty of sakura in full bloom as they sway in the wind. This limited-edition fresh cleansing oil gently melts on your skin and washes away pore concerns. The graceful sakura scent invites you into the fuzzy dream of spring with a simple cleansing experience. For smooth and refined skin. 450ml

for pore concerns

*BOTAN –牡丹* Peony Beautiful and elegant in every scene and position, the peony is a strong metaphor for women's natural beauty. Meaning magnificence, and noble, this flower has gorgeous petals layered in richness and beauty. Befit for a king, they speak of magnificence and nobility. Having inner fortitude and dignity, they are also full of flexibility and the rich sensitivity of women. After the full blooms of spring, Botan celebrate the energy of the fresh, young shoots of summer, in a natural green that's not full of emotion, but remains fresh and neutral. Here mamechiyo gives a contemporary edge to that vision. “Standing, she is a peony. Sitting, a tree peony. Walking, a lily.” ~ anonymous		©2011Nanase Kotono-cwctokyo.com
"To have a strong core,but to have rich sensitivity and flexibility of mind. The color of green in kimono language is neutral. Not movement nor stillness, not feminine not masculine … just like the young fresh leaves after the spring flowers blooms." mamechiyo

(right) UV under base mousse SPF30 PA+++ BB beige
mamechiyo opens the door to a new world of elegance and playfulness with motifs and colors expressing the magnificence and strength of modern women. BB beige for petal soft skin and inspired by the multi-layered rich petals of the peony with the fresh energy of young green leaves. This limited-edition BB beige lightens a dull complexion for fresh and naturally light skin. 65g, color: BB beige

(left) cleansing beauty oil premium A/O advanced formula
The captivating attraction of peonies with their elegant and noble beauty, mix of joy and happiness in colors that show a rich sensitivity and flexibility of mind. This limited-edition A/O advanced formula, cleans skin with its mild texture and comforts with a texture that equally refreshes and moisturizes. 450ml

for aging concerns

*UME –梅* Plum blossom Ume is the flower of the plum tree, representing a fascinating beauty filled with elegance even in the severe coldness of winter. mamechiyo embellishes her design with the purple of the Japanese traditional arrow pattern used in the kimono worn by the younger generations, to emphasize the Japanese unique traditions from a new point of view, expressing a cool stylishness and unique character fusing with cool impression of purple color. Tradition meets cool in this borderless world with a unique character and sensibility. “The fragrant plum blossom beckons winter to return, bringing chilly days.” Basho Matsuo, Japanese poet (1644-1694)		©2011Nanase Kotono-cwctokyo.com
"Using the arrow pattern together with the cold color of purple, a colorful characters is brought out." mamechiyo

(right) UV under base whitefficient brightening mousse SPF30 PA++
A mixture of contemprary stylishess and the alluring beauty of the plum blossom, this limited-edition light pink purple brightening mousse achieves translucent rosy petal skin, alluring like the plum blossom buds, waiting in winter's wings to bloom in spring. 50g, color: pink purple

(left) whiteffcient clear brightening gentle cleansing oil
Achieve fascinating beauty with the determined mind of the plum blossom, this limited-edition brightening cleansing oil swiftly cleans skin and removes impurities and make-up. Skin appears less dull, smoother, brighter and more clarified. 450ml

for whitening concerns

Foundation Compact Case
for glowing-fit lasting foundation
Expressing a cuteness—a world rich and dazzling and overflowing with flowers, inviting you to enjoy your ultra femininity; enjoy just being a girl. mamechiyo used flowers in different colors and from different seasons for a continuous bloom. she hopes this conveys the strength and positive energy of life. A limited edition compact case cherishes your make-up time, recommended to refill glowing-fit lasting foundation.

Yuji Asano's Column vol.1

2012-02-29T20:38:00.000+09:00

Hi everyone, It's really cold these days, but how is everything going with you?

My hands were paralyzed with cold the other day for the first time in a long time. I have rarely felt that way recently thanks to the development of new materials for heat-generating clothing, etc. However, nighttime beach in midwinter was ridiculously cold...cold beyond imagination. I was impressed in a strange way with a sense of awe against nature and felt that there is a limit to what humans can do.

I turned on the heat at full-throttle in the car on the way home and waited patiently for a while until my body warmed up. After a while, the entire face felt a tingling sensation, sore, and itchy. I pulled down the visor mirror to take a look at my face. My lips that turned purple are gradually regaining the original color. I was relieved and came to appreciate the modern amenity thinking that human beings are really something.

