Texture Clash

Share |

It’s a case of beauty imitating fashion this season with a mix-and-match of textures in make-up bags as well as wardrobes. 

It’s all about contrasts, playing one type of finish off another; glossy lips versus matte eyes, high-shine cheekbones against velvety stained lips.

With retro fashion dominating our favourite stores, it’s a clever way to give an otherwise old-fashioned look a very modern edge.

Get the Look

 

Focus on features

 

The easiest way to achieve a texture clash is focusing on two features; eyes and lips.
Bold lips aren’t a new invention but what sets them apart this season is their density. Go super-glossy by using a high-shine lipstick, then add layers of gloss for a glass-like effect - or conversely try a matte shade for a velvet appearance. For a real autumnal feel, choose a berry red shade.
This look requires a bit more technique when it comes to eyes, however. “To ensure eyes look uber-glossy, first prep your lids with a skin primer for a smooth finish and to minimise creases,” advises Emily Symon, product developer at Barry M Cosmetics. “Stick to using creamy eyeshadows and pat these on rather than rub,” she adds.

Or, for added gloss-and-go, a small amount of Vaseline smoothed over your eyelids will provide a budget way to get a high-fashion glow.
 

Tactile finish

 

The trend extends to your eyelashes with built-up, textured lashes all the rage backstage at A/W fashion weeks. 

Simply apply mascara liberally, building up the coats on both top and bottom lashes for a clumpy finish. You can use a layer of powder first to create even more texture.


For the more adventurous, dewy cheeks are a great way to clash your make-up finishes. Use a creamy highlighter on cheekbones after blusher for a sculpting effect, contouring the face. Try alone or combine with matte lips and eyes for mix-and-match make-up and three-dimensional skin.

What works for you?

 

The easiest way to go clash crazy is choose textures that flatter your best features, according to MAC senior artist, Caroline Donnelly. She says: “If you have small lids, gloss isn’t really going to work for you, it may feel uncomfortable, or you may not even see it. 


“In this case, a glossy cheekbone, or even glossed brows would be a more effective way to go. If, however, you have large eyelids, a gloss looks great and is easy to achieve.”