French make-up artist and businesswoman Laura Mercier is a true icon of beauty – and her company is a favourite with Birchbox subscribers! This month, Birchbox editor Beth asked her where she finds inspiration and motivation – here are Laura’s fascinating answers:
What’s your favourite thing about your job?
The immediate, positive impact that make-up has on someone’s life is my favourite thing about being a make-up artist. When a woman looks like her best self, she usually feels her best. It is such a rewarding feeling.
Who were your female icons when you were a teenager? Have they changed today?
I’ve always been inspired by actresses from the ’50s, in particular, Ava Gardner, Sophia Loren and Brigitte Bardot. They’re the epitome of old Hollywood glamour and the pinnacle of feminine beauty. Growing up and to this day, I’ve been mesmerised by how each – in their own way – personified the ultimate woman, with their very own signature look in the way they did their make-up. They lit up the screen and had an illuminating presence that was intoxicating to all who watched. While I have had the privilege to work with some of the most talented women in the world, oh what a dream it would be to have been able to have worked with these women during this most magical time in cinema!
What inspires you?
I find inspiration everywhere. This ranges from music, art and literature to the streets of New York, to my garden in Provence. I am continuously inspired by old Hollywood cinema, because the hair, make-up and fashion were so particular back then. Everyone worked together to create the most glamorous, meticulous look possible.
What music helps you feel motivated?
I don’t listen to music as much as I used to. However, when I want to paint, I put on Bach or Mozart – music by these incredibly talented composers inspires me today as much as it did when I was younger.
What’s your favourite iconic beauty product?
Carita Fluide de Beauté 14 has been one of my all-time favourite products since the 1980s. It helps bring out the skin’s natural radiance while offering beautiful, even hydration for the whole body. The fragrance brings me right back to my hometown of Provence, France.
What’s one skill you think every woman should have?
Every woman should know how to properly apply make-up to create a flawless, natural-looking complexion. Make-up should be used to enhance a woman’s features – not cover up or hide skin.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“A smile is better than all the make-up in world!”
You’ve achieved so much already, what’s next for you and the brand?
Thank you. I’m so grateful for the blessings in my personal and professional life. Right now, I feel very fortunate to be in a place in which I can leverage the success of the Laura Mercier brand to make a difference in a cause that is very important to me personally, ovarian cancer. In 2012, Claudia Poccia (Laura Mercier CEO) and I launched the Laura Mercier Ovarian Cancer Fund in the US to fund research and educational efforts that will help diagnose, treat and support women with ovarian cancer. 100% of the profits from the sale of our LMOCF fundraising products are donated to the Laura Mercier Ovarian Cancer Fund – I am excited to say that we will launch this initiative in March 2014 in the UK, together with Ovarian Cancer Action.
Making a difference in the lives of women was the reason I launched Laura Mercier cosmetics. I wanted to provide women with the make-up products that would help them bring out their best features and encourage them to embrace and celebrate what makes them uniquely beautiful. Through the Fund, we are now able to impact women’s lives in a much different way, and I am so thankful for the opportunity. I look forward to continuing our mission and I hope you will join us!
We’re thrilled to have worked with Laura Mercier on both your October and November Birchboxes!
Now we’re going to put YOUR questions to a top Laura Mercier make-up artist! Ask any question about gorgeous make-up looks for Xmas and the festive season on Twitter – just use @BirchboxUK and #BBXAskLM – and we’ll put your queries to them next week!
– Beth