NARS

MEET THE FOUNDER

After graduating from the world-renowned Carita Makeup School in Paris, François Nars moved to New York and quickly made a name for himself as a creative who loved working with colour and a modern aesthetic. He collaborated with hairstylist to the stars, Oribe Canales, and world-famous photographer Stephen Meisel. Together the three of them produced magazine editorials for American Vogue, Vogue Italia and Elle. In 1994 Francois launched his eponymous brand NARS, with 12 lipstick shades sold only at Barney’s New York. They were a sell-out and the brand quickly evolved, et voila! NARS was born.

A CELEBRATION OF INDIVIDUALITY

“Don't hold back. Be bold. It encourages others to do the same” are the words François Nars goes by. With a founding vision of make up that encourages individuality and self-expression, the brand was created for people who like to take risks, explore, have fun and express themselves through playful cosmetics.

INNOVATION

The brand hasn’t stood the test of time by standing still, oh no. Over the years it has continued to develop innovative, high-end products that explore all manner of textures, tones and finishes, from its dual-intensity eyeshadows to its velvet matte lip pencils and iconic blush-highlighter hybrid — Orgasm — that made its debut in 1999!

AHEAD OF ITS TIME

NARS has always had a forward-thinking approach to beauty, and it was one of the first beauty brands to offer a significant range of skin tone shades, before most other brands followed suit. The brands first foray into complexion products was in 2018 with its Natural Radiant Longwear Foundation which is available in 33 shades. If that’s not iconic, we don’t know what is.