Kakuyasu Uchiide’s wealth of beauty expertise, honed over 26 years as a disciple of the great Mr. Shu Uemura, serves him well in his role as International Artistic Director of Shu Uemura Cosmetics, where he was responsible for the conceptualisation of the brand’s most iconic products, including the theatrical lashes and bold palettes.
Never ones to pass up on the chance to talk about make-up (our fave subject), we quizzed the dapper gent about his tried-and-tested beauty tips and his plans for continuing the brand’s legacy.
What was it like working with Mr. Shu Uemura himself?
He was the perfect role model. In that sense, he was a visionary artist who knew how to perfectly balance business with creativity. I can only hope that I’ll pass on the same values he taught me to the next generation of beauty innovators.
What’s the greatest thing he taught you?
How to appreciate women’s beauty as an art form. Art enriches our lives and constantly inspires us – without it, life would be so dull. That’s why I’m proud of what I do because I feel that my job is an art that contributes to society and culture.
What are some common beauty mistakes women make?
I totally respect individual beauty. To me, it’s not about creating a whole other person but accentuating your best features. It’s also important to have a beautiful canvas. Women must realise that above anything else, skincare is the most important step in the beauty process. Asians with beautiful, darker skin tones, I’d say be braver and experiment with bolder colours.
Any make up tips for us ladies in Singapore?
Take the simple approach. Many mistakenly believe that building layers upon layers of products on your face will make your make up last longer. But less is more. The lightbulb cream foundation by Shu Uemura is the perfect product for Singapore’s climate – it provides a thin, yet buildable coverage for a sophisticated glow.
Kakuyasu Uchiide with Karl Lagerfeld for the Holiday Collection 2012
Shu Uemura has worked with legendary artists such as Karl Lagerfeld and Wong Kar Wai in the past. Is there a new collaboration in the works?
We’re constantly coming up with new ways to showcase our brand and surprise our fans at the same time. I can’t get into the details of our next project, which will come out next Spring. But I can tell you that we’re working with someone in the fashion industry… you’ll love it, I’m sure!
Who’s your ideal Shu Uemura girl?
It’s hard to say because so many things in my line of work inspire me. I think every woman is the ideal Shu Uemura girl. It’s our mission to help them be brave in their quest for beauty and express it in their own special way.
Arigato, Uchiide-san!
The Shu Uemura Brave Beauty 2014 Collection ($33-$580) is in stores now.