Retro chic spirit

If we could turn back time, it would be great to live in France’s golden age of beauty, innovation and peace, better known as the Belle Epoque era. For this was the age of cultural refinement and social elegance, where beautiful people would walk the streets of Paris in their best clothes like those you see in movies.

Perhaps it was this beautiful era that inspired pharmacist Theophile LeClerc to create his first face powder in 1881 at his drugstore near La Place de la Madeline in Paris. Born into a family of artists, it was no surprise that T. LeClerc was fond of art and beauty. He experimented with different alchemies in the arched basement of his apothecary and created a secret process for the famous French rice powder adored by the most elegant women in the City of Light.

Dig this, the famous French rice powder has stood the test of time because it is known for its ability to master light and hide flaws. Illumination and radiance are the key to looking flawless. Made with genuine rice powder and starch, it absorbs excess sebum and guarantees a smooth and even finish.

"For over a century, Poudre T. LeClerc was a mythical product made in the Elegant Period," says Sophie Boulesteix, area sales manager of T. LeClerc. "The process of making this product hasn’t changed at all. To ensure utmost quality, the silver matte packaging is sealed by hand."

One shade of the pressed or loose T. LeClerc powder that is considered a smash hit worldwide is Banane. No wonder our favorite celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Madonna, Jennifer Aniston, Kate Moss, and Sarah Jessica Parker are all fans of it. Banane is a soft, pale yellow shade that is the "ER" of all face powders because it can transform a dull, lackluster, tired complexion into that of a screen goddess.

"T. LeClerc’s original formulas are still made in France and have evolved and expanded to include an extraordinary palette of makeup to meet the beauty needs of modern women throughout the world," explains Boulesteix. "All products enhance your beauty and well-being."

It is good to know that T. LeClerc’s cosmetics feature a wide selection of shades. I never got so excited about makeup until I learned about this chic Parisian vintage brand. Expect to fall in love with other products like foundations, eyeliners, lipsticks and glosses, mascaras, and eye shadows that are definitely a cut above.

So, if you are wondering how Madonna can pull off her immaculate red-lip look, then try T. LeClerc’s Satin Lipsticks in Fuchsia Sensual and Red Glamour. The great thing about the lipsticks is that they play with light and create a very sensual satin effect, allowing the lips to stay dazzling. To achieve a perfect complexion, use the Corrector Palette. This sleek and stylish concealer palette comes in five easy-to-blend shades for hiding imperfections like a professional makeup artist.

For spring, T. LeClerc introduces the Vintage collection, which will be available in April. The collection offers new luminous powders, eye shadows, and pencils that show classic beauty a la sepia-like photographs. Check out the prism powder compact in three shades of Peach, Banane, and Orchid. Think pretty in pink and peach, ultra-feminine yet sexy.

"T. LeClerc is such a unique brand because of its elegant history," concludes Boulesteix. "It has remained consistent and true to its identity by mixing an old-fashioned, vintage vibe with a very modern approach to beauty."

There is nothing like a French brand to help women look their best in a retro chic way.

* * *

T. Le Clerc is exclusively available at Rustan’s Essenses Makati, Shangri-La Mall, Alabang Town Center, Robinsons Place and Ayala Cebu. E-mail love-hate whatever things to becca_rodriguez@yahoo.com or visit www.myspace.com/beccacrodriguez.