Thursday, 31 March 2016

Givenchy's Previous Makeup Adverts

As I thought it would be important for me to understand the style and concept of Givenchy's adverts and editorial shoots, I looked at their previous work. I think it is important for me to look at these, if I am going to create my own. I picked out a couple of past advert shoots, as well as a couple of editorials. 

Within the advertisement shoots, there are many images where it is just the model standing against a plain white background, with the whole image in black and white. This is to focus the viewer on the model herself, as they are modelling the clothes. Below is the Autumn/Winter 2015 Campaign, featuring Donnatella Versace, who is head of competing brand, Versace. It is unusual for a head of a competing brand to front for an opposing designer's collection, which is why I have chosen to look at this image. The stark black and white image grabs the attention of the viewer, and people who know about designers would have been shocked to see this. “I believe in breaking rules. Riccardo Tisci is extremely talented and above all my dear friend. We are family. I want to get rid of the old system, work together, support each other and make fashion a true global community.”- Donnatella Versace. Below this image is the advertisement for Dahlia Noir, Givenchy's fragrance from 2011, starring model Mariacarla Boscono. It is interesting to see that through the space of 4 years, the brand still continue to use this minimalist style of photography, both shot by Mert and Marcus. I think that for my advertisement shoot and my editorial shoot, I will look at using this style of photography within my work. I think it would be interesting to see the photographs in colour, however, I would like to use black and white as this is iconic to Givenchy; it is instantly recognisable. Below the Dahlia Noir advert is the Live Irresistible advert starring Amanda Seyfried, in 2015. This is completely different to the other two images, as there contains a lot of colour, in an interesting location. This contrasts that of the previous photoshoots, however, I think that it would be interesting to combine both of these styles. Maybe using a colourful makeup look against a white background could be effective. 
Donnatella Versace for Givenchy, 2015

Mariacarla Boscono for Givenchy's Dahlia Noir, 2011

Amanda Seyfried for Givenchy's Live Irresistible, 2015

 Here are a couple of editorial shoots that I have found from Givenchy. Both are very similar in style, for example, the layout of the models is very similar to each other. Givenchy have used groups of models standing still, looking down at the camera many times, that it has become iconic to the brand. It becomes instantly recognisable of the brand. The images are haunting, as each model looks hauntingly at the camera, or just slightly away from the camera. I particularly like how the first image, from the Fall/Winter 2012 collection is light in colour, whilst the images below, from the Spring/Summer 2012 and the Fall/Winter 2015 are typically dark, however they still are just as haunting as each other. The top image seems to me like the group of models are possessed, or ghosts caught in the camera. They hold power over the audience, which pulls the focus into them and the clothing. I found it interesting that the S/S 2012 spread was so dark in colour, as you would usually think of Spring and Summer as light, colourful adverts. This shows that Givenchy are able to push the boundaries and make it work. I think that by looking at these editorial spreads, I have a wide range of choices to make. I can either choose a location shot, or in the studio, and have a choice of the amount of models. I think that I would like to try and get three models at a minimum for one of the shoots, as I think this will be highly effective.
Givenchy Fall/Winter 2012.

Spring/Summer 2012.

Spring/Summer 2012.


  
Fall/Winter 2015.

Akbareian, E. (2015) Givenchy campaign ad revealed starring rival designer Donatella Versace. Available at: http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/fashion/news/givenchy-campaign-ad-revealed-starring-rival-designer-donatella-versace-10344598.html (Accessed: 31 March 2016).

Moodboards

As part of the timed assessment unit, we are asked to create moodboards to show our inspiration for the makeup and hair designs, as well as the chosen brand's overall mood and theme. However, before this I created a couple of moodboards as basic ideas for the theme of my photoshoots.

