Cosmetics and Cappuccino

Mary Kay Cosmetics debuted its new makeup compact to an audience of about 50 journalists with a simple reception and presentation yesterday morning at the Xchange in Chelsea. While most aspects of the event were consistent with a typical product launch (the company’s colors and logo were, not surprisingly, tied into the black-and-pink decor), the event got guests interacting—a feat at 9 a.m.—with customizable charm bracelets and makeup compacts.The female-heavy crowd munched on passed breakfast hors d’oeuvres (think mini potato pancakes) and sipped cappuccinos as they lined up to create the bracelets. Each guest could choose three charms—choices ranged from letters of the alphabet to miniature silver lipsticks—which staffers attached to a silver coiled Links of London chain.

Stephen Webster, the corporate design director of brand vision for Mary Kay, explained that the do-it-yourself theme stemmed from the new product, a compact with a magnetic interior that allows owners to switch makeup palettes in and out whenever they wish.

After the presentation, during which makeup artist Bridgitte Reiss-Andersen demonstrated the brand’s six new color schemes, the editors also had a chance to put together their own makeup compacts, choosing from 28 eye shadows and multiple bronzers, blushes, and lip glosses. Though the compacts weren’t immediately ready for guests to take with them, Mary Kay staffers promised to mail them out in a few weeks.