Expressive Chaos
Makeup, throughout generations, has functioned as a powerful storytelling tool and accessory in the realm of fashion. It serves not only to enhance features but as a medium for self-expression, allowing individuals to present a chosen persona and shape their identity.
Maison Margiela Couture Makeup
Today, we use it as a creative outlet to evoke feelings, express gender identity, and in a way, create fantasies. The current shift from the clean girl aesthetic to unique messiness signifies a departure from subtlety to a bold, and extravagant approach. Perhaps we owe this undone maximalist renaissance to the oversaturation of the perfect “that girl” trend and the resurgence of indie sleaze; we are looking for beauty in the mess and chaos. Another important topic to mention is the fatigue of Eurocentric standardized norms of beauty; this shift reflects a desire for heightened expression of individuality, celebrating one's features, culture, and gender identities as they see fit. The goal is to be oneself rather than conforming to what is conventionally attractive. This messier wave in beauty has also drawn inspiration from the Avant-garde. It has become a vessel for pushing boundaries and evoking strong emotions, aligning itself with something broader than trends but seeking deeper connections through art and fashion. Fashion is no stranger to this; many designers from Jean Paul Gaultier to Simone Rocha use it as a way to emphasize their work. Most recently, Galliano with the Margiela Artisanal show and Pat McGrath's artistry have highlighted the synergy between fashion and avant-garde makeup, creating a profound emotional impact on clients and fashion lovers everywhere. Many individuals, myself included, find a creative outlet in interpreting these avant-garde or messy looks in a more subdued manner. This personalized approach demonstrates the versatility of makeup as both an art form and a means of individual expression. With social media such as Pinterest, TikTok, and Instagram, we have endless sources of inspiration to recreate at home, from archive fashion shows to online creators. Some honorable mentions for inspiration are makeup artists Alice Dodds and Terry Barber; as for influencers, Mikai McDermott, Lara Violetta, and Kali Ledger apply this style in a really personal and real way. Throughout history, from ancient Egyptians to Victorian-era styles, gothic influences, and the evolution into full glam, makeup trends have constantly evolved. While the changes may not be as drastic as those seen in the 1920s and 1930s, the current shift signals a notable transformation, marking a dynamic moment in the ever-evolving landscape of makeup and fashion. Today, I believe more and more people are having fun with the freedom of self-expression, utilizing their faces as a canvas.