At that time I recalled the time when long-lasting lipsticks were very popular in Japan about 20 years ago. Despite many requests for "shu uemura to sell such lipsticks", Mr. Shu Uemura said, "Lipsticks should come off easily because you can take a look at your face in the mirror, check the physical condition, and assess your complexion each time. That's what I call 'personal maintenance'." I was deeply impressed by his advocating an 'essential discipline' through make-up.

There are lessons such as tea ceremony, flower arrangement, and calligraphy in Japan. They are not intended for skill acquisition alone, but also aiming at learning good manners and becoming full of grace through the lessons. I believe such practice was very common for traditional Japanese lessons. Mr. Shu Uemura wanted to convey the message through cosmetics and beauty. Therefore, while advocating the cosmetics and hassle-free techniques to turn anyone beautiful quickly, he considered them as laziness and cautioned people according to time and circumstances.

I believe you are busy, but how about taking time to gracefully dressing and grooming yourself at times?

mamechiyo à la mode for shu uemura vol.2what’s hot in China

2012-02-29T13:57:00.000+09:00

Beauty bloomed in China as four talented make-up artists for shu uemura demonstrated four different make-up looks, each inspired by spring flowers cherished in Japan.

mamechiyo for shu uemura "kimono à la mode"

2012-02-28T15:54:00.001+09:00

Art meets beauty in shu uemura's 2012 artist collaboration series with celebrated Japanese contemporary kimono artist mamechiyo. A master
of contemporary beauty, Japanese make-up artist and pioneer Mr.Shu Uemura brought a state-of-the-art approach to beauty. Following Mr.Shu Uemura's guiding philosophy—"art is a way of life"—shu uemura and mamechiyo come together
to celebrate the beauty of a Japanese spring with a special collection of emblematic cleansing oils and UV under base mousses each with its own poem of sweet spring blooms.

fleurs du printemps,

take a step into a retro world

enjoy the poetry of seasonal blooms

dress yourself up in spring flowers and butterflies will come and rest on you!

For this special-edition UV under base mousse and cleansing oil, mamechiyo used four spring flowers cherished in Japan—Fuji, Sakura, Botan, and Ume. Matching each bloom to a women's beauty, a feeling of spring wraps itself around you with a sensitivity reminiscent of the poetic world of spring. mamechiyo invites you to journey between retro and contemporary worlds like butterflies. A new world where fun and color bring happiness and the sensibility of spring blooms, full of hope and a playful beauty.

who is mamechiyo??

Extracting the essence of tradition and re-creating a contemporary new style with edge, mamechiyo is a modern kimono artist, an enchantress of the kimono. From childhood, she dreamed of becoming an apprentice geisha. She started to work in second-hand shops to pursue her attraction to kimono. Fascinated with reviving antiques and adding the essence of the 21st century, mamechiyo creates high fashion kimono for women who adore fun and beauty. mamechiyo has always been fascinated by the intricate and delicate patterns used in traditional kimono and always imagined how the work of old kimono craftsmen would translate to modern times. What kind of creations are possible?

mamechiyo's world is one that is free and infinite, depending on your creativity; your world will spread from the past to the present and into the future bringing a life full of dreams and the spirit of contemporary Tokyo to your universe.

profile 1969　　born in Kanda, Tokyo
1998　　started mamechiyo
2000　　opened antique kimono shop in Nishi-Ogikubo
2002　　starting original brand mamechiyo modern

official web site: http://www.mamechiyo.jp/

Celebrating this beautiful collaboration with charismatic kimono artist mamechiyo, special campaign site is now open with fun application, dress up your photos with beautiful icons of flowers and butterflies and create your own mamechiyo icon and share with your friends on facebook or twitter.
http://www.shu-uemura.co.jp/brand/mamechiyo_campaign/

Uchiide’s column vol.2

2012-02-27T12:08:00.000+09:00

Hi everyone, Uchiide here.

Here's a look behind the scenes of a shoot with French art magazine. Mixte. For this project, I had the honor of working with Eric Maillet, the celebrated photographer, in putting together a feature for the 2012 spring summer edition of Mixte. For this shoot, last season's rock'n roll look takes on a new tone for spring/summer, with pastels giving a more soft and feminine touch. I think the hair artist Yusuke's work is fabulous!