Here is the first moodboard that I created. Originally when I chose Givenchy, I immediately thought of dying, wilting flowers, and using these within my shoots, to convey the beautiful Gothic theme that Givenchy channel throughout their products, clothing and overall theme of the brand. However, when I went on to research the past editorial shoots, I found that last year's A/W 2015 editorial spread was based on this idea of dying flowers. Also, I felt that dying flowers were not as light and spring/summer like, so instead I scrapped this idea. I feel like making this moodboard helped me to put my ideas into perspective, as moodboards show not only the theme but makeup styles, colours and textures into one image. I used Photoshop to create this moodboard, using images of large sizing and high pixel quality to create crisp images. I decided to use the rubber tool to blend the images together, which gives the moodboard a foggy, ghostly feel. I placed that large flower in the centre as I felt that this would sum up my look easiest, whilst I placed smaller images around it. In the background I have used a mass of dead petals to colour the background, and give the image some depth. I have also changes the opacity on a couple of the front images to help enhance this, as I feel that Givenchy has many layers to the brand and their concept isn't just flat and basic.

Here is the second moodboard that I created to convey the Spring/Summer 2016 Catwalk Show. I felt that this helped to summarise all of the ideas behind the show, all into one image so I could clearly see theme without having to scroll through a list of images. This was initially to help show the ideas from the catwalk, but I added in a couple of images that I could use as inspiration for my own look, such as the lace painted onto the eye and around it, instead of using a real piece of lace. I included the architecture within the image as I feel that this is a really important aspect to the brand, as both Riccardo Tisci and Hubert de Givenchy used architecture and materials as inspiration for their designs. 

  

Final Moodboards

Here is the moodboard, which to me summarises the overall mood and concept of the brand. I have included a range of materials within the piece, changing the size to show their textures rather than overall shapes. I think that this moodboard sticks to the limited colour scheme of the brand's Spring/Summer 2016 palette, using golds, white and black. I decided to use the architectural structure of a cathedral as the backdrop to this moodboard, as I feel not only does it represent the architectural influence on the clothing designs, but also the haunting, Gothic atmosphere that Tisci creates within his designs, and the settings he shows them in. I used the image of the model in a striking pose to convey the attitude of the brand, strong, independent and influential. The image is from a past advertising shoot that the brand had completed. I used the lion as both reference to the architecture, but also to the attitude Givenchy has to fashion; powerful and feisty. I created this moodboard on Photoshop, and instead of using the rubber tool to separate the images from their backgrounds, I used the select tool and drew around each image to give a harsh line. I think that this contrasts the soft textures of the lace, just how Tisci uses stiff, angular tuxedo jackets with small, delicate lace dresses.


Here is the final moodboard for the makeup and hair concept that I have used within my timed assessment look. I have used a variety of images, to show colour, textures, tones, line and forms within my look. I have used the image of the girl with wet hair and clumpy lashes to convey the glossy, wet eye look and clumpy lashes. I have used the image of the plait to communicate the hairstyle I am going to incorporate into the look. I used images of lace and pearls to show the influence of textures within the look, but also the overall luxurious feel to the look. I once again used the spires of a cathedral to show the influence of that within the look, but I moved it towards the back of the image as there were other aspects more important to this look. I used the satin as a backdrop for the image as I feel this communicates the clothing my model would be wearing, but also once again the idea of luxury. I kept this moodboard limited in colour, just a like the look itself. I am really pleased with my moodboard, as I think it clearly conveys the look that I was going for in my timed assessment. However, I do think that I made a mistake in making the clumpy eyelashes so small and of a lower opacity, due to this being one of the focal points for the look. 



Price Point

As Givenchy is such a well-established, french fashion house, the prices of the products have to reflect this. Givenchy aim to create luxury items, which means that much of the products come with a luxury price tag. However, this ranges depending on what items you buy. The clothing typically starts at about £300 - the lowest costing item in Selfridges today is £320 for a cotton jersey T-Shirt with the slogan 'I feel love' emblazoned across it. I have done some research into Selfridges and the items of clothing they stock, as well as the prices. I have included the cheapest item first, all the way until the most expensive. Givenchy stock a range of clothing items for both men and women within Selfridges, but it is clear that much of the clothing styles are casual items, such as T-Shirts with phrases written on them. Of course there are the more expensive items which are typically dresses and more formal clothing, however I think that Givenchy have chosen to release this range of styles to compete for a younger target audience. I feel that the more casual, cheaper items such as the top below is aiming for young-adults, whilst the more expensive, formal clothing items are aimed more towards the elder generations, who typically have more money than younger adults. I feel that Givenchy have tried to cater for a wider target audience, and their prices reflect that, whilst still keeping the brand luxurious.
'I feel love' Cotton Jersey T-Shirt - £320 at Selfridges.




