(p. 57, Biteki, May 2011)
I still remember my reaction upon seeing the very first issue of Biteki in 2001. “A magazine just about beauty!” I exclaimed to myself. I became a fan ever since. I have purchased every single issue so far, and I certainly think Biteki is one of the best sources of information on Japanese beauty products (and beauty products in general).
(pp. 58 & 59, Biteki, May 2011)
Over the years, there have been many beautiful covers, which reflect the aesthetics of the magazine and the makeup trends. Below are some of my favorite covers:
– September 2002: Quiet, serene, sophisticated, elegant, and glamorous. This is a great look for fall and winter.
– February 2003: Very clean and unfussy. I like the minimal makeup and the warmth that the face radiates. The hair looks gorgeous and frames the face beautifully.
– March 2003: This is probably my favorite cover so far. I love the soft bouncy wavy hair, the fresh eye makeup, the blusher on top of the cheeks, and the pink lips with a hint of rose. It is such a carefree and happy look.
– June 2003: Most of my favorite covers happen to be from 2003, and all of the four covers so far feature model Maya, who is my favorite cover model for Biteki. The look here manages to be colorful and relatively minimal at the same time. Even with both blue and green on the eyes, the overall look is clean, polished, and far from garish.
– May 2009: Featuring model Yuri, this cover is one of my recent favorites. I like the combination of aqua blue for the eyes and glossy pink for the lips. The look is translucent and vibrant.
What I also like about these makeup looks is that they are reasonably achievable. Biteki generally focuses on trend-sensitive but wearable looks, and I think this, combined with the comprehensive coverage of skincare, is one of the main reasons why Biteki has a very broad appeal.
Among other similar magazines in Japan, Biteki has remained my favorite. The way it has been edited (in terms of the range of subjects and the layout style) has evolved over the years, but it has always been a joy to read.
Happy anniversary, Biteki! I will keep on reading.
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{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I love the covers of Biteki, they’re always so gorgeous! There are still a few I’m trying to get hold of, but they’re impossible to find. I found a few very high quality scans on fashionmodeldirectory.com but I can’t find the rest of what I want.
I like how the look is quite clean and the covers are never too cluttered. Do you know the model Yuri’s last name? She’s one of my favourites, I’d love to see more of her, there’s something so friendly in her expression.
Anyway, I love your blog, been a silent reader for a while now, keep it up :)
Hi Leila,
Thank you very much for being a regular reader of my blog! :)
I don’t know Yuri’s last name, but I will let you know if I come across it! :)
I do like Yuri as a model as well. As you might know, she has done quite a few covers for Biteki. She does have a very friendly and engaging aura, and I think her looks are quite relatable.
Thank you very much for posting your comment! :)