(Published in the Cayman Compass Weekender supplement, Friday, Nov. 13, 2015)
Twice a year, global cosmetic giant MAC transforms the latest runway trends into wearable makeup looks, breathing new life into women’s cosmetics bags the world over.
As with each season, MAC identifies four key trends that will dictate what fashionistas will be coveting over the upcoming months, whether it’s vampy colored lips or bold kohl-lined eyes.
This season, the trends are about celebrating the diversity of beauty, offering makeup artists greater freedom to experiment with a wider set of looks to suit all.
“It’s a radical season, very dark and light,” said Terry Barber, MAC makeup artist. Indeed, this season sees a dramatic shift from the natural-based looks of past trends as AW2015 showcases a much bolder look, offering women the chance to explore and experiment a bit more, while letting their personal style shine through.
This season’s trends are “Beautiful and Damned,” “Strength of Beauty,” “Love Worn,” and “Red 70s.” Sound intriguing? Then read on.
Beautiful and Damned
Black always makes a stylish statement, and it is this season’s go-to color. From ebonized lips to punk-edged eyes, makeup artists are finding refinement in a color that traditionally signifies rebellion.
“There is a rebellion this season that makes makeup feel really alive,” said Alex Box, MAC makeup artist. Key to this trend is a lightness of touch alongside a bold statement for a balanced look. Think gorgeous luminescent skin paired with a dramatic black-lined eye or bold black lips, if you dare!
The essentials
(All products by MAC)
Feline Kohl Power Eye Pencil – kohl eyeliner
Black Chromaline – pigmented and long-wear gel liner
Beg For It Into The Well Eye Shadow – wet/dry carbon black shadow liner
Extreme Dimension 3D Black Lash – carbon black mascara
Media Lipstick – chic blackened red
Spiked Eye Brows – universal charcoal brown eyebrow pencil
White Face and Body Foundation – porcelain luminescence
Strength of Beauty
Think gorgeous, fresh-looking skin, played up with nuanced shades and subtle textures in a sparing way; a strong, bushier brow to anchor the face, razor-sharp contoured cheeks, or blusher applied to the apples of the cheek for a wash of color. This trend is as natural as this season gets.
“Nothing should look like obvious color or evident texture,” Val Garland, MAC makeup artist, explained. “Ultimately, the first impression should be of fresh skin.”
Barber added: “It’s about the tweaks that bring a sharpness to the features, like a beautifully well-cut garment, makeup should be tailored to a perfect fit.”
The essentials
(All products by MAC)
Dark Golden Mineralize Skin Finish Natural – honey-toned bronzer
Vintage Selection Pro Longwear Paint Pot – dewy, tea-stained cream shadow
Studio Sculpt Defining Powder – soft focus, ultra lightweight gel-powder
Sweet Persuasion Huggable Glass – light pink lip-plumping shine
Studio Waterweight SPF 30/PA+++ With Foundation – natural luminous matte coverage
Clear Brow Set – instant brow grooming tool
Just a Wisp Mineralize Blush – for a fresh feminine flush
Love Worn
A contemporary take on a traditional smoky eye. Think makeup that looks lived-in and worn-in; creased kohls, blended eyeshadows and gently rubbed-off liners in soft gritty colors such as sultry greys and browns against a backdrop of fresh, perfectly prepped skin.
The essentials
(All products by MAC)
Ebony Eye Pencil – blendable soft-slate brown
Tailor Grey Pro Longwear Paint Pot – creates a natural, mink-gray smokiness
Studio Conceal and Correct Palette – for subtle correction
Prep + Prime Lip – matte lip perfector
Mineralize Timecheck Lotion – for smooth skin
Groundwork Pro Longwear Paint Pot – An invisible, eye-brightening cream
Red 70s
Universally flattering 70s’ inspired retro reds and russet tones take over from classic hues on the lips in a wide range of finishes and textures – from velvet to vinyl. Combine with paired-back skin for a modern look that screams retro chic!
The essentials
(All products by MAC)
Caramel and Terracotta Prep + Prime CC Color Correcting SPF 30/PA +++ – correctors used as shadows for rich 70s suede tones
Chili Lipstick – sophisticated, timeless terracotta
High Drama Retro Matte Liquid – a rich oxblood hue
Clear Lipglass – a high vinyl finish
Dance With Me Retro Matte Liquid – classic cherry red
Uninterrupted Pro Longwear Eye Shadow – bohemian mustard brown
Mahogany and Auburn Lip Pencils – for a precise sculpted lip in classic russet tones.
Joanna Lewis 