The Alexander Report

Presenting a complete and total reflection of Spring 2009 is a heavy undertaking for any designer. Of course, runway shows provide designers with a platform to exhibit their creativity in high-end garment production and craftsmanship, but in order for a collection to standout, the designer must deliver a full, head-to-toe, complete package look. This includes great styling, accessory coordination, stunning shoes, hair and, last but not least, make-up artistry.

The model must exude the inspiration of the designers’ collection and captivate the audience, fashion editors, buyers and journalist alike, which sets expectations relatively high considering a runway show lasts only 5 minutes and takes from 6 months up to a year for a designer to prepare.

Setting the make-up palette and color scheme just right is critical for any designer because it sets the tone for what is to come. The runways at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Berlin rocked with various makeup trends from the naturally conventional to the bedazzling beautiful. Here we present the most striking runway looks of the season that you may want to emulate and make your own.

There is no question that Slavna Martinovic designs for the chameleon woman, who can transform her beauty to bewitch and enchant all eyes casted on her. This season Martinovic casted a spell on the runway that was bold and mysterious. Fiery red lips of power combined with a smoky intoxicating eye looked unusually exotic and feminine. The use of jewels to outline and define the eye shape was very Gipsy meets Far East.

Designer Vivian Westwood caused chaos on the runway as she unveiled her Anglomania Spring collection. The high spirited collection was targeted towards a younger, more casual customer. The models wore makeup that was realistic yet sexy. They featured simple eyes, balanced skin tones and the timeless red lips that complemented the bold colorful collection. The makeup itself generated an extra level of excitement on the runway.

It was a manifestation of the 1920s femme fatal at LAC ET MEL’s Spring ’09 runway show, where make-up artists contoured the lips to a baby doll pout reminiscent of famed American pin-up girls like Betty Grable, Greta Garbo and Clara Bow. The single most pervading beauty trend at Berlin Fashion Week was the classic yet always contemporary red lip. (more…)