On an overcast day in June, an array of beauty products and gadgets welcomed the jurors of the 13th edition of the ELLE Beauty Awards at the Olive Bar & Kitchen, Bandra. They spent the afternoon spritzing, swatching and testing products in search of the best formulas. Dermatologists Dr Jamuna Pai and Dr Kiran Sethi looked up ingredient lists with a critical eye and emphasised the importance of the right application techniques. Make-up artists Cory Walia and Deepa Verma favoured multi-purpose make-up with skincare benefits. Hairstylist Natasha Naegamvala picked outshampoos and conditioners that were tailored to Indian hair needs.
After a long day of deliberating, the jury left with a specially curated gift bag that included travel essentials by Paper Design Co, Teabox’s finest Darjeeling tea, artisanal breads by Qualia and a box of bonbons by Ether Atelier Chocolat.
Photographs: Kedar Nene
