Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim isn't just about hot bodies in teeny tiny swimwear. Okay, maybe it is. But these models have faces, people! And if you look up long enough, what you see may surprise you.
Caking on the makeup probably isn't the most realistic plan when trolling on South Beach's sand. But neither is wearing stilettos with bikinis, and we'll see plenty of that over the next four days.
MBFWS sponsor Make Up For Ever, spotted on beach-bound beauties like Jennifer Lopez, Rihanna, and the Kardashians, designed the makeup looks for six runway collections this year. We've featured four of the looks below. Make Up For Ever Alliance's James Vincent, who's the lead makeup artist for MBFWS, spoke to the New Times about painting models' faces and how to look runway ready when hitting the beach.
New Times: Where did you get your inspiration for the looks for this year's MBFWS?
James Vincent: The looks are diverse in their origins with
references to classic film and fashion as well as what's happening
right now on the runways, red carpet, and the street. What ties all of
the looks together is that they are about strong women, beautiful skin,
and wearable color the lasts in all weather.
How did you decide which shows got neutral vs. dramatic looks?
I take a lot of my lead from the designer, but also from the real women
who are wearing these swimsuits. Some make up looks are more edgy, and
some are more fashion forward, while other are about more wearable
beauty. During fashion week, the make up has to come across as having
qualities that are both aspirational and attainable. Overall, the look
has to express the energy of the designer and the collection and work
to compliment that, but it also has to be representative of the women
who will be wearing the designs.
Any tips for Miamians that want to glam on the beach?
The trick is to work with products that are made for all skin types and all weather. When it comes to the beach, great skincare is an important first step. You need SPF of course, but hydration is also key. Beach makeup can really just be a touch of waterproof mascara with some gloss to keep you looking like the best version of your natural self. But if you want to add some color, choose products that give you shine, shape, and definition that you don't have to worry about smudging in the heat. I really love Make Up For Ever's Aqua Cream, because the shade range is gorgeous, and the cream formula is completely waterproof and sweat-proof so the color really lasts even in extreme conditions.
