If you’ve ever admired the makeup of Emma Watson, Claire Foy, FKA Twigs or Rosalía, there’s a chance that you’ve noticed one thing: an audacious simplicity in the way their fresh complexion is complemented with a bold, striking lip. This elegant pared‐back look is the work of makeup artist Thom Walker, who just so happens to be the makeup creative director at Givenchy Beauty.
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Cutting his teeth working on editorials for various youth magazines, along with campaigns for some of fashion’s biggest names, the British makeup artist’s portfolio over the years has been characterised by a “woman‐first” approach, something that he brings with him to his work for Givenchy Beauty.
A strong lip is one of Walker’s signatures and his latest creation for Givenchy Beauty, Le Rouge Interdit Cream Velvet, reconsiders what women expect from liquid matte lipsticks. “We wanted to ensure that every woman can find her perfect match within this collection, regardless of her skin tone or undertone,” says Walker.
The 12‐hue line was developed with a light‐as‐air formula that gives lips a transfer‐resistant colour that stays intense for up to 12 hours as well as all‐day hydration, thanks to the addition of shea butter and meadowfoam seed oil.
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To ensure that application is as close to mistake‐free as possible, Walker even designed the wand to have a rounded side that picks up just the right amount of product to prevent bleeding, a flat one that warrants full coverage with a single swipe, and a precise tip that allows for the drawing of sharp lines akin to doing so with a brush.
Here, Walker talks about why lipstick is still a must-have, recommends some shades for different women, and gives a trick to ensure all-day wear no matter which brand you’re using.
Do you think women really need more lipstick? What makes the Le Rouge Interdit Cream Velvet a must-have then?
The beauty of lipstick lies in its transformative power and ability to elevate any look effortlessly. While I believe that every woman should have the freedom to express herself with as many lipsticks as she desires, it is not just about quantity as it is about finding that perfect lipstick that resonates with her unique personality and style.
With every shade, texture, and finish, it enables women to tell their own unique stories and create their beauty narratives whether it is a bold red for exuding confidence, a soft nude for a touch of elegance, or a vibrant hue to celebrate their vibrant spirit; reflecting the wearer’s innermost feelings and desires.
Le Rouge Interdit Cream Velvet has the ability to transcend boundaries and embrace diversity, making it the perfect choice for women of all ages, personalities, and tastes. It’s designed to empower each woman to discover her unique beauty narrative and confidently express herself through the captivating power of lipstick and is a versatile one that delivers bold, yet elegant drama on the go, making it also versatile for both daytime and evening wear.
How did you come to the conclusion that the brand needed exactly 12 shades?
The decision to curate 12 shades for our new lipstick range was a thoughtful process that revolved around the diverse beauty of women. By offering a variety from warm and cool nudes to rich and deep reds, we ensure every woman can find her perfect match within this collection, regardless of her skin tone or undertone.
The lipsticks are designed to enhance and flatter every complexion, empowering women to embrace their natural beauty and express themselves confidently through their lipstick choice.
What shade would a high-flying career woman, a Gen Z-er or a woman starting her first job wear?
Corporate high-flyers can perhaps go for #41 or #37 or #36 which will effortlessly complement her professional attire, exuding elegance and sophistication. For Gen Z’s who enjoy experimenting with trends and colours, shades #42 and #36 would be the perfect choices to express their vibrant personality and for a woman starting her first job, I would suggest a shade like #9 or #10. Also, shade #53, exudes a sense of self-assuredness and sophistication, perfectly complementing a woman who has a strong character.
Do you have any tips or tricks for women who are looking to wear matte lipstick?
After applying lipstick, one helpful tip is to blot the lips with a tissue to remove any excess product and set it with a light dusting of powder like the Prisme Libre Loose Powder. This simple step helps lock in the colour and keeps the lipstick in place, even in humid weather.
I also believe it’s best to adopt a “less is more” approach, starting with a thin layer and building up the colour if needed.
What do you think is the next big thing for the beauty industry in the near future?
In the next few months, I believe technology and innovation will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the beauty industry. We will see a seamless integration of new technologies into classic beauty products, offering bold twists to timeless essentials like a classic red lipstick or mascara. Looking ahead to the next year and beyond, I anticipate an even greater focus on sustainability and clean beauty practices.
Consumers are increasingly mindful of the environmental impact of their beauty choices, and like many, Givenchy Beauty will continue to explore and use eco-friendly packaging, cruelty-free formulations, and ethically sourced ingredients.
Shop Givenchy Beauty’s Le Rouge Interdit Cream Velvet here or at its Raffles City Singapore store.