My first visit to the KIT store on Chapel Street presented me with an old fashioned apothecary style shop fitout with raw boards, wooden cabinets, beakers and glass measuring implements. While the gorgeous décor was a nod to the past, the staff were definitely a thing of the future – super attentive and friendly, not to mention helpful and people who knew their product.
The purpose of my visit was to preview the newest collection in KIT stores, Too Faced, to be presented this particular evening by Kalina Fernandez, International make-up artist for Too Faced. Kalina has been in the fashion and beauty industry for over 17 years, with 5 years as Artistic Director of New York Fashion Week and the past two years working on the Too Faced collection.
With cult products such as the Lip Injection (actually the first ever lip plumping product!), Lash Injection mascara and Shadow Insurance, the Too Faced line is a welcome addition to the KIT stable. Kalina talked us through the growth of the Too Faced brand and how packaging, product assortment and the introduction of ‘kits’ has bought the brand into the new century.
With two very keen models from the crowd, Kalina talked us through creating a smokey eye and an evening look. I was amazed how when you only do make-up on one eye, the difference you can see between make-up and no make-up. Seriously, if you think your make-up isn’t doing anything for you, just do one eye and you can definitely appreciate the difference!
When asked about the hottest new trends from New York – both in make-up and fashion – the key tips from the international expert are khaki and army colours in clothing, bold colours and red lips in make-up and an overall 50s, girly, Mad Men influence.
But when it comes to make up – here are a few foolproof tricks to get you through the new season.
– Place eyeshadow on the lid, rather than sweeping, as you can over sweep.
– Avoid blacks for liners, try browns, blues, greys etc.
– If you are in a hurry, do eyes first, then foundation.
– Use your liner pencil on a brush, then line the eye rather than the harshness of the pencil.
– Add your mascara before adding extra shadow if you are wanting a darker look. You will then be able to see if extra shadow is required.
In a world where make up has become something ‘everyday’, a visit to KIT and the products and service takes you back to a time when make-up was for special occasions and dressing up. Visit the team at Chapel Street KIT where you are welcomed as a friend, offered consultation and samples (and the opportunity to return products if they don’t suit!) and will leave feeling a million dollars.
For another opportunity to meet the team and experience the KIT hospitality, Chapel Street are hosting the Shop Til You Drop team on Wednesday 22 September (6.30 – 8.30) for a ‘Shop Loves’ event. Beauty Trends and Styling Tips will be discussed, plus the KIT creative team will be on hand for all your expert advice. Phone 9827 5988 to book, places are limited.
Image One: Damien (2IC) and Helen (Store Manager) with Kalina
Image Two: Kalina explains the new trends for Too Faced at KIT
