Shiseido toasts new artistic director with Asian-inspired fête

(NEW YORK) Balmy nights call for parties at the Gramercy Hotel Roof Club, so Shiseido The Makeup answered with a welcome celebration for their new artistic director, Dick Page. The outdoor space was transformed into a Far East fête, from the sake-tinis with flowers flown direct from Tokyo right down to the hot sauce condiments on the table.

The British make-up artist has been working with Shiseido in Japan since 1997 on their domestic cosmetics line, INOUI. For his new post, Page has set his sights on changing the face of beauty and developing makeup for women of color, specifically of Latin and Asian descent. When creating new products or looks, the runway and editorial veteran concentrates on what’s available to him, often finding inspiration in seasonal items that can be found at farmers markets. He also is one who doesn’t buy into trends. “I’m telling people what the trends are, but I don’t really believe in trends,” he said. “It either works for you or it doesn’t.”

His philosophy has earned him many fashion fans and runway credits, including Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, and Narciso Rodriguez, who chatted up Page with fellow designer Doo Ri Chung. His Allure admirers Linda Wells, Paul Cavaco, and Joe Zee all came out to congratulate him. “Dick is such a huge talent, and after his long relationship with Shiseido in Japan, this new alliance is completely natural," said Wells. "He’s also a great quote, although he tests any reporter’s note taking! Have you heard how fast he talks? Before I interview him, I always ask him to take a moment, exhale, and slow down.” But there was no slowing down for the man of the hour thanks to a receiving line more than 15 people deep. “I meet him every year at Fashion Week, but I have to go meet him again!” exclaimed Jane’s Courtney Dunlop, who added, “Dick Page is an absolute genius. It’s very exciting for any company that gets to have him onboard.”

And Shiseido CEO Heidi Manheimer couldn’t agree more. “You can see by the reaction from everyone it’s a positive thing and we’re positive about him!”
BIANCA POSTERLI