Beauty Through a Humanistic Lens

RIE OMOTO（オオモト リエ） is a New York–based makeup artist and creative visionary known for her deconstructionist approach to beauty. Her philosophy goes beyond aesthetics—she seeks to unveil individuality and soul in an industry often dominated by the surface. After working in Paris, Rie moved to New York in 1999 to challenge herself, refine her craft, and explore the harmony between fashion and nature. From being named one of the top makeup artists in the world by WWD in 2005 to launching the innovative brand THREE in 2009, Rie’s journey has been marked by bold creativity, integrity, and purpose.


1.

 

IROHA: What projects are you currently working on? What have you most recently completed or do you plan to do in the near future?

RIE: I recently stepped down as the Global Creative Director of THREE, a makeup and skincare brand I founded in 2009. At the time, the concept of merging organic ingredients with advanced technology was nearly unheard of, and I was passionate about reshaping people’s perceptions of what “organic” could look and feel like. Over the 15 years I spent there, I was involved in every aspect—brand philosophy, product development, design, and creative direction. It was incredibly demanding but also deeply fulfilling.

 

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Right now, I’m working on a shoot featuring Leila George for M_Mileno Magazine, and I just completed the THREE Holiday Collection, which I had a hand in conceptualizing before transitioning out of the brand. As I move forward, I’m focused on creating a new generation of products that reflect my passion for healing and transformation—developing formulas that are clean, trustworthy, and emotionally resonant. My goal is to help people feel beautiful in a way that’s deeply personal and authentic.

3.

 

IROHA: What are your thoughts regarding Asian glass ceiling issues? 

RIE: Breaking the “Asian glass ceiling” requires courage, resilience, and community. Barriers absolutely exist, but they don’t define our potential. I encourage younger generations to embrace their heritage, because our differences are powerful. Your unique perspective can challenge norms and elevate industries. It’s important to speak up and support one another—change happens when we show up for each other and for ourselves. Each step forward makes space for others to follow.

4.

 

IROHA: Based on your background, do you have any advice or a message for young people who want to follow in your footsteps?

RIE: Don’t be afraid to make “mistakes.” I put that in quotes because I think we need to reframe what a mistake really is. Life is filled with pain, uncertainty, and growth—none of it is avoidable, and all of it can be meaningful. Trust yourself and take steps, even if they feel imperfect or uncertain. The journey is the destination. Your path will shape you, and the wisdom you gather along the way is what truly matters. Stay curious. Show up. And know that you don’t have to have it all figured out—none of us do.

IROHA: Outside of work, what are you most interested in right now?

RIE: I’m currently obsessed with plants and dogs! Both bring a sense of groundedness and joy to my life. When I’m not working, I love nurturing my plants or spending time with animals. It’s a reminder of the simplicity and beauty that exists all around us—something I try to bring into my creative work as well.

written by Jessica Woolsey / photography: Hiro Kimura(portrait), Yuta Takahashi(1.), Sofia & Mauro(2.), Coliena Rentmeester(3.), Ben Hasset(4.) 

 

RIE OMOTO(オオモト リエ)'s Website | Instagram