Backstage Beautifying At TonyCohen F/W 2010 For Mercedes-Benz New York Fashion Week

Here is a rundown of the beauty behind the scenes at the TonyCohen F/W 2010 collection showing.

Hair: Hair was done by Cutler for Redken. Staci Child, one of the head stylists stopped to talk to me about the overall look. She described the up dos as a incorporating a low, soft French Twist with leather ropes sewn in to add an element of toughness. Cutler Specialist Definition Cream was used on the top portion of the hair to give it a "dirtier, not too finished" appearance. A younger, softer vibe was attained, with built-in texture. Other products used to complete the look were Cutler Specialist Volumizing Spray and Redken Workforce 09 Flexible Volumizing Spray. The style was intended to look as if the models did their hair themselves.

Makeup: Napoleon Perdis and his team of MUAs created the look for the show, which Napoleon himself described as "tough chic." It was all about a strong eye, more specifically a "square smokey eye," juxtaposed upon flawless skin. To achieve a smooth complexion, Napoleon used his Triple Peptide Serum and Boudoir Mist (airbrush foundation). Lashes were big as well. They were deepened up to create a romantic feel using Mesmer-Eyes. For the lips, Napoleon favored "terracotta" hues. He used a new lipstick (available May '10 everywhere Napoleon Perdis products are sold) named after his daughter (how sweet!), called "Lianna." It is a beautiful and luxurious nude, caramel color, very rich and stunning, and will be an addition to his DeVine Goddess Collection. The lipstick was topped with "Hot Toffee" Luminous Lip Veil. The cheeks were left bare. Brows were strong and filled in with an eyebrow pencil in Suede, a blonde-tone that was brushed into the hair.

Lip combination

Nails: China Glaze manicurists did the models' nails in the shade "Gussied Up Green," a gorgeous deep green shade with subtle shimmer, unfortunately discontinued from the line's Rodeo Diva collection. The dark, shimmery hue was chosen to complement the colors of the clothing. It was also intended to create a pop of color, standing out through the lace gloves donned by some of the models. It was nice to see a bold nail as it was a departure from the nude nail I had seen previously.

For products, see www.redken.com, www.cutlersalon.com, and www.napoleonperdis.com.