by Napoleon Perdis
Live makeup installations, Greek dancing, and a tank? That’s right! The King of Colour arrived on a military-style tank in a bright blue suit designed by Gypsy Taylor for the launch of his makeup collection in MYER.
Guests enjoyed lunch while five models were transformed into couture makeup looks by the Napoleon Perdis Creative Team.
In the style of a proper emperor, as his name suggests, the official launch of makeup maestro Napoleon Perdis’ collection at Melbourne’s Myer last Tuesday was an epic one, as he entered Bourke Street perched on an ex-military tank.
Joining the King of Colours’ grand entrance to the Myer store, that blocked traffic and saw thousands of shoppers join the spectacle, was former Miss Universe and face of Myer Jennifer Hawkins.
Between a four course meal that included lipstick and eye shadow-like garnish, Napoleon, dressed in a metallic blue leather suit, celebrated the launch of his collection in Myer like a proper Greek son.
To the rhythms of DJ Krazy Kon, Napoleon, his wife Soula-Marie and model Jennifer Hawkins led a Zorba dance around the tables, joined by VIPs and media heavyweights as Greek music filled the retail giant’s Mural Hall in Bourke Street.
Born to Sydney immigrant parents and takeaway food store owners John and Liana Perdis, Napoleon Perdis built his $100 million worth cosmetic empire from scratch.
Today, his cosmetics are sold in 23 countries, in some of the world’s best retailers, including Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman.
In Australia, his brand was available only at David Jones where it was the top selling cosmetics brand. In July, the retailer’s exclusive contract with Napoleon Perdis ended, as the makeup king decided not to renew the agreement. That’s when Myer’s management took over – and with Tuesday’s epic launch of the Perdis collection, the rest is history.
At the launch, Myer CEO Bernie Brooks said $10 million had been allocated to get the Napoleon brand rolling at Myer, and counters are now in 61 Myer stores.
See below for a glimpse into the magnificent event, and be sure to check out our Facebook Album for even more behind the scenes photos.
The grand entrance!
MYER CEO Bernie Brookes, The makeup master, and Jennifer Hawkins.
Makeup as art at the MYER launch.
Not your typical media lunch! Napoleon and Jennifer Hawkins leading a Greek dance.
GREEK WORLD MEDIA 