New York Fashion Week (NYFW) for Fall 2025 was a dazzling showcase of extravagant and identity-infused beauty looks. From the runway to backstage, makeup artists and hairstylists pushed boundaries, creating striking visuals that celebrated diversity and paid homage to various subcultures. One standout moment came from MAC's global creative director Terry Barber, who described his work at Luar as "everything but the kitchen sink," capturing the essence of an '80s supermodel-meets-Stonewall-drag aesthetic. This season embraced a more-is-more philosophy, with trends ranging from exaggerated blush to avant-garde hairstyles and feathered accessories.

The fall 2025 presentations were marked by an explosion of creativity, especially in makeup. At Luar, Barber collaborated with founder Raul Lopez to craft bold, expressive looks that reflected their shared history within the underground queer scene. The makeup featured vibrant colors and textures, evoking a sense of spontaneity, as if applied hastily yet perfectly placed. This blend of cultures and generations resulted in a unique tribute to their roots, showcasing how beauty can transcend borders and eras.

Beyond Luar, other designers also embraced maximalist approaches. Pat McGrath adorned models with fabric cut-out blush and beauty spots at Marc Jacobs, while Isamaya Ffrench transformed eyes into works of art using feathers at Thom Browne. Joseph DiMaggio created seashell-adorned braids at Tia Adeola, and Dick Page introduced cheetah print makeup at Collina Strada. Each look was a testament to the power of self-expression through cosmetics.

Hair was equally transformative during NYFW. Christian Cowan’s cone-assisted updos drew inspiration from sci-fi aesthetics, while Anna Sui’s pin-up inspired styles brought vintage glamour to life. Rutger’s oceanic creatures-themed hair at Elena Velez added an ethereal touch, blending fantasy with fashion. Meanwhile, Lacy Redway coined the term “trackside twists” for Christian Siriano, creating intricate buns that mirrored automotive designs. James Pecis crafted elaborate bird-inspired headpieces for Thom Browne, merging nature with futuristic elements.

As NYFW concluded, it became clear that this season was about embracing individuality and pushing limits. Makeup and hairstyling served not just as accessories but as statements, reflecting the diverse voices within the fashion community. The week showcased how beauty trends can evolve when they are rooted in personal stories and cultural narratives, ultimately leading to unforgettable moments on the runway.