Gothic revival

It’s hip to be Goth during the “ber” months. In reviving the New Wave era, out goes the minimalist tendency. Dig the heavily rimmed eyes of jet-black eyeliner and shocking red lipstick, which are embedded in the DNA of The Cure’s Robert Smith. Oh, he is quite a beauty icon, which inspired tons of Victorian-style modern Marie Antoinettes aka Gothic Lolitas.

To get the look, French brand Clarins is your passport to primping Goth perfection without looking daunting, of course. Inspired by the Roaring Twenties, the Jazzy Colors Collection is all about the essence of elegance and seduction. Very retro yet modern, the satins, silk fringes and silver sequins of the era influenced the color assortment that’s both feminine and sophisticated.

Fall beauty has never looked more elegant with a flawless complexion, deep-red lips and bewitching eyes. Colors swing and sway together like the finest couturier fabrics — satin rose, violet plum, graphite gray and shimmering blue. This new definition of glamour fascinates and intrigues with bold sophistication and liberated chic. Expect the return of eternal femininity surrounded by charm and refinement with the same notes of joie de vivre, energy and freedom that characterizes modern-day Garconnes.

Start by creating an ethereal and lit-from-within glow with the Instant Smooth Foundation. A star product, Thibault Vabre, Clarins makeup artist says, “The challenge was to find the perfect alchemy between the powerful effect of the Soft Focus pigments and a lighter color which boosts a natural healthy-glow effect.” An immaculate complexion, indeed.

Then, bring out the beauty of the eyes with the Color Quartets. For the perfect purple smoky eye, dig the So Chic with eye shadows in plum, glittering white, burnished gold and sparkling black shadows reminiscent of a moody Parisian nightclub.

For a bit more color punch, try the So Sublime, which will surely get you out of your makeup rut. Its bold, shimmering midnight blue, peach, silver, and flamingo pink hues are beyond delicious-looking.

Line the lids with the limited-edition Exotic Eye Liner in Extreme Black for that Kohl Cleopatra look. Since most femmes are used to good ‘ol black mascara, try the Wonder Length Mascara in Wonder Plum. It has a sexy shade and if worn with or without eye makeup, it will surely stand out. Top the look with the Silky Smooth Shine lipstick for that va-va-voom red, enough to get the glowing Goth praise.

Because there’s just nothing like the world of old-fashioned glam.

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Clarins is available at Rustan’s Department Store Makati, Shangri-La, Gateway Mall, Robinsons Place Ermita, Alabang Town Center and Ayala Mall, Cebu.