Twice a year Henry Bendel’s opens their doors to young designers for an Open-See – a casting call for independent designers – hoping to find candidates for their Trunk Show. Last Friday I decided to try my luck with my cosmetics line. Prepping for the casting, I noticed that there wasn’t a whole lot of information available out there so I decided to write about my own experience.
Buyers begin to see people at 9am but most show up much earlier to take a spot in the line. You see a lot of out-of-towners here, some have even camped in front of Bendel’s over night. Mark & I got there early – by 7:30 am the line had already stretched around the corner, all the way down the block and around the corner again. The whole scene reminded me of the America’s Next Top Model auditions my sister went to. Luckily, once the line started moving it moved pretty quickly – people were let in 10 at a time, and by 10:30 my group was in. Even though it was brutally cold (60F and windy), it wasn’t so bad because of all the interesting people you meet! I saw women of all ages – 20 to 50 – and even some men, bags loaded with hand-crafted goodies, all awaiting their turn to impress the buyers. I was one of the few cosmetics people and only met one perfume maker – the rest designed jewelry, scarves, hats. Most were here for the first time, and nobody knew what to expect. I was lucky to have had my friend Kristen prep me the day before – she had successfully passed the auditions and sold at Henry Bendel’s 2 years ago.
So, what should you know before you go in? The following tips won’t guarantee you a spot in the Trunk Show but will improve your chances of getting picked.
- 1. Get there early
Open-See ends at 12pm, so I recommend you get there no later than 7-7:30 am. If you are in cosmetics, you might get let in faster because they have a separate buyer for that.
- 2. Dress Warm
You will be standing in line for a few hours so be sure to bring a scarf, hat and gloves! Bring a friend or make friends in the line so you can run to the bathroom/pick up some hot chocolate at the nearest coffee shop.
- 3. Practice your pitch
Your product should speak for itself but after seeing hundreds of goods within an hour, buyers don’t have the mental capacity to figure things out. Tell them exactly what it is that you make, what it does, and how it’s different or better than what’s out there.
- 4. Decide on your price point & stick to it
I was surprised to learn how few people had decided what to charge for their product. The buyer will ask you how much you want it to retail for, so be prepared to give them an answer. Remember than most retailers take 50-55%, so make sure it’s profitable for you!
- 5. Have a Press Kit
Buyers are most impressed with those who come in prepared – and nothing says ‘I’m serious’ like a Press Kit. A Press Kit is a few print-out pages to help the buyer understand what your company is about. It can be as small as 1 page – a 1-paragraph bio and any praise you my have gotten. Did you get a blog mention? Got great feedback from a customer? Put it in there.
- 6. Bring business cards
Most important – this is how the buyer will get in touch with you should they like your stuff. Plus, you never know who you’re going to meet in the line. Make lots of them & hand them out.
- 7. Don’t take it personally
I know it’s the hardest, not to take rejection personally. If they don’t choose your product, it doesn’t necessarily mean it wasn’t good enough. It could be simply not the right fit for their store. Ask for feedback from the buyer – it’s possibly the most valuable information you’ll get out of the experience.
Touching up my lipstick before going in
So how did I do? Well, the buyer was very impressed with my concept, packaging and the response my line has gotten so far – but expected to see more subdued colors come out of those pink tubes. I’m pretty sure I saw shock on her face when she twisted out No She Didn’t, haha. They asked if I was planning to make more colors and I said yes (the expansion pack), but I think what they meant is, “Are you going to make more wearable colors”. Well, I am not committed to making exclusively unwearable colors, that’s not my mission. My goal is to make unusual colors, something you won’t find at a regular store, and I don’t see why some of them can’t be wearable. She gave me her card and said to call for an appointment once I have more colors, so that’s what I’ll do.
As I left the store, I began to wonder if this is the kind of a reaction I’ll be getting a lot from now on & should get used to. I know I have my customers’ support, but are any of the stores brave enough to carry my brand? Or will I be forever cajoled into making brown lipstick? Rejection can distort your perspective, but don’t let it take you over entirely. I started my line because it was meant to be different. I wanted shades outside the traditional spectrum, so why should I expect this to be easy? I’m not quitting, and I’m here to fight with the rest of girls who want more color in their lives, tired of the same beigeness everywhere, and know that blue lipstick is fashion, not Halloween!!!
