As a makeup artist my brushes are my biggest asset. I am always looking for new companies to find that holy grail brush. My brush collection has everything from mass produced ones that very within budget to hand crafted artisan brushes from all corners of the globe. I have a great knowledge of brushes and have cultivated a collection that is quite enviable. I have given advice to many of my clients, coworkers and friends on which brushes should be added to their collection and which ones to pass. After all it's not just the price of the brush but the quality and use.
Over that last couple of years I have become more and more drawn to Japanese brushes. The craftsmanship is just stunning and you are absolutely getting your monies worth. However the price point on most of the brands are just way out of budget. So pricey in fact that most non-professionals end up saving the brush for "special" occasions as the brush was just too expensive to use.
May I introduce you to Rephr. rephr [re-fer] is derived from the word reference. I learned about this brand from pro artist Melissa Street (aka EpicMakeup) the IG live segment she posted on the 07 brush from this collection convinced me that I needed to try out this brand for myself. She spoke so highly of the quality and price point.
According to the website about 12 months ago the company sat down with hundreds of artists, pros and beauty enthusiasts to understand what makes the perfect makeup brush. Each brushes is designed in reference to the input received from the beauty community. With each prototype going through a series of blind testings, improvements and multiple versions. Until they ended up with a core set of brushes that are super luxurious, soft with a pro-level performance that are durable and extremely affordable.
Each brush is handcrafted in Kumano, Japan by master artisans who use natural goat hair, brass ferrules and hornbeam wood handles. Each brush is beautiful white hair drenched in black on black. They are just gorgeous to look at, and a dream to use.
Needless to say I placed my first order, since Rephr was looking for product testers I was able to snag the 07 brush for free but I wanted to try a few others so I ordered S01, 02, 03, and the 04. The total for my order was just $102 with free shipping.
S01 $24 USD: Described as a multi-tasker capable of putting down color, precision blending and crease work. Can worth with both powders and cream products such as concealers.
I ordered only one of these brushes and I should have gotten at least two. The versatility of the brush has me reaching for it time and time again. From packing on color on the eyelid to applying and blending concealer under the eye. The shape and size are just so versatile for so many uses. Online the brush 01 is slightly different from the S01 I received, for example my brush has a very nice glazed black handle with a silver ferrule. I do love the glossy black on this brush and wouldn't mind a full set with this handle.
02 $24 US: Described as a firm yest silky smooth shader. It's soft tapered and ideal for blending the lower lash line.
This brush has also become a favorite very quickly, the firmness of the goat hair is perfect for really packing in that color, but the soft edges are fabulous for diffusing precision. I have been using the brush to get high concentrations of product for that beautiful punch of color that is just so beautiful right now. Works extremely well with cream colors as well, so you can soften and smudge to your hearts desire.
03 $24 USD: Described as a small pencil brush that perfect for detail work.
Another brush I wish I had more of, if 217 is your favorite detail brush then you will love 03. The bristles are extremely soft but dense. It's a pencil brush that allows for precise application and a blended finish. I have become obsessed with using this brush to give me a super defined crease and soften liner. The detail work you can accomplish with this brush is just stellar.
04 $39 USD: Described as an angled cheek brush ideal for contouring.
I'll just repeat that I should have gotten two, this is the perfect brush for contouring. It deposits a beautiful amount of color and then blends it to perfection. It gave both myself and my clients beautifully chiseled cheekbones. Works just as amazing for applying highlight. I know of other artist who swear on the brush for foundation as well and I definitely will trying that as well.
07 $24 USD (upon launch): Described as a versatile brush that is capable of precise contouring and highlighting.
I really like this brush, it's soft and fluffy and perfect for blending shadows. I also used this brush to apply highlight, it picks up a good amount of product and allows you to deposit and blend flawlessly. I need more of this brush. Definitely another brush that I reach for again and again.
as you can see the prices for these brushes are well within anyones budget and worth every penny. I have to add the 05 ($56) powder brush and the 06 (part of a set $130) to my collection soon as I can. I am so thankful to have been introduced to this brand and have them a part of my collection. I know they will be my favorites for years to come.