This winter, crimson red makeup is in the spotlight. Doja Cat, Kylie Jenner, Dua Lipa: all have embraced this new trend. But contrary to popular belief, this fad is far from new.
Red isn’t just on the lips and Asian women have long understood that. This color has been associated with oriental beauty culture for several millennia. “In China during the Tang Dynasty, blush was applied to the cheeks and eyes, creating a rosy-toned eyeshadow. So this shade continued to be used in the country’s cosmetics for centuries. And even today, this color is favored by Chinese opera.says Erin Parsons, makeup artist interviewed by the New York Times.
The same goes for Japan, which saw the birth of this trend several decades ago. At the time, blush around the eyes was especially popular in neighborhoods like Harajuku, Tokyo’s temple of youthful fashion. Peter Philips, creative and image director for Dior products, attributes the rise of crimson makeup to a part of manga culture, combined with television series. “Girls are inspired by their favorite characters. There’s always one with red eyeshadow. So what happens in the Asian scene usually spills over into Western culture.”He explains.
Dior has also recently released entire palettes and a mascara dedicated to the shade, a testament to the current success of this color. Also, Peter Philips admits that he was inspired by the growing demand for red eyeshadows in Asia.
Success in the West
For Erin Parsons and Charlotte Tilbury, also a make-up artist, the 60s and 70s marked a real turning point for Western cosmetics. It was only at this time that crimson and cherry colors were truly democratized in beauty products. “The launch of Barbara Hulanicki’s legendary London brand Biba helped bring these nuances to the fore. She had one of the original Biba palettes, which featured reds, teals, and gold undertones.”says Erin Parsons.
The great success achieved by this color is no small thing. Red around the eyes, often seen as a bold choice, is actually a safe bet. Makeup artists claim that this tone is very flattering, regardless of the shade of your eyes. “It brings out the white of the eye, which brings out the color of your iris”expose Charlotte Tilbury.
In addition, the pink and reddish makeup around the eyes, nose and lips gives the impression of having spent long minutes in the cold, without stepping outside. So, to look good while avoiding strong winds, watery eyes, and a runny nose, you know what you need to do.
