Takae Kochigami(Holistic Beauty Director ・化粧史家／5.cinq.)
Profile & Research
After graduating from university, I completed all professional makeup courses in Japan. I then moved to the United States to gain a broader perspective and further skills in makeup. After completing all professional courses including special effects makeup in Los Angeles, I worked as a freelance makeup artist, contributing to still photography, music videos, stage productions, and films.
Upon returning to Japan, I joined L'Oréal Japan. As an international makeup artist for the company's brands, Lancôme, Giorgio Armani, and Helena Rubinstein, I played a key role in introducing the concepts and techniques of makeup collections to Japan. In particular, at Giorgio Armani Cosmetics, I was involved in backstage operations directed by Armani himself, and produced everything from product development concept planning and customer service management to event planning and operation for the introduction of products to the Japanese market.
Later, I was headhunted by the Chanel Paris headquarters makeup studio. I joined the company after being scouted by Dominique Moncourtois, the Chanel makeup director personally hired by Coco Chanel. I apprenticed under Dominique, serving as his right-hand woman until his retirement. In 2006, I became an Executive Makeup Artist. Working with the Paris makeup studio team, I worked to bring new product development and makeup techniques to Japan, conducting interviews, photo shoots, various press events, and backstage activities. I also led and mentored Chanel makeup artists in the Japanese market, creating educational programs and evaluation systems for beauty consultants.
In 2015, I became independent. Based on my experience and data from applying makeup to over 3,000 people, I have established a unique makeup therapy that brings out women's beauty and inner richness. While conducting seminars and consulting for the beauty and apparel industries, I currently focus my activities on makeup instruction and media appearances.