When it comes to the artistry of makeup, Pat McGrath is one of the first names to come up in a conversation. Her work has graced the runways of fashion titans like Alexander McQueen and John Galliano, and her eponymous beauty line, celebrated for its high-impact pigments and ethereal highlighting balms, commands a staggering value of US$1 billion (about S$1.35 billion) annually.
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Most recently, her spellbinding work at Maison Margiela’s haute couture spring/summer 2024 show had both make-up connoisseurs and dilettantes mesmerised by the models’ flawless, porcelain doll skin.
ELLE Singapore caught up with the beauty maestro to talk about what’s hot this season, tips for long-lasting make-up, and how to unleash your inner beauty maven.
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What are the standout make-up looks this season?
We see contrasting trends that embody both ends of the make-up spectrum. Loewe and The Row
spring/summer 2024 shows were all about radiant skin and subtlety. At Schiaparelli, we created a look that felt bold and unapologetic, pairing a strong eye with a statement lip for a look that was the epitome of glamour. What I love about these two contrasting trends is that they reflect my work ethos, which has always centred around a spectrum of beauty expressions.
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What trend excited you the most?
I think the most exciting trend we are seeing emergeis the hyper-reflective, glass skin that’s inspired by the look we created for the Maison Margiela Artisanal Collection. The exact process and techniques we used probably isn’t very practical for everyday make-up, but you can still achieve a radiant, glassy finish using gorgeous cream highlighters and luminous cream, and gel blushes that deliver a lit-from-within-radiance.
Is skincare an important step for these looks?
Skincare is integral for any make-up look, any time of year. I recommend starting with a hydrating essence. Sun protection is also non-negotiable and should be applied before your foundation to keep your skin protected from damaging ultraviolet rays.
How should one adjust their make-up routine for warmer climates?
Switch to lightweight, long-lasting products such as creams, gels and liquids. I also love using a tinted lip balm or gloss as these textures tend to feel more comfortable and lightweight. If you wear eyeshadow and eyeliner regularly, I recommend prepping your lids with an eyeshadow primer that won’t crease or budge for up to 24 hours. Investing in a good setting powder is also important, as this is another step that locks your make-up in place.
What advice do you have for those looking to experiment with their make-up?
Be fearless. Make-up is an expression of personal style, so have fun! The rule I swear by is that you should feel free to wear what makes you feel the most beautiful. That being said, if you’re new to colour, start slow and remember that it’s about balance: If you’re doing a colourful smoky eye, keep the lips and cheeks more subdued with soft pink and neutral tones. Or, if you prefer bold lipstick, these shades can stand alone with minimal eye make-up—maybe just a stroke of liner and a few coats of dark mascara.
PAT'S RECOMMENDATIONS
Get all of Pat's recommendations at Sephora stores nationwide or on Pat McGrath Labs' website.