Ever have your makeup done at a beauty counter, go home to try and recreate the same look, then come up with a big fail? In fact, how can anyone possibly mimic such detail, when our eyes are basically closed the entire time the makeup artist does their work, and then we only get to see the finished look, but not the steps leading up to it?
Well, starting January 2015, select Yves Saint Laurent Beauté counters are going to be entering a new hi-tech phase with the help of Google Glass — a couple of weeks ago, I had the pleasure of giving this technology a spin. Let’s just say that the future of beauty is here. In simple terms, it comes down to the makeup artist wearing the Google Glass gizmo while a look is created on you, while all movements – along with audio instruction – is recorded and presented to you (either via email or on a USB) once complete, which also includes a detailed listing of the products used. What you’re basically getting is the makeup artst’s perspective of how the look was achieved (techniques, placement, etc.), along with a breakdown of the products used, to facilitate re-creating the same look on your own. And this time, you actually get to SEE the process as it unfolds. Pretty neat, huh?
I attended my session with just foundation on – and having my ‘bare’ face recorded for all to see, is unsettling to say the least – but never let it be said I didn’t take one for the team. Featuring products from the upcoming Spring 2015 Collection (available January 2015, reviews coming), there were 3 looks to choose from, and I opted for a more edgy smokey look, featuring the pink shade of the Ombre de Jour Palette (review coming soon). After my makeup artist, Sophie, completed one eye, she then stopped the recording to work on the other eye and add some finishing touches (blush, face powder).
With the tutorial/experience over, I was then able to test drive the glasses for myself, and even though it takes some getting used to, it’s absolutely amazing to see how you can work on a client AND edit a video at the same time, simply by swiping your finger along the arm of the glasses, or even via voice command. Too cool, I tell you.
On another note, looking at Google Glass made me immediately think of that Star Trek: Next Generation episode (“The Game”), where the crew members become enslaved to this bizarre game they play while wearing similar-looking glasses. And yes, I am a Trekker (not Trekkie – there’s a difference) *sci-fi/beauty geek*
For those who live in either Toronto or Montréal, here’s your chance to try the YSL Google Glass experience – space is very limited, so book fast!
- Toronto: Hudson’s Bay Queen St. W, December 11th & 12th (call 416-861-4048 to book)
- Toronto: Hudson’s Bay Yorkdale, December 13th & 14th (call 416-789-7501 to book)
- Montréal: Hudson’s Bay Ste.Catherine St., downtown, December 18th & 19th (call 514-281-4901 x 2683 to book)
Thank you to Sarah & everyone at YSL Beauté/L’Oréal for this experience
Google Glass
Star Trek: Next Generation – The Game episode
YSL x Google Glass | the three looks to choose from
YSL x Google Glass | Pink Smokey look
YSL x Google Glass | Sophie, my makeup artist
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fM8z7exK3u8&feature=youtu.be
YSL x Google Glass | My video. Not thrilled with the lighting and the way it gives my eyes these massive bags that makes me look like I haven’t slept in about 2 weeks, but whatevs. Try to keep the laughter to a low roar, please.
YSL x Google Glass | envy-inducing counter makeup station
YSL x Google Glass | Getting started …
YSL x Google Glass | … and we’re done!
YSL x Google Glass | makes me look smarter, am I right?
YSL x Google Glass | With the always gorgeous, Sarah
YSL x Google Glass | Spring 2015 Collection preview
YSL x Google Glass | Spring 2015 Collection palettes (sequins!)
YSL x Google Glass | Spring 2015 Collection palettes
YSL x Google Glass | Spring 2015 Collection lacquers
YSL x Google Glass | Volupté Tint-In-Oil (new for 2015, review coming)
I think this is one of the most unique beauty experiences I have come across to date, and even though I’m well versed in makeup artistry, I still found it useful to see how a pro wields her brushes and goes about creating a look. For anyone who has ever struggled with eye makeup placement, then you need to try this out. From what I was given to understand, the YSL Google Glass experience is basically in a trial phase right now and depending on how it is received, we can expect to see more makeup pros wearing funky glasses across YSL counters nationwide.
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