Tom Pecheux may not be a household name, but he’s at the epicentre of the beauty world. And for good reason: he’s painted some of the world’s most famous faces and masterminded catwalk looks for the likes of Chanel and Saint Laurent. Now, his career has culminated in the appointment of YSL Global Beauty Director. We spoke to him about make-up, his muses and more...
What’s the best thing about your job?
I’ve been incredibly lucky to work with the industry’s finest, and while lots of things change, I always enjoy projects and shoots with the two people that gave me my big break, Mario Testino and Carine Roitfeld. When it comes to celebrities though, I loved painting Madonna’s face for 10 years, and my encounter with Princess Diana still gives me goose bumps to this day. She had an indescribable aura.
How does it feel to be YSL’s Global Beauty Director?
Being French, the fashion house holds a special place in my heart. I have the utmost respect for Yves Saint Laurent. He will be a master forever, not only for his fashion, but also for his creativity, irreverence and sophistication. I am so honoured that I hold the beauty baton, I want to bring colour and confidence to women the world over.
To what do you attribute your success?
Quite simple: love, respect and honesty. The latter is most important. Honesty is always the best policy, although too much and I land myself in trouble. But staying true to myself is more important that ruffling feathers and I am fine with that.
What does your make-up kit look like?
You may be surprised to hear that it’s very small and compact. Living in Paris, my scooter is my primary mode of transport – I zip from place to place, and my kit must fit in my hold. This doesn’t of course, mean that I compromise on quality. Everything is beautiful, but it’s also durable – there’s nothing worse than breaks and spills. If I had my own brand, I would ensure everything was practical, square, light and unbreakable.
What products could you not live without?
YSL Beauty Touche Eclat Glow Shot in Sunset (£22), YSL Beauty Top Secrets Natural Action Exfoliator (£33) and YSL Beauty Top Secrets Instant Moisture Glow (£35).
Tell us about your famous mascot, Pascal.
My partner gave me Pascal [a white plastic toy] as a present eight years ago, and I grew quite fond of him. When I began taking him backstage at fashion week, my assistants would paint his face with the same look as the models, which provided ample selfie opportunities for them. Having had pictures with Cara, Kendall, Gigi, Rihanna and Miley, he’s kind of famous now. Follow him on Insta @pascalpascale.
What are your thoughts on YouTube beauty?
I know it’s divisive, but there is room for everyone. We should celebrate all forms of creativity. Of course, there are some tutorials I like, and would watch more than others. What I am averse to however, is all these ‘get the look’ Kim Kardashian videos. Young girls are impressionable and we shouldn’t homogenise something as artistic and idiosyncratic as beauty.
Who inspires you?
Anyone who has talent! I am in awe of artists, but I am talking real artists – you see, it’s easy to come, but it’s harder to stay.
Who would you three dream dinner party guests be?
Kate Moss would certainly be one. Her vibe is like no other, and she’s a guaranteed good time girl. I am allowed to say that, because my second would also be my beloved partner. The third, is a woman I have just met but totally adore, called Kate McKinnon. She’s played Hillary Clinton on Saturday Night Live during the election – a total genius!
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