Nolcha Fashion Week Spring Summer 2012 – A "Behind the Scenes" Beauty Backstage

Now in its 5th year, Nolcha Fashion Week has become the hub for independent fashion designers and emerging brands to showcase their work during Fashion Week. Held at the Metropolitan Pavilion, Nolcha hosts runway presentations, a Pop-Up Showroom, and a Beauty Oasis for pampering in between shows.

I had the pleasure to getting some much-needed pampering during Fashion Week with the folks from Kiss Nails, and got to sample an array of products from VitaBath, Kiss, and LipSyl lip balms. Nail techs were on hand to apply fake French tips and apply false lashes for guests.



VitaBath gave away samples of their wide array of body products, from body washes to lotions. To me, pampering begins in the shower, and I always love adding to my collection of fragrance-infused body washes and lotions. VitaBath’s ingredients range from Angelica extracts (derived from Chinese angelica), citrus flavors, and natural sea kelp.

LipSyl was on hand giving away samples of its pure beeswax lip balm. Founded in 1905, Lipsyl has been creating lip products containing natural ingredients such as shea butter and coconut oil, infused with Vitamin A & E. What’s unique about the product is the oval-shaped applicator and a little knob at the end to bring up more product (and bring it down if it’s too much!). With winter coming, it’s very necessary to keep lips hydrated.

Lipsyl Exhibit at Nolcha Fashion Week

I had no idea Kiss had a line of lashes, so I was immediately hooked! Since my lashes are so short, any type of lash extensions will do! One of their consultants applied their Premium Eyelashes that contained strings on both ends for easy application. As a makeup artist, I was intrigued since applying them can be a challenge, especially on the ends.

Kiss False Eyelashes

Application is as easy as 1-2-3:

1) Apply the lash adhesive to the band using Kiss Strip Eyelash Adhesive. Wait about 30-60 seconds so the glue will become a bit tacky (so the lashes can bond to the eyelid right away).

2) Hold the two strings taut and apply the lash, starting from the outer corner. Stay close to the natural lashline so it blends well with the lashes.

3) Secure your finger on the corner lash and gently pull the string away. Repeat on the other side.

Before false lashes

After false lashes

Bonus Tip: Once the glue dries, apply 1-2 coats of mascara to blend the natural lashes to the strip for an even wider-eyed look.

-Genevieve A. Santos

Genevieve A. Santos is a beauty quadruple-threat—makeup artist, entrepreneur, cosmetics marketer and creator of the Gorgeous on the Go blog. Follow her escapades on Twitter