We can find inspiration in just about anything.  A rose petal, inspired us to create a face tonic.  A braid inspired us to research the history of hair styles. Romantic dresses floating in the spring breeze inspired us as we analyzed perfumes. Being in the Art and Business of Cosmetics course for three weeks inspired and educated us to understand how it all begins and how it all ends in a final product ready for the consumer.

Breaking down a scent into the three levels of notes was fascinating.  I will never take a scent for granted again!  Can a scent be both freeing and mature, breezy and feminine? It certainly can.  My partner and I created an inspiration board for a perfume called Spring Breeze.

The highlight this week was our class field trip to Bluemercury. The owners graciously opened their store for us early so that we could get a sense of their marketing approach and the products that they sell.

Here are some of the products Bluemercury sells and that the owners so generously gave us as gifts.

I had to put the creative side of my brain on hold for a bit as I listened intently to their story of how Bluemercury started.  A tremendous amount of time and hard work is required to start a cosmetics business.  There is so much to learn.

My wonderful FIT experience has come to an end.  My days at FIT went by so quickly that I cannot believe it is almost August.  Every day was enlightening and educational.  The students in my class were delightful and I look forward to staying in touch with them.

– Sasha Worenklein