Olivier Echaudemaison, who masterminded makeup for some of the most storied French luxury houses, died early Wednesday at age 84.
His death took place in a Paris hospital following an illness.
“Guerlain learns with profound sadness of the passing of Olivier Echaudemaison, an iconic figure in the maison’s contemporary history and a leading personality in the world of beauty and creation,” Guerlain said in a statement. “A great artistic director and a true man of taste, Olivier also left his mark on the maison through his personality, sensitivity and strong relationships he forged over the years with those who worked alongside him and contributed to shaping the maison.”
Josie Natori said she and Echaudemaison became instant friends upon meeting 44 years ago after an introduction made by the-then editor in chief of Town & Country.
“He has been a very meaningful part of my life,” Natori said Wednesday, describing Echaudemaison as “bigger than life. He goes into a room and you know his presence.”
