6 makeup trends Pakistani girlies should try to heat up the summer

Sizzle all season long with blurry lips and smouldering blue smoky eye

KARACHI:

A lazy glance across your social media feed or a chance stumble with a fashion mag must have clued you in: thick black eyeliner on the upper lash line going all the way along the waterline is back in vogue. From Hussain Rehar to Zara Shahjahan, models are pairing up this dramatic eye look with the pinkiest of blushes in their arsenal and an even pinkier lipstick.

But the spring’s floral blush-infused is no match for the thick humidity and clingy heat lying in wait. Summer is almost here, and it's time to refresh your makeup game! Rising up to the occasion, we've rounded up the hottest trends that Pakistani girlies need to try this season. From blurry lips to bold blue eyeshadow, these looks will keep you looking fresh and fabulous all summer long.

1. Blurry lips

Blurry lips are set to be a major trend this year, according to Chanel makeup artist Marco Antonio. This technique creates a soft, gradient effect on the lips, with colour fading from darker in the centre to more diffused edges. To achieve the look, apply lipstick to the center of your lips, avoiding the outer edges. Use your fingers or a soft brush to diffuse the color, then soften the edges with a cotton bud or clean brush for a flawless transition.

2. '90s ombré

The '90s are back and ombré lips are here to stay. This look helps define and emphasise the natural shape of your lips, making them appear fuller and well-defined. Start by moisturising your lips, then use a freshly sharpened lip pencil to carefully outline your natural lip line. Begin at the cupid's bow and work your way to the corners of the mouth using short, precise strokes. If you frequently change your lipstick shades, opt for a clear or neutral lip liner.

3. Neutral tones

Our love for '90s minimalism extends to our makeup bags, with neutral tones taking centre stage. Think matte taupe and earthy hues on the eyes, paired with creamy brown and reddish-ochre lips. This look is perfect for everyday wear and can be easily elevated with deeper tones like Bordeaux for the evening.

4. Viral Glass Skin

Pat McGrath's otherworldly glassy skin look at the Maison Margiela show during Paris Haute Couture Week has spawned its own fanbase. Expect to see wearable versions of this trend throughout the summer, with shiny-finish skin and light, faded-looking hues on the eyes. To achieve a dewy finish, try a brightening moisturiser/primer under your makeup, mixed into foundation, or tapped onto skin. On the eyes, cool-toned washes of color like blue, taupe, green, and pink are key.

5. Laminated Brows

Full, fluffy brows are in this season. To get the laminated look, start by brushing your brows upwards. Once they're shaped to your liking, try a 2-in-1 product to fill them in and achieve a lifted finish. Go for a pencil with a sharp, precise cut that allows you to mimic brow hairs, paired with a brow gel that sets everything in place, giving a natural feathered look.

6. Blue eyeshadow

Be it the icy blue of 90s heralded by Paris Hilton or Dua Lipa’s modern blue smoky eye, cobalt, azure and lapis are your new blacks this season. One of the most popular ways to wear blue eyeshadow is in a bold halo effect. Celebrity makeup artist Gilbert Soliz recommends blending the shadow from the lash line up towards the eyebrow to open up the eye and give a fresh take on a smoky eye. Use a flat brush to pat and blend the blue eyeshadow onto your lids, then use a softer fluffy brush to diffuse the color up and out. Complete the halo effect by applying the pigment to your lower lash line with a dense, short-bristled brush.

Bonus trend: A little over the top

Think of it as funky while staying in your comfort zone. Customise your makeup look by playing around with colours and treating your face like a canvas. Think pops of colour in the inner corner, floating creases and sparkly highlights. Swap out your black and brown liner for springy shades of blue or lavender to brighten up a monochromatic face. Try creating a floating line in the crease with a colourful liquid liner – this works great for all eye shapes, particularly hooded eyes.

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