Tired of the understated 'clean-girl' aesthetic and barely-there makeup? A vibrant, rule-breaking revolution is sweeping the beauty world, inviting everyone to play again. This year's fashion weeks globally placed clowncore beauty and theatrical aesthetics squarely in the spotlight, with models confidently strutting down runways adorned in bold, eye-catching makeup.
What Exactly is Clowncore Makeup?
In simple terms, clowncore is a bold and expressive aesthetic that celebrates creativity over conformity. Makeup artist and digital creator Shantanu Dhope explains, "The aesthetic draws inspiration from the exaggerated world of circus performers. This involves bright colours, oversized silhouettes, whimsical patterns, and theatrical makeup."
Its roots trace back to 19th-century circus performers, whose dramatic makeup was designed for visibility under bright lights. This style was later reinterpreted by avant-garde fashion and drag culture. After a resurgence during the 2010s Tumblr era, it has now evolved into a high-fashion statement, revived by contemporary runways and celebrities.
Why is Clowncore Exploding Now?
The trend's powerful comeback is driven by a collective desire to break free from restraint. Makeup artist Sunny Pandey states, "People are tired of playing it safe. We've had years of minimalism but right now, maximalism is having its moment. Gen Z is driving this trend hard. They grew up with Instagram and TikTok where creativity and individuality are everything."
Adding to this, artist Meha Santos notes, "Clowncore feels nostalgic and liberating. It also brings back creativity and humour to fashion and beauty, which we've all missed." Celebrities like Doja Cat, Lady Gaga, and Chappell Roan have championed the look, using it to celebrate individuality and creative freedom.
On the runways, couture houses have embraced the aesthetic unapologetically. Brands like Matieres Fécales, Appjian, Aadnevika, and Juana Martin Haute Couture showcased full-blown clowncore looks. Think vivid eyeshadow swept to the temples, exaggerated blush, and unconventional lip colours that command attention.
How to Wear the Clowncore Trend
Makeup artists suggest accessible ways to incorporate this playful trend into everyday wear. For a softer take, glitter and rhinestones have emerged as wearable extensions, offering the same theatrical energy in a glamorous way.
Expert Tips to Try:
- Sunny Pandey: For daily wear, use your regular foundation and pick one bold element—a bright red blush or a pop of blue on lids. Experiment with blush placement and keep the outfit simple.
- Meha Santos: Start with coloured eyeliner and blush. Progress to contrasting eyeshadow colours from opposite sides of the colour wheel. Slightly overdraw lips and add gloss. Glitter or rhinestones under the eyes can catch light beautifully.
- Shantanu Dhope: Embrace a bold palette of reds, blues, pinks, and yellows. Don't strive for neatness. Add geometric shapes or use blush draping to exaggerate facial features.
The movement is also being propelled by social media creators like The Clown Makeup Girl, Galaxy Clown, and Chelsey Riddikulous, who have transformed it into a viral, visually striking beauty movement. With runway approval and a cultural shift towards unfiltered self-expression, the message is clear: your makeup can never be 'too much'.
