For example, "A woman who doesn't lose her staying power is beautiful."

—Ms. Fujiwara, you enjoy writing, don't you? You even write your own column, "COLOR of LIFE: Essay and a story," for OPENERS.

Actually, I don't really like writing (laughs). But, since my 20s, I've been able to explain makeup in a theoretical way. Of course, I start with an image, but when the makeup is complete, I can explain it logically.

—You've published over 20 books, including this one. What's special about "Michiko Fujiwara's New Book of Life Quotes 5: Happy Women Look Different with Makeup!"?

This book compiles my statements from my own books, as well as interviews for fashion and beauty magazines where I've worked as a makeup artist, divided into three chapters: "Women's Lifestyles," "Women's Makeup Techniques," and "Women's Happiness." These are basically things I felt at the moment or beliefs I expressed according to the theme. Some are about 10 years old, and when I reread them, I can't help but recall my past self.

—Could you give us an example?

Let's see, for example, "The secret to staying beautiful—it's not giving up on yourself" (page 52).

It's not just women, but as people age, they tend to think, "Oh well, I'm just me..." But the moment you think that, you start rolling down a hill. It's very easy to let go, but it's really hard to sustain.
Humans easily accept bad things and easy things. But good habits are hard to acquire, aren't they? That's why, because everyone is weak, I believe that beauty lasts if you have a conviction, even just one thing! If you always have pride, I think it shows in your expression, your work, and your life.

Michiko Fujiwara's Secrets to Makeup

—Who would you like to read this book?

From the time I started working with hair and makeup artists, I've always thought of makeup as something that enhances a person's inner self. That's why I look into the eyes of the person wearing the makeup.
For example, someone might look feminine on the outside but have a strong will or be delicate on the inside. The goal is to bring that out through makeup and express their inner self clearly.
There aren't any specific how-tos or theories. I've learned how to draw out a person's inner self through feelings, experiences, and accumulated knowledge from wanting to make them beautiful.
I would be happy if this book resonates with people in their 20s who admire older women, those in their 30s struggling with work, and those in their 40s and beyond who are starting to give up.

—Thank you very much.

"Michiko Fujiwara's New Book of Life Quotes 5: Happy Women Look Different with Makeup!"
Shogakukan
Shinsho format / 1260 yen (tax included)


Michiko Fujiwara, a hair and makeup artist who is overwhelmingly popular among working women and highly supported by many actresses. The secret to her popularity lies in her elegant makeup and her own cool way of life, which she upholds with conviction. Ms. Fujiwara, who says, "The desire to 'become beautiful' is itself a 'process of happiness'" (from the text), offers guidance on beauty and life. (From official HP)