Industry Profile: Eric Sakas, Creative Director and President of Kevyn Aucoin Beauty
May 9th, 2006
Though four years have passed since famous makeup artist Kevyn Aucoin left us, his legacy and his beauty line live on through his friend and business partner, Eric Sakas. The former Director of Marketing for the Inoui line of cosmetics for Shiseido, Eric worked very closely with the late Kevyn and founded the Trade Agency with the makeup guru. In 2000, the duo also founded Kevyn Aucoin Beauty, Inc., the company that oversees the manufacturing and distribution of Kevyn’s complete line of cosmetics and lifestyle products. Omiru had the chance to chat with Eric about makeup tips and Kevyn’s continuing influence on his eponymous beauty line.
Omiru: What was your relationship with Kevyn?
Eric: Kevyn and I were both partners and business partners. We shared a wonderful life together.
O: What do you remember most about him?
E: I remember that big heart, lots of laughter and joy, and how he treated people. He was really great with everyone; he could make anyone feel at ease. People loved being around him. His soul was bigger than his life.
O: What were some of his regular sayings?
E: It’s not worth doing if you’re not going to give it 110%. Tune out all the voices around you and listen to your heart. What makes us special and unique is what makes us beautiful.
O: Did the makeup line launch before or after his passing?
E: The Kevyn Aucoin Beauty Line was founded in May 2000. Kevyn Aucoin passed on May 7, 2002.
O: What do you think about when creating a product/choosing a color? What are you taking into consideration? (Feel free to reference the new introductions.)
E: We have years of products Kevyn developed that are sitting with our manufacturers waiting to be rolled out. There is a full bath and body line, a fragrance line, as well as a skincare line. Occasionally a new technology is introduced that I will incorporate into Kevyn’s philosophy. I also look to his makeup bag for inspiration.
O: What are some tips for the lips?
E: Make sure your lip pencil is sharpened and of a fairly firm texture in order to clearly define and draw across the small lines around the mouth. Lining the lips (using the Flesh Tone Lip Pencil) will also help to prevent your lipstick from bleeding.
O: Eyes?
E: Eyes are the only area where you can really have fun and be quite creative. Unlike the lips, which can only be altered in shape before they start to look awkward, the eyes have no real set limitations. Each shape you create, whether with shadows, pencils, or liner, can take you into completely different realms. From "smoky" to "defining," subtle to high-drama, depending on the face you choose, the eye area is integral for a successful look.
O: Cheeks?
E: Blush can bring a glow or the bloom of youth to your face. Coloring is simple, too. Pink and apricot are favorite colors - more or less, it’s foolproof. For liquid or crème blush (like the Creamy Moist Glow), it is best to apply it before powder. That way it blends easier and with loose powder over it, it looks like it’s coming from within.
Images: Top left: The late Kevyn Aucoin. Bottom right: Kevyn Aucoin Liquid Eye Shading.
Entry Filed under: Designer Profiles,Features
5 Comments
1. Vinniccio | August 7th, 2006 at 4:56 pm
I loved Kevyn. His personality and how he was real with people, but had the ability to make the people of hollywood who were larger than life seem even larger. And I loved how he jsut completely changed the whole makeup industry into something that was far beyond what the mind could ever fathom.
2. Amy | January 31st, 2007 at 9:24 am
I would love to e-mail Eric. How can I contact him?
3. Tyler | October 23rd, 2008 at 11:16 am
Although i loved Kevyn i hate the fact he dated such a loser!!!! I was supposed to marry him!!! People say i am crazy because i STALKED him!! But is crazy to be in love???
HE WAS THE MAN OF MY GAY DREAMS!!!!!
4. Linda Flory | November 16th, 2009 at 10:22 am
I am very excited about Vapour cosmetics. I live in Taos NM where they do the shipping. I know Vapour has a BIG future. I would love to be part of Vapour and would like to know if any job openings w/Vapour are available.
Please contact me or tell me who else I should contact. I look forward to getting a response from you.
Best,
Linda Flory
5. Vinniccio | January 17th, 2011 at 4:52 pm
As for Eric. He was and is wonderful. He is down to earth, sweet, compassionate, and very talented. He was the creative director behind KA products for years. It was sad to see him go, although when he was with Vapour this was also a blast. I would like to see a product by Eric Sakas that is solely his. He is such a gifted man.