Sneak Preview

2012-02-18T13:31:00.000+09:00

On January 27, shu uemura general manager worldwide Vincent Nida and international PR manager Harumi Muraoka shot a scene in Tokyo for the up-coming movie "Helter Skelter,"directed by Mika Ninagawa. The movie is due for release on July 14, 2012. Story is based on Japanse Manga "Helter Skelter" by Kyoko Okazaki.

From left, Vincent Nida, Harumi Muraoka, Mika Ninagawa, and Schindler a friend of Mr Nida.

shu uemura TSUSHIN by Tiffany Godoy vol.18 Spring arrivals at Sister Tokyo

2012-02-17T15:12:00.001+09:00

The hot spot for the Tokyo's trendiest fashion fans is hidden away on a small back street in the middle of bustling Shibuya. The building Fake Tokyo houses the colorful street inspired Candy and the more demure Sister upstairs. Sister's manager Fuyuri Kobayashi and director/buyer Yumi Nagao have been called it-girls

more times than they can remember. The ultra-stylish duo influence the look of many a young Japanese fashion fan via their online shop, seasonal campaigns, and blog where they-and a never-ending supply of cute shop girls-model the boutique's latest must-haves.Starting out four years ago as an underground vintage haven, more recent selections emphasize young up-and-coming Japanese designers like Sachio Kawasaki, Malcolm Guerre, and Sister's ornate original leg wear brand; and international designers like milliner Piers Atkinson, accessory brand Erickson Beamon. While the winter chill may still be in the air, the spring selections have just hit the floor.

Fuyuri Kobayashi

Yumi and Fuyuri give us a spring preview modeling some looks they put together exclusively for shu uemura Tsushin. The now look: "Girly, and feminine. Color is a must. Retro patterns, feminine cuts." The favorite designers: "Japanese designer Akira Naka is our most popular. Carven is also a favorite now."

Yumi Nagao

On the horizon: "We are really going to go for edgier styling for the blog and selections for the store. We will buy more unique vintage pieces. We have been a little more commercial and easy to understand since moving to this more visible location two years ago. But we feel a need to be more creative and hopefully this will inspire girls to experiment and go a bit bolder with their own fashion choices."

http://sister-tokyo.com/ (international orders accepted)

Tiffany Godoy
Fashion Editor and Creative Director Tiffany Godoy has been called "an international style insider" by style.com. She contributes to style.com, V, T Magazine, Spur, Vogue Nippon, and blogs online for Colette and Droptokyo. She is the author of Style Deficit Disorder, (Chronicle Books, 2007), Japanese Goth (Universe, 2009), and has hosted fashion TV programs aired in Japan and globally. Tiffany is the editor-in-chief of The Reality Show, and along with art director Tomoyuki Yonezu makes up the creative unit Erotyka.
www.therealityshow.jp

Uchiide's Column vol.1

2012-02-09T18:18:00.008+09:00

Welcome to the shu uemura blog and my column!

I’ve had lots of questions about life as the international artistic director of the brand. I’ll answer them as much as I can, so bear with me!

This time, I’ll let you in on my business trips abroad. I am often asked how many days a year I spend abroad—someone said it seemed that I spent more than half a year jet-setting off overseas. In reality, I spent more than a quarter of 2011 overseas, visiting other countries in Asia, as well as Canada and Europe. True jet-setters spend far more time away from home.

From the end of this month, I will go to Paris for Fashion Week. I visited some attaché du press with my book to get a fashion show in Paris 10 years ago now. Working in the fashion industry was one of my dreams when I was younger, so I always get a real thrill from working with fashion designers. It is a real privilege that I get to see the new collection earlier. So many times I’ve gotten inspiration from fashion.

with Hong Kong team with model 于笑

From tsumori chisato backstage in 2011

From backstage of JC de castelbajac with shu uemura team

In my next column, I will introduce my work with fashion designers.

