Taylor Swift is a pop icon known for her catchy songs and signature red lipstick. However, her recent album releases have showcased a different side of her, one that is more alternative and edgier. This shift in her music has also been reflected in her fashion and beauty choices, including her makeup.
Fans of Taylor Swift have taken notice of her alternative makeup looks, which often feature bold and dark colors, graphic eyeliner, and unconventional lip shades. These looks have inspired many to experiment with their own makeup, and have even sparked a new trend in the beauty industry.
In this article, we will delve into Taylor Swift’s alternative makeup looks, exploring the products and techniques she uses to achieve them. Whether you’re a die-hard Swiftie or simply looking for some new makeup inspiration, this article will provide you with all the information you need to recreate her signature looks.
Understanding Taylor Swift’s Signature Style
Defining the Pop Icon’s Look
Taylor Swift’s signature style is a mix of classic and modern elements. Her makeup looks often feature bold lips, defined brows, and winged eyeliner. She is known for her flawless skin, which she achieves through a combination of skincare and makeup techniques.
Swift’s makeup looks are versatile and can range from natural to dramatic. She often experiments with different colors and textures, but always maintains a cohesive and polished look. Her makeup is designed to enhance her natural features and highlight her unique beauty.
Influence on Makeup Trends
Taylor Swift’s makeup looks have had a significant impact on the beauty industry. Her bold lip colors, winged eyeliner, and defined brows have become popular trends among makeup enthusiasts. Many beauty brands have even created products inspired by Swift’s signature style.
Swift’s influence extends beyond just makeup trends. She is known for her impeccable fashion sense and has become a style icon in her own right. Her ability to seamlessly blend classic and modern elements has made her a trendsetter and an inspiration to many.
Overall, Taylor Swift’s signature style is a testament to her creativity and individuality. She has created a look that is both timeless and modern, and has inspired countless others to embrace their own unique beauty.
Alternative Makeup Basics
When it comes to Taylor Swift’s alternative makeup look, there are a few essential tools and products that you need to have in your makeup kit. These include:
- Primer: A good primer is essential for creating a smooth base for your makeup and ensuring that it stays in place all day. Look for a primer that is lightweight, non-greasy, and suitable for your skin type.
- Foundation: Taylor Swift’s alternative makeup look is all about a flawless, natural-looking complexion. Choose a foundation that matches your skin tone and provides medium to full coverage.
- Concealer: To hide any blemishes or dark circles, you’ll need a good concealer. Look for a formula that is creamy, blendable, and provides long-lasting coverage.
- Eyeliner: A bold eyeliner is a must for Taylor Swift’s alternative makeup look. Choose a black or dark brown liner and apply it along your upper lash line for a dramatic effect.
- Mascara: To complete the look, you’ll need a volumizing mascara that adds length and definition to your lashes.
Color Theory and Selection
When it comes to Taylor Swift’s alternative makeup look, color selection is key. The look is all about bold, dark colors that create a dramatic effect. Some key colors to consider include:
- Black: Black eyeliner and mascara are essential for creating a bold, dramatic look. You can also use black eyeshadow to create a smoky eye effect.
- Burgundy: Burgundy is a great alternative to black and adds a touch of color to your look. Try a burgundy lipstick or eyeshadow to create a bold statement.
- Dark Brown: Dark brown is a great alternative to black eyeliner and mascara and creates a softer, more natural look. It’s also a great color for filling in your eyebrows.
When selecting colors for your alternative makeup look, consider your skin tone and eye color. For example, if you have blue eyes, you may want to choose colors that complement and enhance your eye color, such as copper or bronze.
Taylor Swift Inspired Looks
Taylor Swift has always been known for her iconic makeup looks that perfectly complement her signature style. Her alternative makeup looks are no exception, and they can be easily recreated with the right products and techniques. Here are some Taylor Swift inspired looks that you can try out for yourself.
Classic Red Lip Twist
One of Taylor Swift’s most iconic makeup looks is the classic red lip. However, she often puts her own twist on it by pairing it with unexpected eye makeup or hairstyles. To achieve this look, start by applying a matte red lipstick that complements your skin tone. Then, pair it with a subtle winged eyeliner and a touch of highlighter on the inner corners of your eyes. Finish off the look with a sleek ponytail or messy updo for a modern twist on a classic look.