I am not in it for the money. It doesn’t matter if Macy’s doesn’t want to carry my brand, I’ll live. I am staying true to my mission because I wholeheartedly believe that by overcoming the fear of being different, we evolve.
your amazing<3 the lipsticks are incredible, your very ispirational.
xoxoxox<3
Renee H Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 10:22 pm
I think your stuff is AMAZING! I know up here in Canada a few of the major chains are starting to carry more funky, glittery lines of makeup that are defintely out of the ordinary “wearable” spectrum. Unfortunately, they are fairly low pigment :( and also EXPENSIVE! Perhaps you should get some help coming up with some way to really market the hell out of it to make people want to TRY some of the wilder colours, even if you’ve got to get a couple of voulinteer makeup artists to set up in very high traffic area and do free makeup somewhere public to just get the concept out there more. the blog is a great start – it’s certainly opened my eyes!
Sounds like it went really well! Definitely follow up with the buyer when you have more colors. Considering all the people she saw that day, she would not have said that if she didn’t mean it! Good luck!
Alzy Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 12:49 pm
Weird, my website was coming up as yahoo. But anyway, I forgot to mention I’ll be reviewing limecrime lipsticks on my blog on Thursday :)
Cassandra Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 12:52 pm
ARG! Have you gotten yours yet? I’m dying waiting for mine to come D:
Dana Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 6:35 pm
I didnt get mine and I live in NY!!
Doe Deere Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 6:59 pm
They’ll be there by the end of the week for sure!
Alzy Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 8:34 pm
I got mine Saturday!
Rickey Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 1:31 pm
Well… Do what you think is best, but I think you’re right, Doe, in that she meant more “wearable” colors, and not just more colors. Maybe if there was some campaign to advocate the “wearable-ness” of the bold colors… to coax out the diva in the more conservative folk. I think it’s safe to say that everyone dreams of unicorns and bright orange rockets, but not everyone is ready to live it– if we could all find some way to make it appeal to people who are less open to standing out… then maybe they would go for it.
But really, I know nothing about how this works.
Rickey Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 1:34 pm
Actually, now that I’m thinking about it, the only colors that REALLY push the limits of normal are my beautiful rocket and no she didn’t… the rest are pinks, purples, red… and black can be totally wearable… but then, we already like you. You don’t have to convince us of anything.
Uck.
Doe Deere Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 7:03 pm
I know exactly what you mean, actually. Countessa Fluorescent is not something to wear to work (unless your job is to be Lady Gaga!), so I’m making some more unusual colors for daily wear.
Go you. Seriously.
Never be afraid to stand your ground, especially when it comes to this. Starting to make “wearable” colors would be as devastating as when Lancome bought out MAC! Did anyone else notice how all of their stuff went from super-pigmented to being way more subdued? I did.
Be different. Be bright. Be wonderful, and never let anyone tell you that’s wrong.
YAY! so glad to hear you say that. I am TIRED of BEIGE Everywhere too. If I wanted to look natural I wouldnt wear makeup.
Rickey Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 1:26 pm
Thank you! I look natural without makeup, we all do- that’s what “natural” means- so if we want to look natural, then why do we coat our lips in anything at all?
Doe Deere Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 6:59 pm
Haha, I don’t really get that whole “natural makeup” thing either. Not that I don’t ‘get’ it – I just see no point in producing it. There is already so much out there!
Bah! What’s the point in making the same colours as everyone else? Keep doing your thing, no compromises!
I definitely think you should stick to your goals, Doe, and as long as your stuff is selling, don’t compromise for anyone.
My Mom is a former beauty therapist and now a part-time singer, and I was trying to convince her of how great your line is and how it would make great stage make-up…but she just couldn’t get her head around the idea of shockingly bright lipstick. She said, “You don’t wear blue/black lipstick!” but she couldn’t answer when I asked her, “Why not? Who made that rule?”
I guess it’s not for everyone, but I believe that Lime Crime needs to exist for the people who are daring enough. Like everyone else seems to be saying, there’s no point in doing what everybody else in the cosmetics industry has been doing for years.
