The Chanel Spring/Summer 2019 Ready-to-Wear collection, presented against a breathtaking backdrop of a reconstructed beach, was more than just a fashion show; it was an immersive experience. Karl Lagerfeld, in one of his final solo collections for the house, transported guests to a sun-drenched paradise, complete with lapping waves, sandy shores, and even a lifeguard on duty. While the Chanel clothing brand showcased its signature tweed jackets, flowing dresses, and effortlessly chic separates, the Chanel SS19 collection makeup played an equally crucial role in completing the vision. It wasn't about dramatic transformations or bold statements; instead, the makeup embraced a natural, sun-kissed aesthetic that echoed the collection's themes of freedom, ease, and the unadulterated joy of summer.
This article delves deep into the beauty looks of the Chanel SS19 runway, dissecting the products used, the techniques employed, and the overall inspiration behind this effortlessly beautiful makeup aesthetic. We'll explore how the makeup complemented the Chanel runway fashion, the key pieces from the Chanel spring summer collection, and how you can recreate this sun-drenched glow at home.
The Setting: A Beachside Dream
Before we dive into the makeup itself, it's crucial to understand the context of the show. The Chanel SS19 collection was a celebration of coastal living. Models strolled barefoot through the "sand," clad in tweed suits with nautical stripes, airy dresses adorned with seashell embellishments, and logo-emblazoned beach accessories. The color palette was a symphony of blues, whites, pinks, and corals, mirroring the hues of the ocean, sky, and blooming flowers. This idyllic scene set the stage for a makeup look that was light, fresh, and utterly believable.
The Makeup Vision: Natural Beauty Enhanced
The Chanel SS19 collection makeup look, masterminded by legendary makeup artist Lucia Pica, Chanel's Global Creative Makeup and Colour Designer, was the epitome of "no-makeup makeup." It wasn't about concealing or masking; it was about enhancing the models' natural features and creating a radiant, healthy glow. The focus was on achieving a sun-kissed complexion, subtly defined eyes, and lips that looked naturally flushed.
Key Elements of the Chanel SS19 Makeup Look:
* Glowing Skin: The foundation of the look was flawless, dewy skin. The goal was to create a complexion that looked hydrated, healthy, and naturally luminous. This was achieved through a combination of skincare and strategically applied makeup.
* Skincare Prep: Proper skincare was paramount. Models likely received a hydrating facial or treatment before makeup application to ensure their skin was plump and receptive to the products.
* Lightweight Foundation: Heavy, matte foundations were avoided. Instead, lightweight formulas like Chanel's Les Beiges Teint Belle Mine Naturelle or similar tinted moisturizers were used to even out skin tone and provide a subtle veil of coverage.
* Strategic Concealing: Concealer was used sparingly to target specific imperfections, such as dark circles or blemishes. The aim was to correct and brighten, not to create a completely flawless mask.
* Highlighter: To enhance the dewy effect, strategically placed highlighter was crucial. A cream or liquid highlighter, applied to the high points of the face – cheekbones, brow bones, bridge of the nose, and cupid's bow – added a touch of radiance without looking overly shimmery. Chanel's Baume Essentiel in Transparent or Sculpting would have been perfect choices.
* Sun-Kissed Cheeks: A flush of color on the cheeks was essential for achieving the sun-kissed effect.
* Cream Blush: Powder blush was largely absent. Cream blushes, like Chanel's Baume Essentiel Blush, were preferred for their natural-looking finish and ability to blend seamlessly into the skin.
* Warm Tones: Peach, coral, and rose shades were used to mimic the natural flush of a day spent in the sun. The color was applied to the apples of the cheeks and blended outwards towards the temples.
* Defined, Yet Natural Eyes: The eyes were subtly defined to enhance their natural shape and brightness without appearing overly made-up.
* Neutral Eyeshadow: Neutral eyeshadow shades, such as taupe, brown, and beige, were used to create subtle definition in the crease of the eye. These shades helped to add dimension without overpowering the look. Chanel's Les Beiges eyeshadow palettes would have been ideal.
* Eyeliner (Optional): Some models wore a very thin line of brown or black eyeliner along the upper lash line to subtly define the eyes. However, the eyeliner was kept minimal and blended for a soft, natural effect.
* Mascara: Mascara was used to lengthen and define the lashes, but it was applied sparingly to avoid a clumpy or overly dramatic look. One or two coats of a volumizing mascara, like Chanel's Le Volume de Chanel, were sufficient.
* Well-Groomed Brows: The eyebrows were kept natural and well-groomed. Brow gel was used to tame any stray hairs and hold them in place.
chanel ss19 collection makeup