The CHANEL 2019 Cruise Collection, aptly named "Lumière et Contraste" (Light and Contrast), was a masterclass in capturing the ethereal beauty of the open sea, the sun-drenched landscapes, and the vibrant energy of a journey. This collection, meticulously crafted by CHANEL Global Creative Makeup and Colour Designer Lucia Pica, wasn't just about aesthetics; it was about translating an experience, a feeling, into a palette of colors and textures that evoked a sense of adventure and effortless chic.
Pica, known for her innovative and often unexpected approach to color, found her inspiration in the inherent duality of travel – the stark contrast between bright sunshine and deep shadows, the calmness of the ocean and the bustling ports, the raw beauty of nature and the sophisticated allure of a cosmopolitan setting. This collection was a testament to her ability to translate complex emotions and visual experiences into wearable art.
The Lumière et Contraste collection wasn't just a fleeting trend; it was a carefully curated selection of products designed to enhance natural beauty and create a radiant, healthy-looking complexion. It focused on illuminating the skin, defining features with subtle shading, and adding pops of color that reflected the vibrancy of the cruise experience.
Key Elements of the Lumière et Contraste Collection:
* Illuminated Skin: The collection prioritized achieving a luminous and healthy glow. Products were designed to enhance the skin's natural radiance rather than masking it. This was achieved through lightweight foundations, illuminating powders, and strategically placed highlighters.
* Defined Features: Subtle contouring and shading were used to sculpt the face and enhance its natural bone structure. The aim was to create definition without appearing overly harsh or artificial.
* Vibrant Pops of Color: The collection featured a range of colors inspired by the sea, the sky, and the surrounding landscapes. Blues, greens, corals, and bronzes were used to add pops of color to the eyes, cheeks, and lips, creating a sense of vibrancy and energy.
* Effortless Chic: The overall aesthetic was one of effortless chic. The products were easy to use and blend, allowing for a quick and simple application that still resulted in a polished and sophisticated look.
A Deep Dive into the Products:
While specific product names and variations may have evolved in subsequent collections, the underlying philosophy and core product categories remain relevant and represent the essence of the Lumière et Contraste collection. Here's a look at the types of products you would have found within this collection and how they contributed to the overall aesthetic:
* Complexion Perfection:
* Foundation: Expect lightweight, breathable foundations that offered buildable coverage and a natural finish. The focus was on evening out skin tone and creating a smooth canvas without feeling heavy or cakey. Look for foundations formulated with hydrating ingredients to maintain a healthy glow.
* Concealer: Concealers were designed to brighten the under-eye area, conceal blemishes, and correct imperfections. They were often formulated with light-reflecting particles to further enhance radiance.
* Illuminating Powder: This was a key element of the collection. The illuminating powder was designed to be swept across the high points of the face (cheekbones, brow bone, bridge of the nose) to create a subtle, healthy-looking glow. The powder typically contained finely milled shimmer particles that caught the light beautifully.
* Bronzer: A bronzer with warm undertones was used to add a touch of sun-kissed warmth to the complexion. It was typically applied to the hollows of the cheeks, temples, and jawline to create definition and dimension.
* Blush: Blushes in coral, peach, and rose shades were used to add a pop of color to the cheeks, creating a healthy and youthful flush.
* Eye-Catching Color:
* Eyeshadow Palettes: Eyeshadow palettes were central to the collection, offering a curated selection of colors inspired by the sea and sky. Expect to find shades of blue, green, bronze, and gold, as well as neutral shades for creating a base. The palettes often featured a mix of matte, shimmer, and metallic finishes, allowing for a variety of looks.
* Eyeshadow Singles: Individual eyeshadow singles offered the opportunity to experiment with different colors and create customized eye looks.
* Eyeliner: Eyeliner in shades of black, brown, and blue were used to define the eyes and add a touch of drama. They were often available in both pencil and liquid formulas.chanel 2019 makeup collection
* Mascara: Mascara was used to lengthen, volumize, and define the lashes, completing the eye look. Look for mascaras that offer long-lasting wear and resist smudging.
* Luscious Lips:
* Lipstick: Lipsticks in a range of shades, from nude to coral to red, were used to add a pop of color to the lips. The collection often featured both matte and glossy finishes.
* Lip Gloss: Lip gloss was used to add shine and hydration to the lips. It was often available in sheer shades that could be worn alone or layered over lipstick.
* Lip Liner: Lip liner was used to define the lips and prevent lipstick from bleeding. It was often available in shades that matched the lipsticks in the collection.