Until next time …

shu uemura TSUSHIN by Tiffany Godoy vol.17 Winter nails with manicurist Hiro

2012-02-09T18:14:00.001+09:00

Paris-based Hiro started her career in Tokyo reaching cult status with her over-the-top salon Vulgar in Harajuku in the 90’s. After shifting between Tokyo and Paris over the last few years, her edgy take on nails won her a place at acclaimed artist agency Jed Root in 2011. She does Anna Dello Russo’s nails for fashion week, has her own nail accessory collection Etincelle, and has also collaborated on a fine jewelry nail accessory collection with Tasaki. She is kicking 2012 off with a bang- we caught up with her for tea at Paris’ opulent Café de la Paix to hear all about it and find out what’s hot for nails this winter.

from numero

What are you working on at the moment?
I am working with Etincille and shoots. Wait, let me check it was two editorials with Italian Vogue, Figaro, Italian Vogue, V magazine, W with Edward Enninful-that was fun, Stiletto from Italy, a Givenchy ad, Dior ad. And Wallpaper, and what else…and now I am getting ready to shoot the images for my new Etincelle collection. It’s an accessory collection for nails made with real gold, and real diamonds. I went from New York Vulgar to elegant when I came to Paris! It’s sold only in nail salons in Japan for the moment.

Image courtesy Etincelle

What are your other must have tools?
It’s really anything and everything. In Japan you can find anything at Tokyu Hands. But I really like to find unexpected items so my nails look different. I use things make-up artists use, or watercolor paint, or try to create interesting textures. Recently I used sand, mixed it with polish. I also love to use an airbrush. Also love gold leaf. I don’t use a nail scissor, but a regular scissor, which cuts differently. I really try to match the theme of the shoot. That is my job. For shoots I also make my own colors, I have been doing it for years because there have never been the exact colors I have wanted.

At the moment, what colors or shapes do you like for winter?

I like strong colors, dark colors for winter-they stand out. I like short nails too. Chocolate, kind of dark azuki bean red, a variation on black, or red. If you just do a black it is too rock, you can do shine, or matte, but if you make it a more unusual dark color it looks really great. I like glitter too, dark with a shine. I love shu’s P dark green 595, and P dark black 997 is really cool, P dark blue 696.

Do you have any tips for hand care during the winter months?
After a bath or shower use lotion and then cream instead of just putting on a hand cream. You can even use the same lotion and cream you use for your face.

The key is to when your body is warm, follow the regime and finish by putting plastic bags on your hands then go and watch some TV, best if once you can do this once a week. If you apply hand cream then it just lasts for the moment, but this is long-term care.

BAZAAR Japan, photography:Miezaki Takashi

http://etincelle-hiro.com/
http://www.jedroot.com

Tiffany Godoy
Fashion Editor and Creative Director Tiffany Godoy has been called "an international style insider" by style.com. She contributes to style.com, V, T Magazine, Spur, Vogue Nippon, and blogs online for Colette and Droptokyo. She is the author of Style Deficit Disorder, (Chronicle Books, 2007), Japanese Goth (Universe, 2009), and has hosted fashion TV programs aired in Japan and globally. Tiffany is the editor-in-chief of The Reality Show, and along with art director Tomoyuki Yonezu makes up the creative unit Erotyka.
www.therealityshow.jp

art meets beauty

2012-02-07T18:39:00.000+09:00

mamechiyo fuses with shu uemura for Spring 2012
shu uemura celebrates a beauty of Japanese spring flowers with mamechiyo whose world is full of playfulness and sensitivity from contemporary Tokyo for 2012!

mamechiyo is a Japanese modern kimono artist who has taken the fashion and art world by storm with her kimono designs. shu uemura came together with her artistic sprits for special-edition UV under base mousse and cleansing oil for spring of 2012.
mamechiyo used four spring flowers cherished in Japan—Fuji, Sakura, Botan, and Ume. Matching each bloom to a women’s beauty, a feeling of spring wraps itself around you with a sensitivity reminiscent of the poetic world of Japanese spring.

A beautiful PR launch took place in Shanghai 1933 Life House Gallery on 11th Jan, invited media from TV, newspaper, magazine. shu uemura China unveiled mamechiyo collection and throwing kimono fashion show. Kimono teacher Ms. Jian Yi Qiu also taught media friends the tips of professional kimono ware and DIY personalized belt, caught the media’s attention.

For more photos, please visit below link
http://www.flickr.com/photos/72424747@N06/sets/72157628920720275/

shu uemura TSUSHIN by Tiffany Godoy vol.16shiatsu beauty support from Paris

2012-01-31T17:56:00.001+09:00

The first stop on our now global tour of all that is Japanese chic and cool brings us to Paris!

