I was totally new to the process of creating my own products, I'd studied manufacturing and supply chains at uni, but it's no real preparation; it was a steep learning curve. I knew I had some core values for the range which I was determined to stick to... that the formulas were developed in the UK and that they would be our own, new formulas exactly to our specifications. I wanted the packaging to have an authentic vintage feeling, but also to be fresh and usable. The products must create an authentic vintage look, so for me that was little or no shimmer and glitter which is in most products nowadays. And finally I wanted to be in love with the products I created, I wanted to use them everyday and be proud of what we'd done.
The first challenge I found was the jargon barrier, it was all pantone colour references, codes for types of plastics, nets and more. It was difficult to appear legitimate and experienced when I wasn't familiar with industry language. Secondly timing was essential (see my post of project planning for some insight into tackling the 'critical path' of tasks!) and we really tested that to the last possible parameter with our products arriving the morning of our launch.
All in all though it's been one of the most rewarding processes I've been through. I think I stuck to my values well, and with determination, some negotiating skills and the incredible creative input I had from Diablo who designed the packaging and helped develop the formulas with our awesome chemist, we got there. We're now in the process of developing more products including more lipstick colours, powder, face cream (which is going to be incredible!) and eye shadow and brow powders. We've also been working on our existing formulas to make them even bolder in colour and longer lasting and I'm adoring the results. Even now, it has still been challenging (not compromising on your vision can make these processes a lot longer) but I'm excited about the new formulas we have, and giving our customers more choice.
So here's our products, I'd love to hear your feedback!
Our complete range, including 5 gorgeous, super soft, non-animal fibre make up brushes, all are dual end, precise and professional quality!
.jpg "Le Keux Cosmetics 1950s vintage retro make up packaging brushes company")
Black Cadillac Eye Liner Paint, designed to be applied as a bold eye liner flick or smudged for a smokey, femme fatale look.
This is Peachy Keen our soft pastel lip paint, the perfect alternative to red for vintage loving girls. This tone suits all skin colours and is fresh. Our lip paints are all infused with cherry scent for truly kissable lips!
Here you can see our pots, designed to look like authentic glass dressing table sets!
The last of our make up products - Whistle Bait Red Lip Paint. This is a bright pillarbox red that can be worn as a gloss, matte or voluptuous Hollywood style.
Instructions on how to use our Black Cadillac Eye Liner Paint.
Beautiful advert designed by Diablo Rose.
The first face of our make up range, the gorgeous August Allure, pin up model. Here she wears Peachy Keen and Black Cadillac.
Wearing Whistle Bait Lip Paint in Hollywood style.
Wearing Black Cadillac Eye Liner Paint and Whistle Bait in matte style.
Our Christmas advertising campaign featuring international burlesque star Anna Fur Laxis.
Winner of our 2013 'Face of Le Keux Cosmetics' competition Eve, modelling a bridal look for a marketing campaign.
.jpg "wedding bridal gift vintage advertising advert campaign 1950s make up cosmetics beauty ad vintage retro le keux 50s 60s 70s 20s 30s 40")
We often use our customers in marketing campaigns (they are all so beautiful!), here we have our Valentines advert. In fact our new brush packaging and lipstick boxes will be featuring some more lucky customers from our salons!
And here's our packaging...
