The beauty landscape has changed dramatically over the last decade–it’s more inclusive and dynamic than ever and has something to offer to everyone who steps in. For this special issue, Beauty Unplugged we spoke to global experts and trend creators about how they’ve helped shape the industry, what it means to be in the business in current times and how the landscape has changed.
I met Peter Philips at the Dior Fall 2023 showcase in Mumbai earlier this year. Although our conversation revolved around the backstage hustle and mood board for the show, I’ve always been intrigued to know more about his take on beauty. Here, Philips spills the beans on his beauty predictions, favourite products, and hacks we all must learn.
ELLE: If you had to choose your favourite product from Dior, what would it be?
Peter Philips (PP): It’s a tough choice, but I’d go with our beautiful Dior Lip Glow Oil–a magnificent product that pleases everyone.
ELLE: How do you feel about beauty trends?
PP: I don’t mind trends; they show curiosity and passion for make-up. I do mind how some people feel obligated to follow them; that shouldn’t be the case. If you like a trend, you should play with it, try it out and see if it fits you. But don’t feel forced to follow them.
ELLE: What recent beauty technology has captured your attention?
PP: It’s already pretty big, but the merging of skincare and make-up is fabulous. We’ve been working on this concept for years by including more and more skin-loving ingredients in our make-up products, and it’s wonderful.
ELLE: What are some of the beauty dos that you swear by?
PP: Build up a simple skincare and make-up routine and be disciplined with taking make-up off at the end of the day.
ELLE: When and how did your interest in makeup begin?
PP: I always loved to observe people who had a look on. It would fascinate me. It could be a sophisticated older lady with full hair and make-up or a kid with spiky hair and bold eyeliner. The power of make-up, hairspray and styling is fascinating. This fascination was the beginning of my interest in this field.
ELLE: When you work on creating a look, what do you base it on?
PP: It depends on what the platform is. Creating a look for a diverse cast of models for a fashion show differs from doing so for an editorial or red carpet. But in essence, it’s about balance, never too much but consistently enough.
ELLE: What was the first beauty product that caught your eye and why?
PP: Probably my mom’s eyeshadow palettes and mascara. She used to do her makeup every morning–quickly and efficiently, and I loved to watch her do it.
Find ELLE’s latest issue on stands or download your digital copy here.
Also read, Beauty Unplugged: Charlotte Tilbury In Conversation With ELLE India