Keep on being different!
x
Doe Deere Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 7:05 pm
I always thought it was interesting how people think that certain colors are ‘ok’ in cosmetics and others aren’t. For instance, red eyeshadow = bad. Blue lips = bad. I think both can be quite beautiful actually, if done right…
kaylin Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 10:23 pm
Agreed. It really is an art, If you slab on blue eyeshadow with no real thought. It’ll look cheap. Same with any other color. Which by the way, sapphire eye’d girls. Red eyeshadow, will make them peepers look so blue. Brown would have a very intense smoldering look and green would would look like fresh dew drops on a summer’s day. It’s all about how you do it.
Shel Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 10:30 pm
Ahhh, but I <3 red eye shadow so much. ^___^
Suzanne C. Reply:
October 28, 2009 at 2:31 am
Yeah red eyeshadow is the best, i got siren and now i’m looking for something with brown undertones a kind of bright, rusty, and a bit bloody all at once. Bonne Belle used to make something like that 15 or so years ago my mom gave me some and i’m afraid of using it up.
shayne Reply:
October 28, 2009 at 12:19 pm
I used to ALWAYS wear red eye shadow. It looked great on my pale skin and black & red hair. I got really excited many years ago when Chanel came out with the red & black shadow with the vasaline like substance to make it shiny. I ran to the chanel counter the day it came out so I could buy it. I wore it a lot. Even now I still wear blue and green eye liners (urban decay brand) most of the time because those colors look good with my pale skin and blue eyes. I can even wear it to work if I keep the rest of my face on the neutral side. I wouldn’t be taken seriously at work if I showed up with eyes like that and blue or green lips. I think you can get away with colorful eyes more then unusual colored lips in the workplace.
Britney Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 11:34 pm
I have red eyeshadow, and I love it. I don’t overdo it though. I usually use metallic silver with it as well. It looks hot.
Go Doe! You are so amazing. I hope you follow up after the expansion.
I’m brave enough to carry your brand!!! I can’t wait for my lipstick.
Congratulations! I want you to know that once I’m out of college (maybe even before, if it’s possible– I’m still a senior in high school right now) I have every intention of opening a brick-and-mortar store, and I WILL carry Lime Crime!!!! You can count on me… when the time comes. For now, I’m just customer support… except the other way around!
Doe Deere Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 7:06 pm
Now there’s a girl with ambition! Good for you! :)
Good for you! I guess from a buyers P.O.V she was unsure of a blue lipstick selling, as pinks, reds and browns always do, but from the reaction you get on this blog it’s safe to say the feedback has been very good! I hope she checks your blogazine out and sees that an edgy product isn’t always unsellable.
Is that Airborne Unicorn in that pic? :-)
Doe Deere Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 7:07 pm
Yep, that’s the Unicorn!
“I’m here to fight with the rest of girls who want more color in their lives, tired of the same beigeness everywhere, and know that blue lipstick is fashion, not Halloween!!!”
Thank you! You are someone I truly respect for so many reasons and this is one of them. Even though I hang out with cool people, sometimes I feel it may be easy to conform to their views of makeup & fashion, but that’s not what I truly believe. But when I come on here, or other people who I like, I really resonate with what you say.
keep doing what you’re doing! not only are you freaking awesome…but, you’re lipstick line is incredible! i just got my centrifuschia in the mail yesterday and you bet your ass i am rocking it right now at work!
i work for professional makeup artists and so far i’ve gotten nothing but positive response to your lipstick and shimmer dusts!
you have our support!!! xox
Doe Deere Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 7:07 pm
That’s so awesome!!! :D
I really hope it works !
I haven’t bought the lipsticks yet, I’m currently unemployed and don’t have that much money to spend but I can’t wait ! :)
I also wanted to tell you that I would looove it if you were able to create lipsticks with 2 colours, like nail polishes or lip glosses. Something like pink lipstick with blue reflects, or coral with green… Candyfuturistic colours that even those of us who can’t pull out No she didn’t everyday could actually wear at work =)
(btw, sorry if I made mistakes, English isn’t the language I speak everyday !)
Doe Deere Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 7:08 pm
Already on it! ;)
Rickey Reply:
October 28, 2009 at 9:51 am
YESSSS!!!!
I glad you did well an stuck firm to your ideas and plans. if you conformed to the beige realm I think a lot of people would have been disheartened. You are amazing and keep up the great work
Society doesn’t condone those who think, and least of all, those who think twelve billion light years outside of the box. I think you’ll encounter that sort of reaction from most designers, but for each “mainstream” rejection you get, consider it a medal of honor. When the mainstream disapproves, you know you’re doing something right.