It’s the week of the Fall /Winter 2012 menswear collections followed the Spring/Summer 2012 couture collections, and a whole lot of parties in between. In the day you try to look your best, but after a few nights of celebration it’s not always easy to keep your face looking fresh.

Luckily a few days ago I stumbled upon a little oasis in the 6th arrondissement called Assa shiatsu. Owner Mariko Hirakawa is a fashion veteran, previously putting in time at Yohji Yamamoto. After 15 years in Paris she still hadn’t found that perfect place to relax and regenerate, so she started Assa in May 2011. The “well-being salon” offers shiatsu, reflexology, and “visage” facial massage.

Classical music welcomes you into the space that is housed in a picture perfect Parisian 18th century building; graphic black Kyoto “machiya” style wood panels contrast the rustic walls and high ceilings. The three private massage room’s feature custom made organic towels from the Imabari region in Japan (know for its high quality towels) in soothing grey and brown tones.

“Shiatsu is one of the secrets of Asian well being and long life,” Hirakawa says “and why many people seem to look so young. By improving circulation and releasing　serotonin for relaxation, it supports anti-aging.” Sign me up.

I selected the 30-minute “visage” course. Soft circular motions around the entire face gradually with added pressure was finished off with a head massage. As I sipped my tea after the massage I felt energized, my eyes more clear, that I had found a new type of beauty support in shiatsu, and a little dose of Japan in Paris.

Assa, 8 rue Christine 75006 Paris
www.assa-spa.fr

Photo by Tiffany Godoy
Photo by Alexia S

shu uemura TSUSHIN by Tiffany Godoy vol.15Elli-Rose’s Beauty Trends for Winter

2012-01-30T16:04:00.000+09:00

Model Elli-Rose van Cliffe is one of the most high-profile girls on the Tokyo fashion scene. In addition to being a regular in top-selling gyaru glossy Vivi, she appears in Nylon Japan and Elle Girl among a slew of others and is a personality on TV and in commercials. By night she is known for spinning thumping techno as the in-demand DJ Van Cliffe.D.

This girl about town sits down with shu tsushin to share what’s keeping her busy these days and some must-know Shibuya and gyaru winter beauty trends.

What have you been up to lately?
I had a beautiful Christmas in England with my family. Traditional Christmas dinners and many presents! Spending time with my English grandparents, who I don't see so often, was beautiful.

I spent a quiet new year.
My first job of the year was in Hong Kong-I appeared in a fashion show, DJd, did a photo shoot with a culture magazine, and had interviews with the HK TV media talking about my career in Tokyo as a model and DJ. Everyone was sooo sweet and kind. I would love to go back!

Aside from modeling, are you working on any new projects?
I'm working now on my new mixes. Planning on making a disco house mix and a techno mix. Also working with Volcom, planning on creating my own line with them! I am so excited!

You are a star and insider in the Shibuya and gyaru fashion scene, what’s the scoop on recent fashion and beauty trends?

Red and wine-red colors have always been in when going for a darker look.
Matte eye shadows too. I personally like to keep it matte. Black liquid eyeliners for a cat eye look. Classic pin-up style is a forever look. And eye lashes!!!! They love them long, and with volume!

What are the make-up looks that you are into at the moment-any personal obsessions for winter?

The same as the Shibuya girls. I'm especially interested in the purple lips for my night life. I use a brown liquid eyeliner for day wear as it gives me more of a natural look. Brick color matte eye shadow works with any style. Always keep my skin looking fresh.

What is your skin care regime?

Always take my make-up off, even I'm about to fall dead of exhaustion into bed.
Cleanse off with oil remover and face wash. Then toner, moisturizing lotion, and moisturizing cream. When I feel my skin is tired I apply a boost syrup after the toner.

What are some of your lifestyle musts-sleep, exercise, baths, specific foods?

Lots of sleep definitely. Drink a lot of water. Take vitamins everyday- Vitamin C, B2, and a multi-vitamin. Eat healthy food such as quinoa, wheat, granola, fish, vegetables, fruit and nuts. I try to use stairs more than the elevator. Do a lot of walking.

Do you have a soundtrack for relaxing and "wellness"?

