Laura Mercier Makeup

Born in France, Laura Mercier began her training in fine arts, but soon switched to makeup. She attended the prestigious Caritas Institute in Paris, eventually becoming an instructor. Mercier's notoriety grew, and in 1985, she moved to New York City to help launch the American version of Elle. She quickly made a name for herself stateside, adding editorial duties at magazines such as Vanity Fair, Seventeen and Glamour.

Around the same time, Mercier began working on advertising campaigns for fashion giants such as Bergdorf Goodman, Clairol and Bloomingdale's. Celebrities including Madonna, Sarah Jessica Parker and Julia Roberts soon came calling, and Mercier further honed her craft as a personal makeup artist to the stars.

A contract with Elizabeth Arden came with the increasing tide of Mercier's fame, stipulating that she design all the company's makeup looks for advertisements. A similar contract with Chanel followed on the heels of the first, with Mercier hired to manage makeup looks in French publications.

With over a decade of experience behind her, Mercier co-founded the cosmetics company that bears her name in 1996. The company made a name for itself by promoting the ""flawless face"" concept, which advocates the use of naturalistic makeup tones and application. As of August 2014, the Laura Mercier Cosmetics company has several additional lines, including skincare, bath, body, and fragrances. Many of the company's major fragrances are derived from botanicals, including Verbena Infusion, Creme de Pistache and Fresh Fig. More classic fragrances include L'Heure Magique and Eau de Lune.