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Today on IMAGE.ie, TV presenter, columnist, and all-round style expert Darren Kennedy is here to take the editor’s reigns. All day on our website and social media, you can catch Darren giving his perspective on beauty, fashion, lifestyle and more, as he takes on the new role of guest editor.
Broadcaster and entrepreneur Darren Kennedy tells ROSALEEN McMEEL about his beauty hits and misses.
Television presenter, entrepreneur and fashion columnist Darren Kennedy is regarded as one of Ireland and the UK’s most stylish men and top lifestyle influencers. Following years of working with some of the best brands in the business, Kennedy recently launched his own male skincare range.
WHAT’S THE FIRST BEAUTY PRODUCT YOU REMEMBER USING? E45 Cream. I’m not sure it qualifies as a beauty product, but it was a wonder potion in my house and helped all sorts of skin ailments. My dad still swears by it, but he’s now thankfully making space for Kennedy & Co too.
WHO WAS YOUR EARLIEST BEAUTY INFLUENCE? My mam. I used to love lying on my parents’ bed while she was getting ready for a night out. I was fascinated watching her doing her make-up. It felt like watching real-life art.
ANY FAVOURITES THAT HAVE STOOD THE TEST OF TIME? Occasionally, I’ll break out the E45 Skincare Daily Hand Cream [€4.99] on a harsh winter’s day.
BIGGEST BEAUTY FAUX PAS? When I was about seven years old, my best friend and I thought it would be a great idea to paint earrings on our lobes using mam’s nail varnish. Needless to say, it isn’t a look I’d recommend.
WHERE DO YOU STAND ON MEN USING MAKE-UP? Whatever makes you feel good about yourself. There’s no doubt it’s on the rise. South Korean men are currently leading the charge. If you are going to do it, my advice (to men or women) is to make sure to get a few lessons in application first.
WHAT’S YOUR SIGNATURE SCENT? Chanel Bleu. It’s been my go-to since it launched more than a decade ago. I occasionally flirt with Tom Ford – his limited edition Azure Lime, from the private blend collection is another long-time favourite.
YOUR HAIR IS THE ENVY OF MANY – HOW DO YOU MAINTAIN YOUR MANE? Why, thank you! Christian Shannon in Brown Sugar has been tending to my tresses for about ten years now. I schedule trips home from London to get my hair cut. He’s a master at his craft. Maintenance is low key – I wash it every day, blow-dry with my Dyson, and then apply some Kennedy & Co Matte Hair Clay for texture and fluid hold.
FAVOURITE SHOWER PRODUCTS? Molton Brown Black Peppercorn Body Wash and Le Labo Shower Gel [€22].
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BRING OUT YOUR OWN RANGE? Wanting to fulfil my dreams. That sounds cheesy, but it’s true. I’ve always wanted to launch an Irish-made grooming range for men that harnesses the best of Irish, feels luxurious, but is attainable to all. I live by the motto that “life is the occasion” and we should enjoy the things that make us feel good every day, not just on special occasions.
WHAT BEAUTY PRODUCTS WOULD YOU LIKE IN YOUR STOCKING THIS YEAR? I’d actually love some scented candles from By Kilian.
WHAT FIVE PRODUCTS DO YOU ALWAYS TRAVEL WITH? A lip balm; travel size Chanel Bleu Eau de Toilette [€75]; Kennedy & Co Anti-Fatigue Eye Gel and Matte Hair Clay; and a mini tube of Marvis toothpaste.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR BEAUTY PHILOSOPHY? Less is more. It’s meant to make you look and feel good, not be a chore. Life is the occasion – embrace it!
This article originally appeared in the December issue of IMAGE Magazine.
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