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NARS: Fearless Beauty, Redefined

LIFESTYLE / 2025-09-19

A Parisian Vision that Changed Global Beauty

NARS was founded by French makeup artist and photographer François Nars in 1994, born from his desire to give people tools of fearless self-expression. Launching with just 12 lipsticks at Barneys New York, the brand instantly captivated the fashion world with its provocative shades and unapologetic names. From Orgasm blush to audacious red lips, François’ philosophy—makeup as an artistic medium—challenged conventions and democratized high fashion beauty. Now under Shiseido’s stewardship, NARS maintains its Paris-meets-New York duality: polished elegance paired with modern rebellion, a combination that continues to define beauty worldwide.

Radical Color, Minimalist Design, Iconic Formulas

NARS’ signature lies in its audacious approach to color and minimalist, tactile packaging. The matte-black cases, designed by Fabien Baron, became as iconic as the products themselves. Known for high-performance pigments and universally flattering textures, NARS has created cult products like the Radiant Creamy Concealer, Velvet Matte Lip Pencil, and the legendary Orgasm franchise. Each collection balances editorial artistry with everyday wearability: a lipstick that can light up a runway, yet still belong in your handbag. Beyond core staples, seasonal launches bring experimental pigments, cutting-edge formulations, and collector palettes that blur the line between cosmetic and art.

A Culture of Bold Expression and Artistic Collaboration

More than makeup, NARS is a cultural manifesto for fearless individuality. François Nars’ background as a photographer infuses the brand with a visual narrative that intersects fashion, photography, and cinema. Collaborations with avant-garde artists and limited-edition collections—such as the Andy Warhol and Steven Klein capsules—transform beauty into cultural dialogue. NARS campaigns often feature raw, unapologetic portraiture, celebrating every skin tone, gender, and identity. The brand’s pop-ups, runway partnerships, and digital activations extend its ethos into immersive experiences, making NARS not just a cosmetic line, but a community of creators and provocateurs.

Own the Power of Bold Beauty

NARS is more than a beauty brand—it’s a celebration of individuality, artistry, and defiance. Every blush, every lipstick, every shadow is an invitation to challenge boundaries and craft your own story. From its Parisian beginnings to its global cult following, NARS continues to redefine what it means to be beautiful: fearless, expressive, and entirely your own. Discover NARS at IFCHIC, where icons like Orgasm blush, Radiant Creamy Concealer, and exclusive seasonal collections await to transform your look with unapologetic chic.