How COVID-19 Influenced Makeup Trends
It is no surprise that the COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way people think about fashion. The mask has become a statement piece, an accessory choice, while stylish hand sanitizer cases dangle from the straps of our Telfar bags. But how has this global health crisis changed the way people think about beauty?
I don’t know about you, but when I make the choice to wear a midi skirt, my legs only get shaved halfway up. Does this same ideology also apply to makeup? Are half faces becoming the new full faces? Makeup looks have been focused on the eyes now more than ever before. Eyeshadow is blown out, colorful, and adventurous. Eyeliner is neon and avant-garde. Donning a cat eye is as standard as brushing one’s teeth. Getting a lash lift or lash extensions looks more and more like a sensible investment everyday. If you aren’t ready to shell out cash for these services, fake lashes are accessible and gaining in popularity in people’s day to day looks. Whether you pick up a dramatic pair, a set of wispies, or go for something a bit more natural, the longer the lash, the better! 2020 was the year of the eye. Going to the grocery store never felt so fabulous. I hear store attendants won’t even let you in to shop unless you have your reusable bags and are wearing a smokey eye.
Other than the holy trinity that is lash, liner, and shadow, concealer remains a staple in everyone’s makeup bags. This bad boy will eliminate any indication that you haven’t gotten a good night’s sleep since the start of the pandemic. Oh, and did you hear? Brows are the new lips! They have their own personalities, they tell a story. They can be feathery, clean cut, bushy, thin, bleached, drawn on; the possibilities are endless! The emphasis placed on the upper portion of the face is great and all, but what about those of us who can’t let go of doing a full face? Powder is the way to go. Powder blush and bronzer won’t smear off onto your mask and stays in place better than cream versions. Lip glosses are a thing of the past and liquid lipsticks are back in the spotlight. Even beauty gurus are sharing tips on how to ensure your makeup stays in place all day underneath a mask. One influencer in particular, Jackie Aina, recently posted a YouTube video on how she keeps a flawless face underneath her PPE. There are endless options out there for us makeup lovers, and though we don’t have much control over what is going on in the world right now, one thing is for sure, we can choose how we express ourselves. We can experiment with colors, styles, and techniques, and the best part is, we can make mistakes and start again, all with a swipe of some cold cream.
