chanel ss 2018 makeup | Chanel dresses for spring

Emily Sundberg's piece on *The Cut* from November 13, 2018, and the *Let's Makeup* article from January 16, 2018, both hinted at the magic Chanel was weaving for Spring/Summer 2018. While Sundberg focused on the literary connections and Ferrante-esque depths some found in the collection, and *Let's Makeup* likely delved into the specific product breakdown, the true impact was the holistic vision: the dresses, the fashion, the runway, and the makeup, all intertwined to tell a story of modern femininity with a touch of classic Chanel elegance. This article aims to dissect that vision, exploring the Chanel SS 2018 makeup within the broader context of the collection.

The Chanel SS 2018 Runway: A Study in Water and Light

To truly understand the makeup, one must first immerse themselves in the overall atmosphere of the Chanel SS 2018 show. Karl Lagerfeld, ever the visionary, transformed the Grand Palais into a breathtaking simulated waterfall. Imagine a cascading wall of water, reflecting light and creating an ethereal, almost otherworldly ambiance. This aquatic theme wasn't just a backdrop; it permeated the entire collection, influencing the fabrics, the silhouettes, and, crucially, the makeup.

The Chanel runway dresses for Spring were a study in contrasts. There were the classic tweed suits, reimagined with translucent PVC elements, adding a futuristic, almost protective layer to the traditional fabric. These weren't your grandmother's tweed suits; they were designed for a woman navigating a world of both beauty and potential challenges. Then there were the flowing, iridescent dresses, mimicking the shimmer and movement of water. Silks, chiffons, and organza were used to create a sense of lightness and fluidity, often adorned with delicate embellishments that resembled droplets of water. The color palette was equally evocative, ranging from deep ocean blues and greens to shimmering silvers and pearlescent whites. Touches of coral and bright pink added pops of vibrant energy, reminiscent of the coral reefs hidden beneath the surface of the water.chanel ss 2018 makeup

The Chanel runway fashion, as a whole, spoke of a woman who was both strong and vulnerable, modern and timeless. The PVC elements, initially seen as a futuristic addition, could also be interpreted as a metaphor for protection, shielding the wearer from the elements or the harsh realities of the world. The flowing dresses, on the other hand, celebrated femininity and freedom, allowing the wearer to move with grace and confidence.

The Chanel runway collection wasn't just about clothes; it was about creating a feeling, an atmosphere, a world. It was about capturing the essence of water – its power, its beauty, and its transformative qualities. This feeling, this atmosphere, was then translated into the makeup.

Deconstructing the Chanel SS 2018 Makeup Look

The makeup look for the Chanel SS 2018 show was, at first glance, deceptively simple. It wasn't about bold colors or dramatic contours. Instead, it focused on enhancing the natural beauty of the models, creating a fresh, luminous complexion that reflected the aquatic theme of the collection. The overall impression was one of effortless chic, perfectly in line with the Chanel aesthetic.

However, beneath the surface of this apparent simplicity lay a carefully crafted and meticulously executed look. Here's a breakdown of the key elements:

* The Base: The foundation was key to achieving the desired luminosity. It was likely a light-to-medium coverage foundation, chosen for its ability to even out the skin tone without masking its natural texture. The emphasis was on creating a dewy, hydrated finish. Hydration was paramount, suggesting the use of a moisturizing primer beforehand and perhaps a hydrating setting spray afterwards. This ensured the skin looked healthy and radiant, as if it had just emerged from a refreshing dip in the ocean.

* The Eyes: The eyes were the focal point of the look, but in a subtle and sophisticated way. Instead of heavy eyeshadow or eyeliner, the makeup artists opted for a wash of soft, shimmering color. Often, a single shade of iridescent eyeshadow, in colors like champagne, silver, or light blue, was applied to the eyelids, creating a subtle, ethereal glow. The key was to blend the eyeshadow seamlessly, avoiding any harsh lines or edges. Mascara was applied sparingly, focusing on lengthening and defining the lashes without creating excessive volume. The overall effect was to make the eyes appear brighter and more open, reflecting the light and creating a sense of freshness. The eyebrows were kept natural and well-groomed, further contributing to the overall impression of effortless beauty.

* The Cheeks: The cheeks were given a healthy flush of color with a soft, peachy-pink blush. The blush was applied high on the cheekbones, creating a lifting effect and adding to the overall luminosity of the face. The emphasis was on creating a natural, healthy glow, as if the models had just spent a day in the sun. A touch of highlighter was likely applied to the high points of the face, such as the cheekbones, brow bone, and cupid's bow, to further enhance the luminosity and create a dewy, radiant finish.

* The Lips: The lips were kept simple and understated, allowing the eyes and complexion to take center stage. A nude or slightly tinted lip balm was likely used to hydrate and plump the lips, creating a natural, healthy appearance. In some cases, a sheer, glossy lipstick in a similar shade may have been applied to add a touch of shine. The goal was to enhance the natural color of the lips without adding any heavy or overpowering color.