Hendrix Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 1:57 pm
I think I have to disagree with this, to a point. While there definitely is a part of society that wears very expensive beige all the time and wouldn’t dare wear Doe’s colours, “society” in general is getting younger every day. The popularity of styles like Lady Gaga’s and American Apparel speak to that, and avant-garde high fashion is hardly average, but still looked up to by countless young fashionistas. I think the sheer number of fans of Doe’s blog and cosmetics — and the millions of other unique fashion blogs out there — says that society does approve of creativity, even if it’s not the beige-wearing part.
Whether or not your makeup sells to fancy department stores, Doe, the young, the playful, the experimental — all of us! — will always be interested and supportive.
Gemma Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 2:23 pm
Very well articulated, Hendrix. Additionally, designers who dictate runway looks and thus fashion trends, have an undeniable interest in the avant-garde. Take, for example, Betsey Johnson. Furthermore, in countries like Japan, this type of avant-garde fashion is practically the norm! There is definitely a market and an interest in this type of product.
On the flipside, I also see Amber’s point-of-view because while there are many who appreciate the fashion-forwardness of Lady Gaga and we are indeed seeing gold, leopard print tights at Express, there are still thing such as workplace dress codes that will hinder blue lipstick from becoming the norm.
There are two sides to every coin-great discussion, ladies!
Hendrix Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 4:41 pm
Yeah, I feel like we’re getting to a point where we can’t “stick it to the man” anymore because even “the man” is getting more and more open to creative dressing. Professional work environments and places that require specific clothes for image reasons nonwithstanding, having a unique style is acceptable, even admired, out in public because young people are really taking pride in their appearances. And as this generation becomes “the man” of the future, I think this can only go up.
Doe Deere Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 7:11 pm
I think it’s actually a good thing that blue lipstick is currently NOT the norm (and I doubt it ever will be). It’s fun to be mischievous and break the rules every once in a while. :)
strawberry lemonade girl Reply:
November 1, 2009 at 9:02 pm
All great points! Our world isn’t black and white (or blue and beige???). I’d also like to point out that NOT wearing blue lipstick doesn’t mean you aren’t adventurous or bold. I think all the Candyfuture colors are amazing. I adore the packaging, I wear lots of wild, clashing, colors….but to be honest, blue lips stick isn’t my cup of tea. I don’t find it flattering on me (or on most! Doe of course the exception) and doubt I’d ever wear it. Doesn’t mean I consider myself “normal” or someone who would wear beige. I agree with Doe’s comment that it’s good it isn’t the norm! I love it as a more special color that a few unique people choose to wear! Who wants everyone to look alike? : -)
If I wanted a usual color, I would just go buy one of the hundred other cheaper and more accessible lipsticks out there at drugstores or department stores. I am willing to go OUT OF MY WAY TO preorder online and pay $16 plus shipping and trust the flaky postal man for YOUR lipsticks because I can’t get those ANYWHERE. Please don’t sell out for Henry Bendel. I love your colors.
Doe Deere Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 7:11 pm
Thank you Gemma! I promise to stay true to my mission. xo
You consider 60F to be brutally cold?! No way!
Today I made a trip to a nearby pharmacy to buy some new makeup, ((Going to be testing out NYX’s Doll Eye mascara later, woohoo!)) And it was about 45F out … And I was happy because this is WARM compared to the 30F weather we had the last few weeks! I was actually a bit warm in my hoodie and had to push up the sleeves as I was strolling along, haha … But then again, this IS Canada. :P
As for the semi-rejection from Henry Bendel, don’t you worry about it! You just keep manufacturing those amazing lipcolours on your own — Who needs to sell ‘em in a live store when you’re probably making loads of money online anyway! :)
I’d never want to see a single beige or a sheer pink in Ms Doe Deere’s line. No sir, no how. Bring on the insane oranges and the blinding yellows any day! ;)
Doe Deere Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 7:12 pm
Maybe it was colder than that. Then again, if you’re wearing a skirt everything seems colder haha!
You know what, if the big stores are too cowardly to share your aweseomeness on their shelves, then screw ‘em.
What you CAN do is to expand your line to more types of products (glosses, blush, foundation, etc) and open your own storefront in NYC. That’ll catch on for sure.
