In the heart of New York, fashion month has unfolded with a striking contrast in beauty trends. While some designers embrace minimalistic elegance, others opt for bold, extravagant statements. This season's runway showcases a spectrum of styles that reflect both societal exhaustion and a desire for self-expression. The juxtaposition between understated simplicity and over-the-top glamour highlights the current state of the fashion world and its relationship with broader cultural shifts.

Exploring the Runway Contrasts

In the vibrant autumn season, New York Fashion Week presented an intriguing dichotomy. On one hand, there were designers like Raul Lopez of Luar, who pushed boundaries with maximalist makeup featuring feathers and dramatic cut-creases. Conversely, brands such as Coach under Stewart Vevers kept it simple yet edgy, opting for natural textures and minimalist makeup. Meanwhile, Thom Browne leaned into gilded lashes and brightly colored nails, while Romeo Hunte favored blushed cheeks and textured hairstyles. These contrasting approaches underscore the ongoing debate within the beauty industry about where aesthetics are heading.

The tension between these extremes mirrors broader societal tensions. Makeup artist Terry Barber highlighted this duality at the Luar show, noting that the brand’s bold looks pay homage to movements like the Stonewall Riots and drag culture. At Coach, Dame Pat McGrath translated designer Vever’s vision for a collection rooted in American classics, emphasizing natural freshness. The constant push and pull between minimalism and maximalism reflects a world entrenched in black-and-white guidelines, from political extremes to socioeconomic boundaries. Yet, beauty remains democratic, accessible to everyone regardless of budget or skin color.

A Journalist's Reflection on the Season

As a journalist covering this season, I find myself inspired by the diversity of beauty expressions. Rather than adhering strictly to runway trends, I encourage individuals to take what resonates with them and personalize it. Whether you want to pair a power brow with blushed cheeks or embrace your inner exhaustion with a no-makeup day, the key is to enjoy the artistry of hair, makeup, and nails as forms of self-expression. Beauty should be fun and personal, allowing each individual to showcase their unique style. In a world often divided by extremes, beauty offers a space where creativity and individuality can thrive.