'Givenchy Paris' Burnout Cotton Jersey T-Shirt - £440 at Selfridges.
Cutaway Shoulder Crepe Dress - £1135 at Selfridges.
Chain Embellished Lace Gown - £8950 at Selfridges.
 Another example of Givenchy tackling a larger target audience is through their accessories line, which once again ranges in price. Starting at £85 is an iPhone case, all the way through to a pearl necklace for £890. I think that Givenchy have begun to release their own iPhone and iPad cases to bring in the younger generations, and pricing them so low (for the brand) will bring in a younger audience, as they think it is a bargain to get a designer case for £85 when the majority of products are over £350.
Logo iPhone 6 Case - £85 at Selfridges.
Jewel Drop Nose Ring - £140.

Bambi Print iPad sleeve - £195 at Selfridges.

Pearl Necklace - £890.


Within the Beauty Products, Givenchy's prices are significantly lower. As Selfridges do not stock Givenchy Beauty, I went to Debenhams to find out about the price range. The prices for the Makeup Products ranged from £16 to £47.50, which is very similar to that of Chanel, Estee Lauder and Smashbox. I found this interesting, as the company is competing with so many other Makeup brands, that they have lowered their prices. I think if they kept with a high designer price-tag for items such as foundations, their target audience would be reduced significantly.

Givenchy Kohl Couture Waterproof Eyeliner - £16 at Debenhams.
Givenchy Teint Couture Concealer - £24 at Debenhams.


Givenchy Photo'Perfexion - 25ml for £34.50



Givenchy Radically No Surgetics Age Defying & Perfecting Foundation - 25ml for £47.50.

The Beauty products within Givenchy's Beauty collection has a larger range in prices. Their beauty products range from £19 to £269, which is a lot more than the Makeup Range. I think this is due to the fact that the more expensive beauty products are remedies for aging skin and firming the skin, which many elder women and men want, to help keep themselves looking younger for longer. The more expensive products are generally aimed for the elder consumer market, whilst the cheaper products are cleansers, BB Creams and Luminising Products, which can be used on younger skin.

Givenchy Secur Eye Delicate Eye Makeup Remover - 125ml for £19 at Debenhams.

Givenchy Vax'n for Youth Detox Water - £29.50.

Givenchy Smile'n'Repair Firming Expert Firming Eyecare Roll on Puffiness and Dark Circles - 10ml for £41.50 at Debenhams.

Givenchy Le Soin Noir Renewal Serum - 30ml for £269 at Debenhams.

Monday, 28 March 2016

Presentation and Promotion.

The way in which Givenchy presents itself as a brand is interesting, unique, and effective. It uses catwalks, editorial shoots, television adverts to keep the consumer market inquisitive about the brand. There is a sense of alien elegance throughout the brand, including the packaging, the products itself, the photoshoots and even the website and shops. Givenchy uses this odd sense of style to bring the viewers in, and want to be part of the Givenchy network. The Presentation of the brand is continually luxurious, inviting and sleek, for example the counters at major stores such as Selfridges, which makes an outsider want to become part of the brand, thus selling their products and promoting this way of life. Givenchy is undeniably expensive, however, people with not so much money want to save to buy products from the collections and feel as if they are part of this lifestyle. I think that that the presentation of the brand supports the promotion of the brand, which is why I have combined these two into one blog post.


The stores themselves are presented in a minimalist manner, with very few products on show. This is not only to lessen the look of the shop being cluttered, but also to promote this idea that the products that are shown are of a high quality; it is quality over quantity. The use of just 5 bags on one shelving unit makes the shoppers subconsciously feel as if the products are one of a kind luxury items, and that because there are so little on show that not many people have them. This minimalist sense of style within the shops promote a sense of luxury and quality within the items. By showing their accessories in a glass showcase not only is for the safety of the products, but makes the viewer think about how important these items are to be shown in a museum-like glass case. The style of the two shops are slightly different, the Parisian store portrays the brand's heritage through the use of the patterned ceiling, showing how old the brand is. The marble floor promotes the luxurious and expensive taste to the shop, making the consumer think that if they buy a product from the store, you are part of this lifestyle. However, the store in Las Vegas is slightly different in the way the flooring is plain stone, whilst the walls remain white. This is to sell the products and place the focus on promoting the sale of items. The Parisian store is important to the brand as it makes the consumer feel as if they are at the home of Givenchy, whilst the Las Vegas store focuses on the sale of products. I visited the store in Selfridges on Oxford Street in London, and the layout was very similar to the Las Vegas store. I have to admit I felt a little inadequate to be entering such a luxury based shop, as usually you only enter a shop if you have enough money to buy from there.
Givenchy's Parisian Flagship store.