Doe Deere Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 7:13 pm
That would be really cool, to own a Lime Crime store. Hmmm, I wonder what color the walls would be…..
Kimbi Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 10:12 pm
I’m sure each wall would be a different and VERY vivid color! I love looking at your site. Being in my 40′s, I’m too chicken sh*t to wear your colors, but I still love looking at them.
Andrea Reply:
October 28, 2009 at 1:54 pm
Mint green with pink polka dots saturated with holographic glitter…and cupcakes lamps all over the store….for starts
Clara Reply:
October 29, 2009 at 10:29 am
Don’t forget a giant holographic unicorn on at least one wall. Got to have one of them.
I think this was a good practice run for you.
If there is any way possible to get some real numbers/facts – like who is your color competition and where are they being sold and maybe even sales stats (would take some digging) – people working for the bottom line love cold hard numbers.
Only problem with the competition is that it looks great in the package but their color saturation is so weak and the texture is just terrible. Yeah, anyone can go to Hot Topic and get a lime green lipstick or eyeshadow but it’s waxy/chalky. Can you actually invest in those crap brands and be able to show someone first hand why yours is superior, side by side?
I really think you have something wonderful here. The only luck I’ve had with super brights was a Sephora brand blindingly pink lipstick a few years ago and an Ana Sui red shadow that still wasn’t as saturated as I would’ve have liked but, that was all I could find.
Maybe you can convince a store like Hot Topic that your line is better than what they offer. Although I’m sure you would rather be carried by someone more upscale. It’s hard to get taken seriously when everyone wants to play it safe.
Good luck to you!
xoxo
ShannonM Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 4:21 pm
“It’s hard to get taken seriously when everyone wants to play it safe.”
Yes yes! Playing it safe can get so boring, but because a lot of people want to look “normal”, companies pander to them and produce more beige, brown and nude-pinks. Sure those are ok if that is what you want, but it what you want is color pay off that does a “boom-pow” of color, that is not really going to work for you.
Doe Deere Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 7:20 pm
We’ve actually been approached by Hot Topic before, but didn’t sign the deal because it didn’t sit right with me. I think Hot Topic is a great store but cater to a different audience than mine. While my customer is a makeup connoisseur who cares a great deal about quality, Hot Topic is mostly for young kids who want to look cool.
Kelly Reply:
October 28, 2009 at 1:27 am
Though I understand your hesitation to sign a deal with Hot Topic, I really wish you had. Hot Topic would mean that your products would be more easily accessible and if the young kids want to “look cool” who is to say they should not simply because of their ages?
That being said, I like to stop in at Hot Topic every now and again simply because they do break the boundaries for a typical mall store and sell things you cannot find elsewhere.
For instance, my last purchase there was a Where the Wild Things Are shirt. :] The only other place I have seen those are online and I’m not a huge fan of purchasing products, especially clothing, online.
Lara Reply:
October 28, 2009 at 10:27 am
kids seem to rule the market… they are spoiled to some extent, have disposable cash with no real responsibilities, and have the added social pressure to be “cool”.
Totally understand not wanting to get stuck in that narrow “scene” though. The stores that end up carrying you will at least in some small way shape your brand’s image and I know you want to be taken seriously by people who truly appreciate a well-made cosmetic line that performs.
With blogging getting more respect these days, your blog’s popularity alone could help you get your foot in the door.
Sam, L Reply:
October 28, 2009 at 6:35 am
I think you should have signed with hot topic, at least your product would have been more out there and maybe a lot of kids who want to look ‘cool’ do shop their, but atlest they have the courage to wear bright make up and be unapologetic about it.
I love your makeup. I wear it every chance I get. I hate that society forces us to conform to such a dull existence.
It’s the determination that you have now that will bring even more success with your line.
Obviously, there is great demand for wonderful, great quality products that stand out or your first wave of lipsticks would not have sold out so quickly.
People want different and unique and bold and NOT BEIGE so, don’t worry, I promise you that admirers for your line are increasing every day.
Hang in there and keep this wonderful confidence in your line that you have always.
