Side parts and beauty marks: how to style controversial makeup and hair trends

From side parts to bleached brows, we hone in on beauty’s most controversial trends and share tips on how to make them work

Credit: Her World
Credit: Her World
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Whether it’s on the runways or over social media, controversial styles like dark lined lips and “millennial” side parts have made a triumphant return in recent times – and people are divided on whether they should stick around. Love or hate these trends, there’s no denying that your favourite “It girls” will soon be sporting these look.

SIDE PARTS

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Despite some Gen Zers expressing their disapproval for the 2000s staple on social media, the recent styles of new-gen icons like Hailey Bieber and Sydney Sweeny suggest that the side part is making a comeback. Changing your part is not only a simple way to refresh your appearance, but it also frames the face, drawing attention to your eyes and lips. Achieving a sharp, clean part involves sectioning off your hair while it's still damp with a rat tail comb, followed by setting your style with hairspray.

BLEACHED BROWS

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Thanks to the revival of the glam grunge aesthetic, barely-there arches have made a comeback. Instead of reaching for the bleach, try coating your eyebrow hairs in concealer, going against and in the direction of your natural hair growth.

BEAUTY MARKS

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A well-placed faux beauty mark adds visual interest to the face and gives off an air of mystery. To channel the allure of icons like Marilyn Monroe or Cindy Crawford, dot long-wearing eyeliner on your face with a fine tip brush and gently buff it out with a blending brush for a natural finish.

BRUSHED-UP “BOY” BROWS

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This brow technique isn't exclusive to those blessed with naturally full arches and can be effortlessly recreated with makeup. Rather than using pencils or powders, opt for creamier formulas like gels and pomades to swipe on, allowing you to separate and sculpt the hairs.

RED SIREN EYES

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A crimson pout might be a perennial favourite, but the hue is just as statement-making when worn on the eyes. Ease into the red makeup trend and define your peepers by layering maroon eyeliner or eyeshadow over brown top-lined lids.

DARK LINED LIPS

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The bold, '90s supermodel lip, defined by a deep chocolate liner, is a timeless look that never goes out of style. This technique creates the illusion of a fuller pout while boosting the staying power of your high-shine gloss or satin finish lipstick.

Credits: 
Photography Lawrence Teo
Art Direction & Styling Adeline Eng
Hair Aung Apichai using Kevin. Murphy
Makeup Lasalle Lee using KVD Beauty
Models Zhou Yao and Liang Jia Yi/Mannequin

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