Smokey Eye Variations
Taylor Swift is also known for her sultry smokey eye looks, which she often pairs with nude lips and natural-looking skin. To achieve this look, start by applying a neutral eyeshadow base to your lids. Then, add a darker shade to the outer corners of your eyes and blend it outwards for a gradient effect. Finish off the look with a few coats of volumizing mascara and a nude lip gloss for a subtle yet stunning look. For a more dramatic variation, try adding a touch of glitter or metallic eyeshadow to the inner corners of your eyes for a pop of sparkle.
Overall, Taylor Swift’s alternative makeup looks are all about experimenting with new products and techniques to create a unique look that complements your personal style. Whether you’re a fan of bold red lips or sultry smokey eyes, there’s a Taylor Swift inspired look out there for everyone.
Step-by-Step Tutorials
Daytime Casual Makeup
For a casual daytime look, Taylor Swift often goes for a natural and fresh-faced appearance. Here’s how to achieve this look:
- Start by applying a lightweight, hydrating moisturizer to the face to create a smooth base.
- Apply a light coverage foundation or tinted moisturizer to even out the skin tone. Be sure to blend it in well for a natural finish.
- Use a concealer to cover any blemishes or under-eye circles.
- Apply a light dusting of powder to set the foundation and prevent shine.
- Fill in the eyebrows with a brow pencil or powder to define them.
- Apply a neutral eyeshadow to the eyelids and blend it outwards towards the crease.
- Line the upper lash line with a brown or black eyeliner and smudge it slightly for a softer look.
- Finish off the look with a few coats of mascara on the top lashes only.
For a more glamorous evening look, Taylor Swift often goes for a bold lip and smoky eyes. Here’s how to achieve this look:
- Start by following the same steps as the daytime casual makeup tutorial.
- Apply a darker eyeshadow to the crease and outer corner of the eye and blend it outwards.
- Apply a black eyeliner to the upper lash line and smudge it outwards for a smoky effect.
- Apply false lashes or several coats of volumizing mascara to the top and bottom lashes.
- Use a bronzer to contour the cheekbones, temples, and jawline for added definition.
- Apply a bold lipstick in a dark red or plum shade to complete the look.
With these simple steps, you can achieve Taylor Swift’s alternative makeup looks and feel confident and glamorous for any occasion.
Accessorizing with Makeup
Incorporating Jewelry
When it comes to accessorizing with makeup, jewelry can make a big impact. Taylor Swift is known for her love of statement jewelry, and she often pairs it with bold makeup looks. To incorporate jewelry into your makeup routine, consider matching the colors or textures of your makeup to your jewelry. For example, if you’re wearing silver earrings, try using a silver eyeshadow or metallic eyeliner to tie the look together.
Another option is to use your makeup as a complement to your jewelry. If you’re wearing a necklace with a bold pendant, consider using a neutral eyeshadow and a bold lip color to draw attention to your face. Alternatively, if you’re wearing delicate earrings, you might want to opt for a more dramatic eye look to balance out the overall effect.
Matching Outfits and Makeup
Matching your makeup to your outfit can be a fun way to make a statement. Taylor Swift is known for her coordinated outfits and makeup looks, and she often chooses colors that complement each other. When matching your makeup to your outfit, consider the overall tone and feel of the outfit. For example, if you’re wearing a bright yellow dress, you might want to use a pop of yellow in your eyeshadow or lipstick to tie the look together.
Another option is to use your makeup to add a contrasting pop of color to your outfit. For example, if you’re wearing a black dress, you might want to use a bold red lipstick to add a pop of color and create a striking contrast. When matching your makeup to your outfit, it’s important to keep the overall look balanced and cohesive. Too much matching can look overwhelming, so consider using your makeup as an accent to your outfit rather than the main focus.
Skin Care and Prep
Foundation for Long-Lasting Makeup
Before applying any makeup, it is essential to have a good base. Taylor Swift’s alternative makeup look requires a foundation that can withstand long hours of wear. To achieve this, start with a primer that can help smooth the skin’s surface and fill in any pores or fine lines. A primer also helps to create a barrier between the skin and makeup, preventing it from clogging pores or causing breakouts.