But really, you didn’t need me to tell you that, you already knew it. :)
Some people just aren’t ready for this kind of makeup. But I am sure that you are going to be successful in your makeup. Keep up all the good work. *gives you support*
Doe Deere Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 7:22 pm
Thanks for the support! :)
Cool blog, I’m guessing its great advice but i wouldn’t know. But it reminds me a bit of standing in line to be an extra in Transformers 2. We stood in line for like 2 hrs (thank god they were only kitten heels) and I didn’t ever get a call. But in the end nobody made it into the film, i still wish I’d had the experience and made the money though. =( At least I didn’t have to do a pitch, just take a photo.
There will be stores who aren’t afraid of your colours soon enough, I just hope the stores are what YOU want! And Doe if you ever made brown lipstick you already know I wouldn’t buy it! I get my bronze lipstick at the drugstore for $2! If you’re going to pay a department store price shouldn’t it be something special?!
Makes me love your products all the more. :)
Who wants boring same-as-any-other-brand lipsticks?
fools, if they want “usual colours” they can have them from any brand. lime crime is supposed to be unique!! i LOVE your colours, they are awesome. Keep on doing daring things! Those who dare will finally stand out in the endless crowd of boring lipstick-producers!
I love your attitude, Doe! You are so inspiring. I can’t believe so many people would be skeptical of such bright colors… but that’s why it’s so great we live in this day and age. You are in total control of your line, and don’t have to equivocate to anyone who is scared of brightness and fun!
So I asked my mom “if you were under 35 again what colours would you wear of these?” (the lipsticks) she said 4, all the pinks and the red. She says that she’d only wear blue or black on Halloween. But even back in the 80′s my mom wasn’t much for bright make-up more of an earthy-shimmer type. But my point is that if pushing 49 yr. old mom could see herself rocking Centrifushia when she was your age it’s got to count for something!
*note: I said “under 35″ because my mom thinks she’s too old for EVERYTHING! LOL
Doe Deere Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 7:24 pm
Haha, I love mom stories. I always ask my mom (and sister) what they would wear or not. In the end, it’s all very subjective – what one person would consider wearable to the office, the other would only wear to a party!
I feel like your brand will eventually make it into a Sephora like place. The closest they have to your line is Make Up For Ever and Urban Decay, which both carry really bright and fun colors which a lot of people do buy. Your line is different, obviously but I feel like I can expect to see a “Lime Crime” section there someday.
Doe Deere Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 7:24 pm
I definitely think Sephora would be a great fit for us.
I don’t think you should stop making unusual colors at all but I do feel you will get the same reaction from most retailers simply because they are unusual colors. I’m sure they think the majority of people wouldn’t be able to wear some of those colors on a daily basis. It a shame that most of us can’t get away with wearing bright blue or orange lipstick at the office but the reality is most of us can’t. It’s it not wearable to the majority of peopel that shop at their store, they are not going to take the risk of selling your product. I think you will have better luck selling your product at more alternative type of stores. More independent botique or retail chains like hot topic. I also think Sephora may be a great retailer for you.
Hendrix Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 4:33 pm
Honestly, I would love to see more pinks, mauves, plums, and other wearable colours from Lime Crime, simply because I’d much rather purchase from an independent entrepreneur who is close to her target market than a faceless department store. Even though I’m not into bright orange or blue, lol.
Justine Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 4:44 pm
I agree. I’m in it more for the fact that this product is sold by an independent entrepreneur who puts thought and love into her products. Also, I won’t forget its rational, functionality aspect – they are pretty pigmented and I wouldn’t mind a very pigmented nude…
Shayne Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 4:45 pm
I agree! I would much rather support a small business then a huge retailer too.
Doe Deere Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 7:25 pm
Awww thank you guys!!
ShannonM Reply:
October 28, 2009 at 9:39 am
Dito.
shayne Reply:
October 28, 2009 at 12:28 pm
One thing I would like you to do though is put your lipstick ingredients on your site or at least label the lipstick colors that are vegan. I try to only buy animal friendly & vegan products and there are some ingredients like carmine (made my boiling dried insects) for instance that isn’t vegan. This is why I liek Urab Decay so much. They label what is vegan or not.
Hi Doe!
I think Bendel wants to make sure they make money and it’s hard to have an innovative idea and then try to market it mainstream…but you have your first run SELL OUT! That’s a marketing miracle. I’d love to distribute Lime Crime via my site- I know it would be a hit here in Utah.
