François Nars, the visionary behind the colour cosmetics brand Nars, has been awarded the National Order of the Legion of Honour – France's highest honorary distinction.
Nars received the prestigious honour at a ceremony held on 9 November at the Payne Whitney Mansion in New York, hosted by Bénédicte de Montlaur, Cultural Counselor of the French Embassy.
Recognised for being a creative visionary in brand creation and direction, art and photography, Nars' achievements to date were described as having left "an indelible mark on the fashion and beauty industries worldwide".
Nars said: “I am incredibly humbled and proud to receive this prestigious award – it is one of the greatest moments of my career. France is my homeland and will always have a special place in my heart. I am truly honoured.”
Nars started selling his first cosmetics in November 1994, with a range of 12 lipsticks in Barneys New York.
Today Nars the brand is owned by Shiseido and sells an ever-growing collection of cosmetics for eyes, lips, face, nails and more.
