The Red Queen was founded by Frank Fasolo and Joshua O'Neill who have been partners for three years and have both worked in the fashion industry. But what, exactly, inspired these two young entrepreneurs to start their mineral cosmetic and skincare line?

Frank graduated from the Laboratory Institute of Merchandising in Manhattan where he studied fashion and worked with top public relation firms. From this opportunity, he began to network and was, in turn, able to work on commercials, Fashion Week, and MTV. He continued to perfect his talent as a makeup artist by jumping around the cosmetic world and being trained by the top artists from each line.

Joshua, a graduate from Kings College in Pennsylvania, was a buyer for one of the top luxury retailers in New York with some of his designs featured in shows such as "Will and Grace." Together, with an affinity for fashion and color, the duo knew something big was in store for them. In August, at the Chester location, they opened their first cosmetic boutique.

The name The Red Queen came from a painting of the same title--which they bought from Grace Slick of rock band Jefferson Airplane fame--and the Red Queen philosophy that one must keep running just to stay in place. This theory exemplifies the beauty industry, where cosmetics continue evolving and changing at a rate that is difficult with which to keep pace.

Josh and Frank believe that beauty is unique to all and that makeup should be fun. "Women should not be afraid to try new colors," notes Frank. "A woman looks her best when she feels confident and self-assured. But before she puts on makeup, she has to feel comfortable in her own skin, and, to do that, she needs a skincare program, " he continues.

"Skin comes before fashion, " explains Frank. "We know that if our skin is in bad condition, no matter what our outfit is or how our hair looks, it doesn't matter. Skin is first, and that is the first thing people see." For a woman's skin to be flawless and well-hydrated, Frank points out, it takes work. This is why Frank and Josh collaborated with a team of professionals to manufacture the perfect skincare regimen.

The Red Queen skincare line is formulated with organic compounds and the latest in skincare technology, including ingredients such as lipids, hyaluronic acid, jojoba oils, seaweed extracts, and red tea. The unique formulas and ingredients are what make the products suitable for men and women with any skin type or condition.

In addition to the cosmetics and skincare line, The Red Queen has a bath-and-body collection with seven flavors and some of the most unique jewelry around, including Kevia, Isharya, and Pyrrha, as well as Santi clutches, and silk scarves featured in top fashion publications. "A woman can never have enough makeup, jewelry, or handbags," quips Joshua."All of these things can be found at The Red Queen."

~Print Media News November 2007