What’s funny is that the best ideas usually get turned down and then someone picks up on it and voila- a hit! Julia Childs got her cookbook turned down…Lincoln failed at American office over 20 times…Einstein flunked school…Doe- your makeup will change cosmetics one blue/peach/yellow lip at a time and I’ll be in line to buy it and sell it!
Keep at it, you’re going the right way- YOUR way!
Tianne
try to get some local boutiques and hip hair salons to carry it. send samples to the review staff on magazines (which you’ve probably already done). set up a booth at conventions (not just cosmetic ones, but anime conventions, whatever). send samples to hot topic or torrid, i can definitely see them carrying it.
Samantha Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 3:55 pm
Selling at anime conventions is a great idea! I wish I thought of it myself. Honey, cosplayers are something like we are. They’re eccentric and damn proud of it.
Not only anime conventions, but cartoon conventions, too. There are some underground Superhero women rocking bright lips, and I bet those cosplayers are looking for something just like it!
Shayne Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 4:47 pm
And comic conventions! There are always ones going on around NYC and there is a HUGE one in San Diego each year.
Elrodien Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 5:15 pm
i should know! i’m going to a cosplay party next month and by wearing styletto i’ll definately stick out of all the other “Misas” there!
and imagine wonder woman with golden lipstick on….id just love to see some golden lipstick in the expansion…
Gretch-Fetch Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 8:31 pm
Also, as far as the NYC area goes, there are lots of boutiques which would love to carry crazy colors! Going for the obvious one first, Trash and Vaudeville would probably be all for Lime Crime (especially Styletto and No She Didn’t). There are a few other places in the Village but I’m blanking on their names…and there’s gotta be SOMETHING in Brooklyn. And what about really “girly” places like Babeland and Agent Provocateur?
Don’t forget MAC’s popularity or Urban Decay’s! Their products are (or were, with MAC) insanely pigmented, like yours. The younger generation is starting to experiment with colors, inspired by Paramore and Betsey Johnson, and especially Lady Gaga! Huge bows are even getting popular in my small Ohio town. One cheerleader at my school is rocking a bright silver glitter eyeshadow every day, and I have a feeling it’ll catch. :)
Xenia- I just wanted to tell you that i received my two lippies yesterday (No She Didn’t + D’lilac) and was totally impressed! I mostly bought NSD because i needed to see it in person, but hopefully i’ll actually get around to wearing it to a party or something. :O) D’lilac is GORGEOUS and is what i’ve been looking for colour wise for SO long. I bought Mac’s Lavender Whip when it came out hoping to finally quench my thirst for Lilac, but it never really worked.. your lilac is PERFECT.
Just thought you’d like to know <3
brown is boring! blue is the best!! keep up with the great work!
I kind of disagree with the whole fear of color thing, neons and crazy prints, patterns and colors are totally in style! At least eyeshadow and clothing-wise. It definitely took awhile (I used to get crazy looks for wearing eyeshadow in general in high school, let alone bright colors! now its in style), but people are loving colors right now, at least in Northeast Ohio. But for some reason people ARE afraid of bright lipsticks.
And sadly, from a money making point of view, they probably wanted products that more people would be likely to buy, because unfortunately people just don’t wear blue lipstick every day =[.
I'm kind of curious as to why you didn't take in your eyeshadow too?
Go you for going there, braving the cold and going there! Keep trying =] Don’t give up, I know you won’t! You don’t need Henri Bendel to do what you’re doing anyways ;], you’re awesome!
While I totally understand and support your perspective, I think having more “wearable” ie “normal” colors could enhance your line.
Go Doe! Please, please don’t give in to the ‘mainstream,’ the ‘normal,’ the ‘natural’ looks. Your bright colors and admittedly out-there looks inspired me to go from a shy, dark-wardrobed 16 year old to the fashion-strutting, sexy college student I am now! If you had just been going along with everyone else, I would never have known how bright my candyfuture could be. Keep fighting for color!
