UK. MAC Cosmetics has named French actress Catherine Deneuve as the inspiration for its 2006 Beauty Icon Series. The limited-edition collection began rolling out this month in both domestic and travel retail doors.
Deneuve is following in the footsteps of Liza Minnelli (Beauty Icon 1, Cabaret Showgirl) and Diana Ross (Beauty Icon 2, Supreme Diva). The Series was created in October 2003 to pay tribute to the world’s most celebrated cultural icons – and to underline MAC’s commitment to its “All Races. All Sexes. All Ages.” philosophy.
Each icon has been shot by photographer Michael Thompson in his New York studios, under the watchful eye of MAC Creative Director James Gager.
“When MAC approached me to design a signature make-up collection, I was thrilled to do it,” commented Deneuve. “The art of make-up design and artistry has always been a passion of mine both on and off stage.
“It gave me a wonderful opportunity to bring together a collection that was truly unique to MAC and that I know will look beautiful on any woman. During the creative development process MAC really listened to and understood my vision, and I am so thrilled to see my ideas fully realised in such an exquisite collection.”
“Belle de toujours!,” proclaimed MAC President John Demsey, referencing one of Deneuve’s most famous films, Belle du Jour. “Catherine Deneuve is all that MAC represents and admires.
“Not only is she a true beauty icon in the world of fashion, style and cinema, she is a make-up connoisseur. When we collaborated on this stunning collection, we were blown away by Ms Deneuve’s extensive make-up artistry knowledge. We are so excited about our collaboration with this highly influential and sought-after leading lady.”
The Beauty Icon 3 Series, like its predecessors, features two distinct collections (Day and Night). As a signature motif, the three key shades – pink, olive and plum – have been used to decorate the beauty powder and blot powder compacts in a stylised harlequin pattern (pictured below).
And, in response to concerns that women currently have too many pink undertones in their make-up, Deneuve and MAC have incorporated more gold and beige tones into Beauty Icon 3 products, and paid particular attention to texture and finish.
In other news, MAC has introduced a new seasonal make-up collection called Lingerie. Designed to create a “naked yet dressed” effect, the products are described as soft and seductively fresh.
The line features nearly-nude undertones, bright and saucy pinks, naughty violets and trousseau whites, according to MAC.
Products featured include lipstick, Lipglass, eye shadow and Mineralise Skinfinish. Shade names include La Di Bra!, Push-Up Plum and Negligee.
Lastly, MAC has introduced a limited-edition lip product called Chromeglass. It is described as a super-reflective lip colour that combines the high-level shine of MAC Lipglass with the pearlised metallic finish of chrome.
The Chromeglass formulation includes vitamin E and jojoba oil to condition and moisturise the lips. The line is available in 12 shades.
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