Table of Contents
- Key Highlights:
- Introduction
- The Birth of 'The Multiple'
- NARS’s Design Philosophy
- The Creative Process Behind the New Shades
- The Cheeky Names of NARS
- The Impact of 'The Multiple' on the Beauty Industry
- The Legacy of François Nars
- The Future of NARS and 'The Multiple'
- FAQ
Key Highlights:
- François Nars revolutionized makeup artistry with the introduction of 'The Multiple' stick, a versatile product designed for eyes, cheeks, and lips.
- The recent re-release features 12 new shades, enhancing the original concept with improved formulas that prioritize blendability and pigmentation.
- Nars discusses his laid-back approach to beauty, the creative process behind his iconic shade names, and the timeless principles that guide his work.
Introduction
In the world of cosmetics, few names resonate as profoundly as François Nars. Since the inception of his eponymous brand in the 1990s, Nars has consistently pushed the boundaries of makeup artistry, creating products that not only enhance beauty but also celebrate individual expression. One of his most iconic creations, 'The Multiple,' stands as a testament to his innovative vision. Originally launched nearly three decades ago, this groundbreaking product has recently evolved into a reimagined version that maintains its original charm while adapting to modern beauty standards. This article delves into the history and significance of 'The Multiple,' exploring its creative genesis, the philosophy behind Nars’s work, and the new shades that promise to captivate beauty enthusiasts once again.
The Birth of 'The Multiple'
The journey of 'The Multiple' began in 1996 when François Nars was invited to contribute to a spring makeup story for Harper's Bazaar. Tasked with creating a fresh look, Nars utilized a single lipstick to paint model Carolyn Murphy, sparking the idea for a revolutionary product that could serve multiple purposes. “I worked quite quickly, so the makeup was done in 10 minutes, which I think everybody loved,” Nars recalls, reflecting on the shoot that would change the course of his brand.
The concept was simple yet transformative: a product that could seamlessly transition from lips to cheeks to eyes, catering to women’s increasingly busy lifestyles. Nars's desire to create a product that was both functional and artistic led to the birth of 'The Multiple.' “Why don’t I make one product that mimics exactly what this lipstick does when applied to the eyes, cheeks, and lips?” he pondered, ultimately giving rise to a makeup staple.
NARS’s Design Philosophy
At its core, NARS’s design philosophy revolves around the idea of enhancing natural beauty rather than masking it. During the original shoot for Harper's Bazaar, Nars eschewed heavy makeup in favor of a more laid-back, natural look. He believed that makeup should highlight the skin's natural luminosity rather than obscure it. “I always felt makeup had to stay very centered,” he asserts, emphasizing the importance of balance in makeup application.
This philosophy is evident in the formulation of 'The Multiple.' Nars aimed to create a product that felt weightless on the skin while providing rich color payoff. The original version featured a velvety texture that allowed for easy application and a natural finish. The recent reimagining of 'The Multiple' stays true to these principles, introducing shades that are more blendable and pigmented, ensuring that users can achieve a flawless look without the heaviness often associated with traditional makeup.
The Creative Process Behind the New Shades
The re-release of 'The Multiple' includes 12 versatile shades, each crafted with a specific purpose in mind. Nars emphasizes that the shades had to be neutral enough to work across various skin tones while still providing enough variety to cater to individual preferences. “The shades had to be somewhat neutral, because they needed to be a range of products in one that could be applied with your finger or a brush,” he explains.
The creative process behind selecting these shades was meticulous. Nars aimed to create formulations that were easy to apply, whether using fingers for a quick touch-up or brushes for a more polished look. The texture of the product remained a key focus, ensuring that each shade would glide on smoothly without appearing greasy or heavy.
The Cheeky Names of NARS
One of the standout features of NARS products has always been the cheeky and creative names assigned to its shades. From playful references to pop culture to more provocative titles, the names are often as memorable as the products themselves. Nars shares that the naming process is a reflection of his personality and brand identity. “I like to have fun with the names,” he states, revealing that many of them come from personal experiences or humorous anecdotes.
The names often evoke a sense of playfulness and confidence, aligning with the brand’s philosophy of encouraging self-expression. This cheeky approach has helped solidify NARS’s place in the competitive beauty market, making it a favorite among consumers who appreciate both quality and a touch of whimsy.
The Impact of 'The Multiple' on the Beauty Industry
The introduction of 'The Multiple' marked a significant shift in the beauty industry, paving the way for the development of multi-use products that cater to the modern consumer's need for convenience and versatility. It challenged traditional notions of makeup application, encouraging users to experiment with color in new and innovative ways.
Nars’s vision not only resonated with makeup artists but also with everyday consumers, leading to a broader acceptance of the idea that makeup can be both functional and artistic. The concept of using a single product for multiple purposes has since gained traction, inspiring countless brands to follow suit with their own versions of multi-use products.
The Legacy of François Nars
François Nars's influence extends beyond his product line; he has fundamentally changed the way makeup is perceived and applied. His commitment to celebrating natural beauty has inspired a generation of makeup artists and enthusiasts alike. As the beauty landscape continues to evolve, Nars remains at the forefront, adapting to industry trends while remaining true to his artistic vision.
His laid-back approach to beauty, combined with his innovative spirit, has allowed NARS to maintain its relevance in a rapidly changing market. As new beauty brands emerge and consumer preferences shift, Nars's ability to blend creativity with practicality has ensured that his products remain beloved and sought after.
The Future of NARS and 'The Multiple'
As NARS looks toward the future, the brand is poised to continue its legacy of innovation. The reimagined 'The Multiple' is set to launch with an emphasis on inclusivity and versatility, catering to a diverse range of consumers. With 12 new shades, the product not only embodies Nars's original vision but also reflects the contemporary beauty landscape where diversity and representation are paramount.
Moreover, Nars's commitment to sustainability and ethical practices is increasingly shaping the brand’s direction. As consumers become more conscious of the environmental impact of their purchases, NARS is likely to explore eco-friendly formulations and packaging in future releases, aligning with the growing demand for responsible beauty products.
FAQ
What is 'The Multiple' by NARS? 'The Multiple' is a versatile makeup stick that can be used on the eyes, cheeks, and lips, allowing for a quick and easy application.
How many shades are available in the new release of 'The Multiple'? The newly reimagined 'The Multiple' will feature 12 shades, each designed to be blendable and pigmented.
Why is François Nars considered influential in the beauty industry? François Nars is known for his innovative approach to makeup, pioneering multi-use products and emphasizing the importance of enhancing natural beauty.
What makes NARS products unique? NARS products are distinguished by their high-quality formulations, creative shade names, and a commitment to celebrating individuality and self-expression.
Is 'The Multiple' suitable for all skin types? Yes, 'The Multiple' is designed to be versatile and is formulated to work well on a variety of skin types and tones.
What is the philosophy behind NARS's product formulations? NARS focuses on creating products that enhance natural beauty while being easy to apply and comfortable to wear, prioritizing quality and performance in their formulations.