“I wholeheartedly believe that by overcoming the fear of being different, we evolve”
you couldnt be more right about this! and usually…the things that cause us to be afraid are the ones that are most worth it anyway.
i’love to see some more “wearable” shades from you too but with you own special “doe-twist”!
i want to see some golden lipstick (matte, not shimmery as ive said before) i’d love to try a deep blueish/petrolish one, my heart would flutter for a pale coral with golden iridescense….
go for it! you now you’ve got what it takes… ;) xoxo
As long as you have your customers support, that’s all you need! :) When larger stores start seeing a demand for it, they will supply it. None of the really awesome, unique designers and makeup lines ever got anywhere listening to what the big wigs told them to do. ;)
Pleas post your whole outfit please! I am dying to see what you wore! Don’t let them get you down as cliche as it sounds please don’t change your line! Who needs more of the usual crap. I love your line because it looks like it’s make believe, not something I can purchase at any drug/department store!
I heart you!
Dear, don’t worry! If we wanted less opaque lipsticks and eyeshadows we’d buy them elsewere..
No, we want wicked colors, stuff for people who aren’t afraid of colors..
So don’t be disappointed, we still love you! ^^
You said it beautifully, “I am not committed to making exclusively unwearable colors, that’s not my mission. My goal is to make unusual colors, something you won’t find at a regular store, and I don’t see why some of them can’t be wearable.”
Refusing to sell out doesn’t mean your expansion pack has to be nothing but No She Didn’t look-a-likes. Even your pinks are unusual because they are so pigmented.
The vast majority of girls on campus wear sweat pants/hoodies or jeans/t-shirts and little or no makeup. So here even your more “wearable” colors would get a lot stares.
I think if you made lots of unusual yet wearable colors with a healthy sprinkling of crazy colors your line would blossom. I can’t wait until I have enough money to afford some of your beautiful colors!
Surely narrow-mindedness and stagnation is the exact antithesis of what a cosmetic company should be going for?! I thought the market for the plain coloured cosmetics was already oversaturated, so why one would ask for ‘normal’ colours is beyond me.
Sadly many people will continue to cling to their browns, beiges and muted pinks for the rest of their life; though I believe there is a niche in the market where brightly coloured and fabulous cosmetics such as these will excel. Promotion, innovation and effort over time will more than likely pay off in the long run. :)
Yea, I don’t think it will really matter if department stores aren’t brave enough for your line. Places like Sephora already have such a variety of the different colors so they might be good.
I’m glad you’re not giving up! I think makeup needs more people like you! I’m tired of seeing the same sorts of colors and packaging being repromoted! I want somethings bold! I’m glad you’re out there!
I think that you will come up against this until you find someone who’s willing and ready to take a risk. Your line is amazing, but since it seems not to have broad appeal, sellers will probably prefer something more mainstream-friendly. You never know, though. You’ve come this far and I’m sure there are plenty of people out there willing to be convinced!
Hve you heard of Lauren Luke? She started on YouTube and has a line in Sephora now – it’s all designed to be very “muted” and “wearable” of course.
http://www.sephora.com/browse/brand_hierarchy.jhtml?brandId=Lauren+Luke&searchString=lauren%20luke
Doe Deere Reply:
October 27, 2009 at 6:55 pm
Of course I know Lauren Luke, I was just checking out her palettes at Sephora. :) They may be mutes and wearable but I was very impressed with the pigmentation of her shadows. Good job, Lauren!
Thanks for the words of support, guys! You’re amazing…
Some of the colors in the expansion are going to be very wearable, but still on the edgy side. I think I’m getting better at creating color in general, realizing there is much more to it than brightness to the max – many more nuances to play with. You’ll see what I mean very soon. :)
Ruth Reply:
October 28, 2009 at 6:37 am
Have you ever wondered what yellow or atleast pink, red or purple tinted with yellow would look like as lipstick? It’s very dreamy.
I think nail polish can be pretty inspirational colour wise, it is pretty amazing the different colours some nail polishes capture. Like the blacks that have hints of red or purple. Or the blue with hints of red.
You are the shit. Hands down. I love you <3
I was also wondering what colors you’re wearing. Is that airborne unicorn? And whatever eyeshadow you’re wearing is very bright!
it’s so inspiring to me how you stay true to yourself. your products are fantastic because they are so unique! don’t sell out (i know you won’t) :) honestly, i think all your hard work will pay off big time someday!
Doe Deere, Please remember that some of the most revolutionary figures in all of history and fashion especially were scoffed at, put down, and discouraged as to never continue with their work, but if they did they would never had the chance to make the impact that they did, and this rings true for you too! You’re going to change makeup all together, you just have to find the crack in the door and bust it down! Never give up!
Love CK