In 2023, the realms of fashion and makeup have witnessed a radical transformation, as they veer away from traditional notions of beauty to embrace a more surreal and whimsical aesthetic. This shift, predominantly driven by Gen Z, reflects a growing disillusionment with conventional beauty ideals and a desire for creative self-expression.
The trend, which moves beyond the “clean girl” aesthetic, finds its roots in the desire to break free from the confines of conventional beauty standards. For instance, the ‘feral girl makeup’ look, a sensation on TikTok with over 380 million views, exemplifies this breakaway. It symbolizes a rebellion against the established norms, offering a fresh perspective on beauty.
Makeup artists like Lisa Michalik are at the forefront of this movement, introducing alien-like aesthetics through dental prosthetics and teeth grilles. Her work with Parisian store Snowbunny, which featured models with bejeweled rabbit teeth, underscores this trend’s crossover into the mainstream. Similarly, TikTok makeup artist Kesho Kage champions otherworldly looks, pushing the boundaries of beauty influencing.
This shift towards embracing unconventional beauty is not just about aesthetics; it’s also about inclusivity and representation. Christine Chua of WGSN points out that the future of beauty will likely embrace diverse interpretations, moving away from strictly Eurocentric standards. The emerging “Chameleon” profile, as identified by WGSN, reflects individuals who see their face as a canvas for artistic expression.
The trend extends to fashion, too, with designers like Michaela Stark, known for her body morphing designs, challenging traditional perceptions of the female form. Stark’s collaboration with Victoria’s Secret, which highlighted bellies and flesh, marked a significant departure from the brand’s historical focus on slim, toned bodies.
This movement towards body morphing and the use of prosthetics in makeup reflects a deeper willingness among Gen Z to experiment with their appearance. It blurs the lines between reality and virtual presence, offering a healthier outlet for self-expression. AI filters that lean into fantastical and fictional scenarios further fuel this trend.
Commercial makeup brands have begun to respond to this shift. NYX and Sunset Makeup, for example, have introduced body paints and colored foundations into their permanent collections. Similarly, professional makeup brands like Kryolan are experiencing increased demand for special-effects products.
These developments signal a broader change in societal beauty standards. As unconventional aesthetics gain momentum, they challenge the traditional notion of beauty and open up new possibilities for self-expression and creativity. This evolving landscape not only redefines beauty but also empowers individuals to define it on their terms.
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