How to be bold with colour
It’s no secret that I’m a tonal, bronze makeup kinda girl but after I tuned into this weeks MYKITCO MONDAY I was inspired to push the boundaries and take a look into the world of colour…
Makeup is a tool to help to make ourselves look pretty, of course, but makeup is also an art form. It’s a way to express your individuality, creativity, and mood. While neutral tones and classic looks are timeless, there’s a whole spectrum of colours waiting to be explored! Vibrant makeup, like anything else, is part of the trend cycle. When I think about colourful makeup, the 80s spring to mind instantly, especially Grace Jones. She created some of the most notable makeup looks, with dramatic geometric shapes and bold colours. Grace Jones’ experimental approach is the perfect example of expressing yourself through makeup and not being confined to the restraints of traditional, ‘beautiful’ makeup.
80s makeup really pushed the boundaries from what had come before, with the likes of David Bowie and Boy George using makeup to transform their identity.
I find vibrant makeup and gender nonconformity go hand in hand as makeup further enhances the creativity in self expression. A lot of my favourite references are from the new romantic era as it combines elegance, drama, and a touch of fantasy! The expressive style of makeup focuses on individuality which, for me, is central to pulling off a bold colour look.
I find that 80s makeup paved the way for modern, bold looks. Whilst the ultra-powdered porcelain skin may be a trend of the past, the bold brow and blush are definitely the hottest trends of the season. Even looking at today's iconic makeup looks you can see the influence of the 80s.
Pat McGraths avant garde incorporate those bold, clashing colours but with a contemporary feel. So how do we make colour makeup modern?
- Know Your Undertones: Understanding whether your skin has warm, cool, or neutral undertones can help you select colours that flatter your complexion. Warm undertones pair well with golds, oranges, and reds, while cool undertones look great with blues, purples, and pinks. Neutral undertones can wear a broad spectrum of colours.
- Experiment and Play: Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try new colours. Makeup is about self-expression, so experiment with different shades and techniques to discover what makes you feel like YOU!
- Balance is Key: When using bold colours, balance is essential. If you opt for a strong lip colour, consider keeping the eye makeup more neutral, and vice versa. This creates harmony in the look and prevents the colours from overwhelming each other.
Makeup is more than just a cosmetic tool, it’s a form of art and self-expression. It allows us to explore different parts of our identity, convey emotions, and enhance our natural beauty. By understanding the power of colour and how to use it effectively, anyone can create stunning looks that reflect their personal style and mood. Whether you’re a makeup artist or just love makeup, the world of colour makeup offers endless possibilities for creativity and transformation!
