In the world of fashion and makeup, boundaries are constantly being pushed. The recent showcase at Coperni’s Disneyland Paris extravaganza exemplified this by closing out the city's Fashion Week with a striking palette dominated by pale purples. However, it was the dramatic winged eyeliner and sharply defined brows that transformed the look from something akin to Ariel into an edgy Ursula-inspired aesthetic. Renowned makeup artist McGrath emphasized the transformative power of pastels, noting their ability to remain timeless while feeling fresh through innovative layering techniques.

Unveil Your Edge with Modernized Pastel Palettes

The evolution of pastel hues in contemporary makeup is not just about softening the complexion but infusing it with boldness and character. This trend has transcended runways, making its way into everyday looks as seen on models like Gabbriette and celebrated artists such as FKA twigs.

Reimagining Traditional Tones

In today's makeup landscape, traditional pastel shades are no longer confined to their quaint origins. Artists like Hiromi Ueda have pioneered new ways to incorporate these colors into edgy, modern aesthetics. By focusing on contrasts and unexpected pairings, she advocates for a shift away from overly sweet appearances towards more daring expressions. For instance, pairing a soft lavender eye shadow with a deep plum lip can create a striking juxtaposition that captivates the viewer.Moreover, the use of muted neoprene tones, as seen at Dries Van Noten, adds an industrial twist to otherwise delicate shades. Lucy Bridge's technique of clumping lashes in these subdued hues further enhances the mysterious allure of the look. This approach challenges conventional beauty norms by introducing a stranger, almost otherworldly dimension to the face.

The Art of Contrast

Contrast plays a pivotal role in elevating pastel makeup from ordinary to extraordinary. Ammy Drammeh, contributing her expertise to Chanel Beauty's spring/summer 2025 eyeshadow palette, emphasizes the importance of combining muted neon shades with deeper tones. A pearlescent green eye paired with charcoal accents, as sported by FKA twigs, epitomizes this principle. Such combinations generate visual tension, drawing attention and sparking intrigue.Furthermore, achieving balance within contrasting elements requires precision. Defining features like eyebrows or adding a graphic wing can counteract the sweetness of pastel shades, offering a more robust aesthetic. Alternatively, removing eyebrows altogether creates an avant-garde statement that aligns with the experimental nature of modern makeup trends.

Personalization and Attitude

Ultimately, the success of any makeup trend hinges on personal expression. While guidelines provide a foundation, individuality breathes life into these looks. Encouraging users to experiment with various textures, finishes, and placements empowers them to craft unique styles that resonate with their personalities.For example, Gabbriette's signature cherry blossom cheeks paired with pencil-thin brows and moody charcoal eyeliner demonstrate how small adjustments can significantly alter perceptions. Similarly, FKA twigs' extraterrestrial markings add a futuristic flair to her pearlescent green eyes, showcasing the limitless possibilities within this trend.Incorporating attitude into one's makeup routine involves embracing imperfections and pushing creative limits. Whether through unconventional color choices or exaggerated feature enhancements, each application becomes an opportunity for self-discovery and artistic exploration.