Bossa nova, instrumentals, jazz, slow disco. You can have a listen to some mixes on my site www.vancliffed.com.

ameblo.jp/elli-rose/

Tiffany Godoy
Fashion Editor and Creative Director Tiffany Godoy has been called "an international style insider" by style.com. She contributes to style.com, V, T Magazine, Spur, Vogue Nippon, and blogs online for Colette and Droptokyo. She is the author of Style Deficit Disorder, (Chronicle Books, 2007), Japanese Goth (Universe, 2009), and has hosted fashion TV programs aired in Japan and globally. Tiffany is the editor-in-chief of The Reality Show, and along with art director Tomoyuki Yonezu makes up the creative unit Erotyka.
www.therealityshow.jp

whitefficient 2012“+0 sec efficient whitening*1”a completely new approach to whitening

2012-01-25T12:51:00.000+09:00

An expert in beauty, shu uemura unveils the simplest way to whitening with our two signature products, UVUB mousse and cleansing oil. Experience our innovative regime of whitening and achieve results effortlessly, without extra steps.

new instant brightening ultra-light mousse bases efficient as a whitening essence*²

Since its sensational debut in 1990, UV under base mousse has gained extraordinary popularity and credibility from celebrities and women around the world.

Now, the UV under base is reborn to bring your beauty to another new level—bridging the advantages of shu uemura’s “light as air” UVUB mousse with clinically tested whitening efficacy and an instant brightening effect and clarified, even skin.

proven results. instantly whiter. clinical test result after 4 weeks of use

blue iridescent pearl for instant brightening efficacy

shu uemura has developed a pink-purple shade with “trans-glow complex” which consists of iridescent pearl that emits “pure blue light” for an anti-yellow tone effect, and an inner-glow-agent to add rosiness.

shu uemura’s iconic cleansing oil reborn.
efficient whitening starts with cleansing*¹

shu uemura integrates its expertise in cleansing oil with the most advanced technology to achieve a brightening effect through cleansing.

Use in the morning and the evening to remove make-up and prevent the accumulation of old skin cells that contain melanin and make skin dull.

proven efficacy*³

remove accumulated melanin for skin that is bright

Removing melanin-filled aged cells, which act to dull the complexion, is the first step in whitening care. Fortified with the Ultimate Removal System, our latest development, this lightly textured formula effectively removes accumulated melanin*¹ and heavy make-up.

Washes away dullness

The “Ultimate Removal System” provides 86% higher removability*⁴
aterproof mascara vs previous brightening cleansing oil with three original botanical oils for optimal removal of make-up and impurities.

*1 : +0 sec: whitening is achieved without having to add any extra steps to your daily skincare routine. efficient whitening: shu uemura whitefficient routine
*2 : brightening mousse has whitening efficacy to bare skin
*3 : consumer test on Asian women using the product twice a day for 4 weeks.
*4 : in vitro test.

sneak preview of the shu uemura X TAO shooting

2012-01-20T21:05:00.001+09:00

Starting off the commemorable first page of 2012 shu uemura blog, we’d like to share the backstage scenes of shu uemura’s very key skincare product that will be launched this year.

Welcoming TAO, our new beauty ambassador, the shooting took place in the early January at the studio in Daikanyama - Tokyo’s one of the most stylish and sophisticated area close by Shibuya.

At the spare time, she has shared some of her New Year holiday memorable episodes.
“It has been very busy year as usual, but for the year end, I got to return to Japan and spend relaxing time with my family and friends,” says TAO.

“Every year, I cook “Osechi-ryori”, a specially prepared New Year's dishes in Japan as a tradition. Doesn’t it look delicious? Although I use the same tiered lacquer boxes, and cook same foods every year, trust me this is the photo of this year!”

After the shooting, TAO went back to New York to start of the busy and exciting year.

Let’s hope that 2012 will be a wonderful year for everyone, and stay tuned for the upcoming exciting shu uemura X TAO projects!

Holiday greetings from shu uemrua

2011-12-30T10:00:00.024+09:00

Please click to discover our greeting message. Wishing you joyful & happy holiday season!

shu uemura TSUSHIN by Tiffany Godoy vol. 14 A New Era of Tokyo Fashion

2011-12-26T10:00:00.085+09:00

A New Era of Tokyo Fashion
Fashion exhibitions are hot at the moment- think Alexander McQueen’s blockbuster at New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art, and Valentino Garavani’s new online museum. “Feel and Think: A New Era of Tokyo Fashion 2011” at Tokyo Opera City Gallery takes a more conceptual approach, featuring little clothing at all. Instead, curators highlight the Tokyo fashion scene by asking 10 popular brands to respond to the question “What is fashion?”