 







  
Givenchy's Las Vegas store.

This simplistic style is conveyed right through to the editorial images which are used to promote the clothing. The below images are just a couple of the many shoots where the style is minimalist. The focus is placed upon the women wearing the clothing through their placement within the photo, as well as using a rather simple background. The images are presented in such a minimalist manner, that further promotes the clothing, as the consumer wants to be part of this elite group of women.



 Givenchy promotes their products through not only the presentation of their stores, website and products, but through advertisements. Many advertisements use famous women, such as Liv Tyler, Julia Roberts and most recently Amanda Seyfried in the 'Live Irresistible' shoot. Using women like this promotes their brand, if celebrities endorse their products, then surely it is good enough for the general public. For Givenchy, it is about making consumers feel as if they are part of a brand that is unique, and luxury. The brand want people to feel luxurious and expensive through their products, whether it be clothing, accessories or beauty products and cosmetics. Many of their advertisement shoots feature a single women in the frame, who is powerful, independent and living the luxurious lifestyle that Givenchy provides. Women want to be the Givenchy girl. Often the Givenchy girl will be alongside a male who is trying to seduce her, such as the third image below. This promotes sexuality, and power, as the women don't seem to be tempted by the man. The use of seduction and lust helps to sell the products, as women want to feel this, and the product can help them do that.





Packaging

As well as the Products themselves, the packaging is a big element to the sales. The packaging is created not only to brand the products, but to lure in the customers, and appeal to consumers. Givenchy uses a range of packaging to bring together certain collections, but all have similarities, the logo and style. Givenchy's packaging is sleek, luxurious and unique, and this is carried through all of the products within the designs. The logo is a prominent feature on the packaging, to convey the brand's identity. In March 2014, Givenchy underwent a design overhaul, in order to create a style that will be the future of the brand. Givenchy is now 64 years old, so the company wanted to refresh the look of their products, and bring in a wider target audience.

Givenchy hired design team 'Two Create', to create their new status symbol and signature style. Two Create designed this packaging for Givenchy's lipsticks, which they then named ‘Rouge Interdit’. The packaging needed to be feminine, and used as more of a fashion accessory as well as a beauty product. The outcome was perfect for the brand. The lipstick consisted of two parts, a silver, metallic barrel, and a sleek, black sleeve. Two Create flipped the logo to be from horizontal to vertical for a bigger impact, which the brand now use throughout their new releases. The logo is embossed on the barrel itself, and the fasteners for the ribbon. The ribbon is used to help released the barrel from the sleeve, but also reflects Givenchy's heritage through the material. For this collection, Two Create created a 9-piece holder of which Givenchy gave to 100 recipients, in wake of the launch. The packaging is undoubtedly of high quality, this is clear through the intricate and practical design features. Following the great response from the public, Two Create then went on to design packaging for the 'Phenomon'eyes Ball Brush Mascara, and the sheer lipsticks.




In 2013, a Lipstick leather casing was designed and created by Axilone, for the 'Le Rouge' Collection. This was recieved greatly by consumers, as it communicated the luxury of the brand and fascination of fabrics through the use of genuine leather. This was the first lipstick ever to be encased in leather. The logo and brand name feature on the casing, and also the lipstick itself which adds intricacy, promoting care and focus on each individual product. 