When selecting a foundation, choose one that is long-wearing and oil-free. A matte finish foundation can help control oil and shine, making it ideal for those with oily skin. Alternatively, a dewy finish foundation can add a healthy glow to the skin, making it ideal for those with dry or normal skin.
Skin Type Considerations
When preparing the skin for makeup, it is essential to consider the skin type. For those with oily skin, a gentle exfoliating cleanser can help remove excess oil and dirt, preventing breakouts. For those with dry skin, a moisturizing cleanser can help hydrate and nourish the skin, preventing flakiness.
After cleansing, it is essential to apply a moisturizer to the skin. A lightweight, oil-free moisturizer is ideal for those with oily skin, while a richer, more hydrating moisturizer is ideal for those with dry skin. It is important to allow the moisturizer to fully absorb into the skin before applying any makeup.
In addition to cleansing and moisturizing, it is important to protect the skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to the face and neck before applying any makeup. This will help prevent sun damage and premature aging of the skin.
Overall, taking good care of the skin before applying makeup is essential for achieving a flawless, long-lasting look. By selecting the right foundation and considering the skin type, Taylor Swift’s alternative makeup look can be easily achieved with confidence and ease.
Celebrity Makeup Artist Tips
Secrets from the Pros
When it comes to Taylor Swift’s alternative makeup, there are a few secrets that celebrity makeup artists swear by. First and foremost, it’s important to keep the skin looking fresh and dewy. This can be achieved by using a lightweight foundation or tinted moisturizer and applying it with a damp beauty sponge. To add a bit of dimension to the face, a cream bronzer can be applied to the hollows of the cheeks and around the hairline.
Another key aspect of Taylor Swift’s alternative makeup is the use of bold, statement-making eyes. To achieve this look, celebrity makeup artists recommend using a mix of matte and shimmer eyeshadows in warm, earthy tones. A black or dark brown eyeliner can be used to create a winged liner look, and false lashes can be added for extra drama.
Adapting Looks for Different Occasions
While Taylor Swift’s alternative makeup is perfect for a night out, it can also be adapted for more casual occasions. For a daytime look, celebrity makeup artists suggest using a more natural-looking foundation and sticking to neutral eyeshadows. A subtle winged liner can be created using a brown eyeliner, and mascara can be used to enhance the lashes.
For a more formal occasion, Taylor Swift’s alternative makeup can be taken up a notch by adding a bold lip color. A deep red or berry shade can be used to create a statement-making pout, while the rest of the makeup is kept relatively simple. A light dusting of highlighter can be applied to the cheekbones and brow bone to add a bit of radiance to the face.
Product Reviews and Recommendations
Top Picks for an Alternative Edge
For those looking to add an alternative edge to their makeup routine, Taylor Swift’s go-to products are a great place to start. One of her favorites is the Kat Von D Tattoo Liner, which has a fine brush tip that allows for precise application and a long-lasting, smudge-proof finish. Another top pick is the Urban Decay Naked Heat Palette, which features warm-toned shades perfect for creating bold and edgy looks.
If you’re looking for a versatile product that can be used for both eyes and lips, the Lime Crime Velvetines Liquid Lipstick in “Wicked” is a great choice. This deep burgundy shade is highly pigmented and has a matte finish that lasts for hours.
Budget-Friendly Options
Not everyone can afford high-end makeup products, but that doesn’t mean you can’t achieve an alternative look on a budget. One affordable option is the NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner, which has a brush tip similar to the Kat Von D Tattoo Liner and provides a bold, black finish.
Another budget-friendly pick is the ColourPop Yes, Please! Palette, which features warm-toned shades similar to those in the Urban Decay Naked Heat Palette at a fraction of the cost. The shadows are highly pigmented and blendable, making it easy to create a variety of alternative looks.
Overall, there are plenty of products out there that can help you achieve an alternative edge in your makeup routine, no matter your budget. By using these top picks and budget-friendly options, you can create bold and edgy looks just like Taylor Swift.
