Skin from Skunk Anansie. Photograph: Linda Nylind/The Guardian

Alternative Makeup: A Creative Guide for Every Personality

Here at Psylo, we create clothing that allows everyone to express their uniqueness, and we know how crucial makeup can be in completing your personal style. Whether you love a darker aesthetic, a natural look, or an eclectic and creative style, the right makeup can elevate any outfit and make it even more representative of your personality.

 

The Art of Alternative Makeup: Basics and Techniques

Alternative makeup is an art that transcends conventional rules, allowing you to explore different styles and aesthetics. The key lies in mastering basic techniques and then customising them to your taste. A well-executed base is essential: it can be very fair for a darker, more dramatic look, naturally luminous for a more boho style, or perfectly matte for graphic and modern creations.

 

Styles and Customization

Dark and goth

Vogue Korea July 2013 ‘Magical Black’ Ji-Young Kwak By Francois Nars

Vogue Korea July 2013 ‘Magical Black’ Ji-Young Kwak By Francois Nars

Contemporary dark makeup goes beyond traditional gothic aesthetics. Experiment with metallic finishes and different textures, alternating between matte and luminous areas. Eyes can be the focus with intense gradients and graphic lines, while lips can range from cool nudes to the deepest reds and blacks.

 

Natural yet Distinctive

Rianne Van Rompaey by Mikael Jansson in ‘La Bohéme’ for Vogue Paris November 2020

Rianne Van Rompaey by Mikael Jansson in ‘La Bohéme’ for Vogue Paris November 2020

A more natural approach doesn't necessarily mean minimal. Play with highlighters to create strategic light points, use bronzers and contours to sculpt your face, and don't be afraid to add creative elements like small crystals or coloured eyeliner to give a twist to the natural look.

 

Modern and Graphic

Copyright: Stefani Pimenta on Behance Mads Paige for Psylo's Tulum style lookbook

Pic 1 - Copyright: Stefani Pimenta on Behance
Pic 2 - Makeup by Lucia Gomez Fuente @lufuente.muah, photography by Pol Rodriguez @the.polf, model: Mads Paige @madspaige for Psylo’s Tulum Style lookbook

Contemporary makeup embraces geometric lines, bold colours, and daring contrasts. Experiment with graphic eyeliners, combine unexpected shades, and play with different textures. The key is maintaining precision in the application and balancing elements for an eclectic yet harmonious result.

 

Artistic and Avant-garde

Copyright: VANESSA DAVIS @the_wigs_and_makeup_manager

Copyright: VANESSA DAVIS @the_wigs_and_makeup_manager

Makeup becomes pure artistic expression when we free ourselves from conventional beauty standards. This approach transforms your face into a canvas where imagination knows no bounds. Mix unexpected colour combinations, create abstract patterns, or tell visual stories through your makeup. 
Don't be afraid to experiment with unusual materials and techniques - think face painting, theatrical makeup, or even UV-reactive pigments. The goal here isn't to enhance features but to create a powerful visual statement that challenges perceptions. Whether you're inspired by surrealist art, digital aesthetics, or your own dreams, this style of makeup encourages you to push boundaries and break the rules.

 

Tribal and Neo-tribal

Psylo's winter 2023 campaign

Neo-tribal makeup and hair by Juno @juno_makeupartist photography by Theo @vanstheo for Psylo's winter 2023 campaign - Desertcore and Dieselpunk.

In alternative culture, tribal-inspired makeup goes beyond mere aesthetics - it's about connection, community, and spiritual expression. Drawing inspiration from ancient traditions while incorporating modern elements, this style creates powerful symbols of belonging. Bold lines, symmetrical patterns, and sacred geometries can be interpreted through contemporary products and techniques. Whether you're preparing for a festival, gathering, or ritual, this makeup style helps express your connection to both your chosen community and ancestral traditions. 
The key is to approach these looks with respect and understanding, allowing them to tell stories of unity, strength, and spiritual awakening. For these looks, prioritise the use of natural products and mineral pigments that recall Mother Earth's colours: ochre, terracotta, lapis lazuli blue, and malachite green. Draw inspiration from ancient ritual decorations using natural henna, coloured clays, and plant-extracted pigments.

 

Creative Techniques for Special Occasions

For events, festivals, or special nights, makeup can become a true art form. Here are some elements you can incorporate into your looks:

  • Geometric patterns created with coloured eyeliners
  • Multichromatic eye gradients
  • Decorative elements like biodegradable glitter
  • Bold contrasts between different finishes
  • Metallic or holographic details

 

Essential Products and Tools

Choosing the right products is crucial for creating impactful alternative looks. Your collection should include: A good base of versatile face products that allow you to create both natural and more elaborate looks. Different types of eyeliners are essential for creating precise lines and graphic details. Eyeshadows with different finishes, from matte to metallic to holographic. Precision brushes for the most intricate details and sponges for perfect blending.

 

The Importance of Versatility

The beauty of alternative makeup lies in its versatility. The same look can be adapted for different occasions: graphic makeup can be made more subtle for daytime or more dramatic for evening. A natural makeup look can be transformed into something more creative by adding decorative elements or intensifying certain details.

 

Customize and Experiment

Litay Marcus | © Melanie & Ramon | makeup: Cecile Paravina Model Xiao Wen Ju in the March issue’s “Abstract Expressionism” editorial. Photographed by Xiangyu Liu

Litay Marcus | © Melanie & Ramon | makeup: Cecile Paravina
Model Xiao Wen Ju in the March issue’s “Abstract Expressionism” editorial. Photographed by Xiangyu Liu

Alternative makeup is an expression of creativity and personality. There are no fixed rules: experiment by combining elements from different styles, play with colours and textures, and create unique looks that reflect your current mood. Remember that makeup, like fashion, is a powerful tool for personal expression.
We'll never tire of saying it: whether you prefer a darker or natural aesthetic, minimal or elaborate, modern or with vintage references, what matters is that your makeup reflects who you are. Don't be afraid to mix styles and create something completely personal: it's precisely this eclectic mix that will characterise your style.


* Banner image: Skin from Skunk Anansie. Photograph: Linda Nylind/The Guardian

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