The packaging of a product conveys not only the brand itself, but also communicates the purpose it has to a consumer. Givenchy's packaging undeniably promotes a long-lasting impression, as well as provoking a feeling of lust towards the products. The packaging is just as beautiful and thought out as much as the product itself. The intricate detailing shows that the brand cares for the products and the consumers, and for such an established, large brand to care for the little things promotes a healthy relationship between consumer and producer. The new sleek packaging targets a lower demographic, as Givenchy aim to widen their target audience. The materials promote luxury and riches, which makes the consumer believe that they will live part of that lifestyle if they buy the product. The packaging is a large part of choosing a product, as well as identifying the brand, for instance, the robin-egg blue boxes of Tiffany jewellery is sometimes more identifiable than the jewellery itself. I think that Givenchy have achieved appropriate packaging for their brand, which has become one of their many unique selling points.


Premium Beauty News (2016) Axilone: New packaging styles for Givenchy. Available at: http://www.premiumbeautynews.com/en/axilone-new-packaging-styles-for,7242 (Accessed: 28 March 2016).

Sanchez, J. (2014) Givenchy lipstick. Available at: http://www.thedieline.com/blog/2014/3/7/givenchy (Accessed: 28 March 2016).

Conran, J. (2014) Why your product’s packaging is as important as the product itself. Available at: http://www.inc.com/joshua-conran/why-your-product-s-packaging-is-as-important-as-the-product-itself.html (Accessed: 28 March 2016).

Products.

For this unit it is important to look at the brand we have chosen in a critical manner. To do this, I will study the '5 P's', which are Product, Packaging, Presentation, Promotion and Price Point. These 5 elements in addition all are focused towards selling products, and bringing in more consumers. It is important to understand the brand as a whole, rather than just focusing on the products themselves.

Products. 
Givenchy produce a range of products, including clothing, shoes, bags, accessories, skincare and cosmetics. Looking at the products themselves, without the packaging, the products boast luxury, through their design textures. When looking at the makeup, it was clear that their was a correlation between the design of the makeup itself, and the catwalk shows. For instance, the Spring/Summer 2016 Makeup Collection, "La Revelation Originelle", includes a highlighting powder, 'Poudre Lumiere Originelle'. This powder itself is more of a highlighting powder for the high points of the face, but can also be used on paler skin tones as an all over powder that provides luminosity and extinguishes shadow. The powder is embossed with an intricate lace detailing, which relates to the catwalk makeup of the Spring/Summer 2016 Couture Collection. This makeup also then ties in to the actual clothing worn within the show.

'Poudre Lumiere Originelle' as advertised by Givenchy.

A close up photograph showing the detailing of the product.

The lace makeup by Pat McGrath, which is the same pattern as that seen on the Poudre Lumiere Originelle.

  
The lace dress from which the lace pieces used in the makeup was taken from.

According to Sephora, their bestselling makeup products are:


  • Noir Couture 4 in 1 Mascara - A mascara that 'creates intense volume, strong curl, infinite length, and complete lash care'. This mascara comes in three colours, Black Satin, Brown Satin and Violet Etonnant. This product boasts a 'lash booster expert complex' that provides the consumer with healthy, fortified lashes. This product is $33.00.  After looking at a range of views, the general consensus of this product is that it does provide the wearer with length and added volume as well as a curl to the lashes all day, without smudging or transferring. Many have also mentioned a downside of the product not being waterproof, and also appearing clumpy. It recieved a 4.1 out of 5 in 501 reviews and 7443 likes on Sephora.


  •  Eye Wardrobe Clutch Set. - This eyeshadow set is a couture-inspired palette used to create glamourous, sultry eye-looks. Inside, consists of a mini mascara, a mini kohl eyeliner pencil and 6 mini eye-shadow colours. The products can be removed from the outer box, which can then be used as a small clutch bag. This product is $48.00. When looking at reviews, it appears that this clutch collection is not as it appears. Many reviewers have complained that the eyeshadows particularly are not as pigmented as they hoped, and blend into a muddy colour, as well as being too powdery. The mascara is particularly a welcomed addition to this set, with many complimenting on the formula. It recieved a 3.4 out of 5 in 7 written reviews, but has recieved 2521 likes.


