For many of us, a fascination with glitter (or any shiny, pearlescent, metallic texture, for that matter) began in kindergarten craft classes and has continued well into adulthood, albeit more subdued. So, you can imagine how pleasantly surprised we were when holographic makeup looks started popping up everywhere— from red carpets to our favourite shows and Instagram feeds.
What is holographic makeup? Holographic pigments have a high-shine finish, reflecting shimmering colours when exposed to light. The brightness of the light, or even the angle at which it falls, can alter the shades visible in a holographic pigment. Think unicorn glitters from childhood, now reinvented as an iridescent, shade-shifting eyeshadow, highlighter, or even a gloss.
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Call it a comeback of holographic makeup
It isn’t the first time holographic makeup has become all the rage. High-shine, metallic finishes became extremely popular in the ‘70s disco era (who can forget Grace Jones’ iconic metallic lips and lids?), popping up everywhere from clothes to makeup to even furnishing. Back in the ’70s, these chrome finishes were mainly limited to a single colour, largely golds and silvers. In the ’00s, these evolved into duo-chrome colours and multi-chromatic pigments that would shift from lilac to pink to purple as the light moved over them. Once a mainstay of Y2K makeup, holographic pigments are everywhere today, shining in all their part-futuristic, part-nostalgic glory.
Why we’re loving it
It’s no surprise to see holographic makeup become so popular today. It is a refreshing break from the minimal, no-makeup makeup looks that have become ubiquitous in recent years. These highly reflective, multi-coloured pigments serve as a refreshing respite from the pandemic-induced restraint on makeup. It also fits perfectly with the Y2K resurgence.
The real reason why this trend wins is its unfailing ability to make you feel like a main character while wearing it (hello, Euphoria fans). Demure, fierce or ethereal— you can mould these prismatic hues to fit whoever you feel like being that day. Their sheer, colour-shifting nature makes them look flattering on all skin tones.
Below, we show you ways to incorporate holographic pigments into your everyday looks for that extra, otherworldly oomph.
Start with the basics
The simplest way to try an iridescent makeup look is to wear it on your lids— pick a holographic eyeshadow or swipe on a sheer holographic pigment over a matte one. If you’re not ready to dive deep into the trend just yet, remember that holographic eye makeup can also be subtle and minimal. For a more subdued take on this trend, wear holographic eyeliner, or highlight just your inner eye corners with an iridescent eyeshadow. This will instantly brighten your face and make your eyes look fresh and more awake.
The safest shades for a beginner are families of pinks and lilacs. If you’re going for an edgier look, vivid multi-chrome finishes over dark bases can also create quite an effect.
The same principle applies to lips— pick a sheer, holographic gloss to achieve a fairy-esque, soft look, or try a dark metallic red for a femme fatale moment.
Hey glow getter
The most wearable way to wear holographic face makeup is with a highlighter. If you pick just one holographic product to add to your makeup kit, choose a sheer, finely milled pigment. Dust it across your cheekbones and the bridge of your nose to create a multidimensional glow. You can even use some across your shoulders and décolletage as body shimmer. Start with a little and build up to your desired level of luminescence. Remember to pick shades that complement and enhance your natural undertones. For instance, a peachy shimmer can warm up a pale complexion, whereas a purple-hued highlighter can instantly brighten up brown skin tones.
Nailed it!
If wearing holographic shades on your face or body is still too maximalist for your taste, a subtle yet pretty way to wear it is on your nails. The perfect example is the glazed donut nail trend popularised by Hailey Bieber. This manicure features a layer of sheer, holographic chrome that goes over a nude or white base to elevate it— understated yet elegant. Again, if you want a subtler manicure, your best bet is to pick vivid multi-chromes and apply them over a darker base, like a brown or a black.
Eyes, lips, or nails—holographic makeup is worthy of your time in 2023!
Cover Image : Instagram/@kelseyh.beautyblogger
