On a recent trip to Paris I only had a mere 24 hours in the city, so although I was sticking to a tight work schedule, a trip to the chicest, coolest department store in France was a must. Colette, situated on the famous Rue Saint-Honoré, is a hub of the latest high fashion trends, mixed with the eclectic mix of edgy street labels. It houses everything from tech to travel to beauty and fashion, so if you haven’t visited yet, it’s time to get it on your bucket list, pronto.
What we love most about the store is the unique collaborations and exclusive products, especially in the realm of beauty. Their latest launch (in-store from 5 December 2016) is a partnership with make-up brand Eyeko. Keen to know more about it, we quizzed Sarah Andelman, co-founder and creative director of Colette, for her business advice, simplistic Parisian beauty tips and how she created such a discerning edit for us all to share.
Can you tell us a little bit about your career and how you started Colette?
I co-founded Colette with my mum in 1997, when I was just 20 years old. I am the buyer, creative director and many other things.
What do you think sets the store apart from other departments stores around the world?
We don’t have any corners of the store dedicated to a particular brand, we mix everybody together, and we change what’s in store every week.
What has been your biggest challenge?
To try and re-invent the store day after day, but that’s what’s so enjoyable at the same time!
Who has been the most exciting person visit Colette?
We prefer to respect their privacy, but I do remember a parrot walking through the door, and that was very exciting!
And who hasn't yet been that would be a real honour for you to go to walk through the doors?
The Dalai Lama!
Colette now collaborates with such major brands - how do the partnerships come about, and how long does it take to develop from the first initial idea to it being in store?
It’s always very simple and is made in an organic way between the brand and ourselves. It depends of the products - it can be very quick or terribly long.
Where do you look for inspiration, new brands and unique partnerships?
Everywhere. In the street, on Instagram, on the web, during my travels. Everything can be inspiring.
Tell us about the collaboration with Eyeko…
Being a no-makeup girl, I’m so thankful to Eyeko for creating the first mascara I can actually wear! It’s impressively easy to apply and it doesn’t smudge or run even when I rub my eyes. I forget that I’m even wearing mascara.
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This is Colette’s first mascara partnership, why now?
Why not? We’ve been working with Eyeko since 2013 and I’m surprised we didn’t do our own mascara with them earlier. We have already created a lipstick in the past with cosmetics brand Ed Bess, and nail polish with Uslu Airlines, so this felt like the next step for us.
How important is mascara to you in your everyday beauty regime?
The eyes are the most important part of the face, so it’s nice to make them even more visible.
**What drew you to launch a mascara with Eyeko, over the other brands you have in the store? **
I like their identity, their approach to the market, and their ambassador, Alexa Chung.
What makes this mascara different?
It is just so simple and easy to apply.
Who do you turn to for business advice?
My mother always.
What's the best advice you've been given that you'll always remember?
Nothing is impossible.