  •   Photo'Perfexion Fluid Foundation - This Foundation claims to conceal all imperfections, due to the concealing formula. 'Photo`Perfexion is the 1st Givenchy foundation inspired by digital imagery. Photo`Perfexion provides the same perfect skin quality as digital touch-ups with, above all, an incredible natural finish'. The foundation comes in 13 different shades, and provides the wearer with SPF 20 to protect the skin. This product is selling for $51.00. When looking at reviews, this foundation recieved a generally good review, with many consumers saying that the product is blendable with good, even coverage, without being too heavy. The downside to this product is the shades, with many saying that there could be more shades provided. It has recieved a 4.4 out of 5 in 776 reviews, with 10,000 likes on Sephora.


    • Prisme Libre - This is a colour correcting loose powder, with an illuminating effect. 'The secret to the formulation is in its pigments, which are treated with atomization technology making them extremely fine to glide on evenly for an ultra-natural, peachy-soft skin effect.' This powder comes in 5 different shades, and each powder contains four pigments to help with evening out the skin tone. Givenchy have chosen to include a scent to this product, providing the wearer with scents of lilac and white musk. This product is $54.00. This product has received positive reviews, with many complimenting the lightening effect that it has on the skin. However, as a colour correcting powder, this has not had the desired effect, with many not seeing a difference in the redness of skin tones. It is clear this product is better as more of a highlighting powder than a colour corrector. It has recieved a 4.3 out of 5 in 68 reviews, and was given 10,000 likes on Sephora's website.

       

    • Le Rouge - This is a semi-matte lipstick with high pigmentation, offering a one-stroke application. It includes a creamy, moisturising formula for a long-lasting colour. The unique selling point of this product is particularly the real-leather lipstick case, 'as the first lipstick to come in real leather, it imparts a soft, supple touch and sensual feeling'. This lipstick comes in 25 different shades of warm pinks, reds and neutrals. This lipstick costs $36.00. This product has received mainly positive reviews, for the long-lasting formula and high pigmentation. It received 4.6 out of 5 in 470 reviews, and 30,000 likes on Sephora.


    • Mister Light Instant Light Corrective Pen - This is an illuminating corrective pen, used to conceal and correct imperfections such as under-eye shadows and blemishes. 'Effective and discreet, this magical pencil acts like a shadow chaser and a complexion reviver by immediately reducing visible signs of fatigue. Its perfectly fluid, soothing texture is fragrance-free and allows the skin to breathe naturally.' This product comes in 7 different shades, including both yellow and pink undertones. This product is $36.00. This pen received mixed reviews. Positives include the brightening formula, however the lists of downsides is considerably bigger. Many have complained that if it is used heavily, it becomes cakey, as well as not working well as a concealer. However, it has recieved a 4.3 out of 5 in 817 reviews, and 10,000 likes on Sephora.

  • Teint Couture Blurring Foundation Balm - This is an ultra-lightweight beauty balm, providing a sheer coverage to create the appearance of radiant, fresh, healthy skin. 'Its antioxidant complex of vitamin E and jasmine flower work together to protect and revitalize the skin. Infused with a light-reflecting diamond powder, this foundation corrects blemishes and gives your complexion a natural-looking radiance'. This comes in 8 shades, and provides SPF 15, at a price of $44.00. This product received good reviews on Sephora. It provides a dewy finish, decent coverage and is lightweight, with many complimenting on the texture of this product. However, a couple have mentioned that if you are pale, it can appear to oxidize within a couple of hours. It received a 4.5 out of 5 in 51 reviews, and 2686 likes on Sephora.



