I think most beauty enthusiasts can remember the catastrophe that was 2016 makeup. I know I certainly can. High amounts of pigmentation, elaborate technique and household items for application were critical features in the era. This Maximalist makeup played a significant role in the history of beauty. Today, the complete opposite aesthetic has taken hold of the beauty community—Minimalist chic. A simple colored liner or pop mascara has proven the perfect accent technique for a cosmetic look. With the gift of hindsight on our minds, are we team Maximalist or Minimalist?
The peak Maximalist era took hold of every beauty enthusiast in 2016. One specific example features pre-canceled artist and ‘Cover Boy’ James Charles. His looks consisting of harsh contour, a bold wing, and a thick foundation inspired many to follow in his footsteps. His work, such as the “Unleash Your Inner Artist” trend, pushed the boundaries of ‘what is considered too much?’ The rainbow-style eyeshadow with dripping white paint had the entire beauty community in a chokehold. Not only did other artists attempt to recreate the look, but bigger and better looks following the same guidelines became viral. Block brows and splotchy cut creases were my specialty. As much as I look back on my past work cringing, I have to remind myself that this (extremely tacky) Maximalist style brought together artists across the globe. It highlighted makeup as an art rather than a hobby.
Today the new look of Minimalist chic is opening doors that were previously closed in the beauty community. Initially started by 1960s supermodel Twiggy, this style features a dewy smooth foundation and an abstract approach to eye makeup. One recent example would be the HBO show Euphoria. Rhinestones, colored mascara, and graphic eyeshadow put makeup in a new light. Makeup artists across the globe took this abstract technique and applied their own Minimalist approach. Today colored mascara or cosmetic line art is featured in street looks, setting the standards for the future of makeup artists, including me.
The Maximalist and Minimalist decorative styles are critical eras in beauty history. With the help of looks such as the “Unleash Your Inner Artist” and Euphoria, regular makeup wearers can have artistic freedom in their style. Although looking back on our past work can remind us of our mistakes, these mistakes are imperative to improve our cosmetic art. With the help of the Minimalist trend, artistic makeup will be a style necessity and potentially influence people to embrace their inner artists.
Words by Laura Perry.
Graphic by Aarushi Menon.