Good question as today low price and quick turnover often take precedence over creation. Designers responded with a series of unconventional installations that feature stuffed lions, industrial printing equipment, moss-covered floors, and hi-tech bleeps. Menswear designers SASQUATCHfabrix. -who will also be at Pitti Uomo in January-created life-sized cows and horses made of already consumed leather cut up jackets; in a reaction to mass production and consumption mintdesigns’ “Trash, Slash, and Flash!” features clothed mannequins inside a field of trash, clothing shredded like paper; while bar code scans will never sound the same once you hear them transformed into charming musical compositions at Theatre Products’ “La Boutique Fantastique”.

In an era where independent fashion designers are struggling to face the many challenges of the current fashion market, this is an opportunity to see where imagination- rather than marketing- can takes us. Ends December 25.
www.operacity.jp/ag/exh135/

photos by Keizo Kioku courtesy of Tokyo Opera City Art Gallery

shu uemura TSUSHIN by Tiffany Godoy vol. 13 Girls! Girls! Girls

2011-12-22T21:00:00.009+09:00

Girls! Girls! Girls!
The Parco department store in Shibuya was once a haven for top notch art exhibitions since the 80’s with legendary shows by Robert Mapplethorpe and Bruce Weber to name a few. It attempted to retake its space in the pop culture spotlight with “Shibu Dasu Culture”- a one week extravaganza that featured work by 100 women artists in their twenties.

DJ’s, photographers, food designers, models, accessory designers all contributed art, performed and conducted workshops. While most of the featured artists were born around 1980 and for the most part go almost unpronouncable names, the range of work was wide and varied. Fine artists Chim↑Pom and Kathy (fresh from performing at the Yokohama Triennale) showed work alongside doll artist Nuico and graphic designer / club VJ RE: RE : RE : mojojo.

Japan’s last big wave of female artists spearheaded by Hiromix and Mika Ninagawa in the 1990‘s featured a soft, feminine aesthetic, while the work of these young artists today is raw, self-empowered and often playfully kitsch.

The exhibitions catalogue “THIS IS ME!!” (currently available on amazon.jp) is a who’s who of young contemporary female Japanese artists, designers and more. The exhibition attracted upwards of 100,000 viewers making this catalogue a must have for insight into the minds of influential creators leading the way into the 2010’s.

<photos by Tiffany Godoy>

Tiffany Godoy
Fashion Editor and Creative Director Tiffany Godoy has been called "an international style insider" by style.com. She contributes to style.com, V, T Magazine, Spur, Vogue Nippon, and blogs online for Colette and Droptokyo. She is the author of Style Deficit Disorder, (Chronicle Books, 2007), Japanese Goth (Universe, 2009), and has hosted fashion TV programs aired in Japan and globally. Tiffany is the editor-in-chief of The Reality Show, and along with art director Tomoyuki Yonezu makes up the creative unit Erotyka.
www.therealityshow.jp

www.shibukaru.com

Spring / Summer 2012 Mode Make-up collection celestial garden

2011-12-19T13:06:00.000+09:00

Imagine a celestial garden in the sky,a radiant oasis above the clouds, abloom with positive energy,
fantastical colors and pristine light.

Open your senses,allow yourself to fly away to this dazzling habitat,take in the sublime vistas that surround you through new eyes.

Discover the unseen precious colors and breathtaking luminescence that exist in the air, scent, and sound surrounding you.

For the Spring / Summer 2012 mode make-up collection,
shu uemura invites you to a universe of never before seen spring shades and reflections.
A stunning celestial garden.

shu uemura mode make-up create, explore, revolutionize

“I want to try something that nobody has ever done before, something with no precedents.”

“Mode has the right to break rules” Mr. Shu Uemura

Since the pioneering collection “flaggy” in 1968, shu uemura’s seasonal haute beauty concept, mode make-up daringly collides cosmetics with fashion to become a mode accessory.

A mélange of high-style and cutting edge trends, bold make-up designs and exquisite technique, shu uemura’s unique aesthetic philosophy inspires women and make-up professionals worldwide to creatively express feminine beauty.

mode make-up’s 134th collection is an exploration shu uemura’s visionary approach to beauty and creative expression.

celestial garden will arrive in stores in January 2012!