 House Of Fraser (no date) Givenchy Photo `Perfexion Fluid Foundation SPF 20. Available at: http://www.houseoffraser.co.uk/Givenchy+Photo+%60Perfexion+Fluid+Foundation+SPF+20/D196949,default,pd.html (Accessed: 28 March 2016).
Sephora (2016) Sephora: Givenchy: Noir couture 4 in 1 mascara: Mascara. Available at: http://www.sephora.com/noir-couture-P375170?skuId=1442607&icid2=brand%20content_undefined_brand:givenchy_p375170_image (Accessed: 28 March 2016).
Sephora (2016) Sephora: Givenchy: Eye wardrobe clutch set: Eyeshadow-palettes. Available at: http://www.sephora.com/eye-wardrobe-clutch-set-P402941?skuId=1755891&icid2=brand%20content_undefined_brand:givenchy_p402941_image (Accessed: 28 March 2016).
Sephora (2016) Sephora: Givenchy: Photo’Perfexion fluid foundation SPF 20: Foundation-makeup. Available at: http://www.sephora.com/photo-perfexion-fluid-foundation-spf-20-pa-P235346?skuId=1162262&icid2=brand%20content_undefined_brand:givenchy_p235346_image (Accessed: 28 March 2016).
Sephora (2016) Sephora: Givenchy: Prisme Libre: Setting-powder-face-powder. Available at: http://www.sephora.com/prisme-libre-P390722?skuId=1661461&icid2=brand%20content_undefined_brand:givenchy_p390722_image (Accessed: 28 March 2016).
Sephora (2016) Sephora: Givenchy: Le Rouge: Lipstick. Available at: http://www.sephora.com/le-rouge-P377755?skuId=1589233&icid2=brand%20content_undefined_brand:givenchy_p377755_image (Accessed: 28 March 2016).
Sephora (2016) Sephora: Givenchy: Mister light instant light corrective pen: Under-eye-concealer. Available at: http://www.sephora.com/mister-light-instant-light-corrective-pen-P129610?skuId=889576&icid2=brand%20content_undefined_brand:givenchy_p129610_image (Accessed: 28 March 2016).
Sephora (2016) Sephora: Givenchy: Teint couture blurring foundation balm broad spectrum 15: Foundation-makeup. Available at: http://www.sephora.com/teint-couture-blurring-foundation-balm-broad-spectrum-15-P397883?skuId=1726447&icid2=brand%20content_undefined_brand:givenchy_p397883_image (Accessed: 28 March 2016).

Wednesday, 16 March 2016

Practising Editorial Makeup

During the session with Alexia, we were asked to create a look of our choice. I thought that it would be beneficial to practise my editorial makeup look, which I am hoping to shoot with a group of models. I am hoping that all the model's makeup will be the same, giving the shoot an alien, gothic feel. My designed face chart is based on neutral tones, and the introduction of white. I kept the palette very limited, much alike that of Givenchy's palette used for the Spring/Summer 2016 collection, as well as throughout their overall clothing range. I felt that the use of neutrals would work with the golds that are introduced lightly throughout their designs, whilst the white, as well as being part of Givenchy's chosen Spring colour range, brings an essence of unusual and gothic to the look. I wanted to bleach the eyebrows and lashes to support the white.

My chosen face chart for my Editorial Look. 
Here are the images from the look. I am really pleased with the outcome of the practise shoot, as I think that the makeup works well together. The use of neutral tones and the bold white work together as they compliment each other, both catching the eye in their own way. I think if I were to create a bolder eye for this look, each part of the face would be competing each other for the focal point of the look. I think that the look is suited well to Givenchy's theme and feel to their whole brand, through the use of this different style of makeup. I decided that I wanted to over-contour the face, so that the brown tones in the eye makeup was supported with the skin tone and shadows. I also think that this produces a harsher face shape, which becomes more interesting for the viewer. I wanted to create a look that is both beautiful in its own way, as well as being different to other brands and looks, and think that I have achieved this. For the hair, I did not want to overshadow the makeup, but still keep in line with the trends. I decided on a low ponytail, with a harsh middle parting. The look is quite angular, so a middle parting with hair slicked back behind the ears really supported this. For the real shoot, I am going to use gel in the hair so that it is really exaggerated and slicked back, and so that no stray hairs can come loose. I had a minor problem with the use of the MAC LipMix, which I used for the white lip colour. As I had to layer the product on so that it was pigmented enough to become opaque, as the product dried it became crumbly. I think that I am going to have to rethink this product as I don't want my model's lips to all be crumbling and becoming patchy during the shoot, especially as the shoot will be much longer than this one. I think that I may substitute this with a white liner pencil, and the white supra. The white supra colour is a grease paint, therefore it will not dry and stay pigmented for the whole shoot. My only concern about the Supracolour is that the colour may move on the lips. I would like to try out both products to test which is better for the look. Overall, I am really pleased with the look, and now have a couple of things to change, which I would not have realised if I hadn't practised. I have also created a GIF to support this look, so that I can show multiple photographs of the look, including the back and sides. Being able to show the photographs in this format allows the viewer to be able to see a full view of the look, as well as making it easier to do so.