Male Gaze vs. Female Gaze Makeup: Which Style Suits You Best?

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The concept of male gaze vs. female gaze makeup has taken the beauty world by storm, but what does it really mean? This trend dives into how makeup styles can reflect either a softer, approachable makeup look typically seen through the 'male gaze' (think love interests in movies) or bolder, more experimental looks that appeal to the 'female gaze'—driven by creativity and self-expression over societal norms.

The trend went viral with the sound: “Don’t look at me with those eyes…what eyes” as creators showcased their interpretations of male gaze vs. female gaze makeup. Here’s my take below!

What is Male Gaze Makeup?

Male gaze makeup embodies a soft, effortlessly chic vibe. It’s inspired by the "girl next door" archetype—natural, sweet, and approachable. The goal is to look radiant and “effortless,” even though a lot of effort often goes into creating this polished look.

Key Features of Male Gaze Makeup:

• Glowing, sheer skin

• Minimal contouring, emphasizing natural features

• Neutral tones for eyes and lips

• Soft, fluffy brows

• Hydrated, kissable lips

Male Gaze Makeup as seen in Pop Culture!

Inspirations & Tutorials

1. Rory Gilmore from Gilmore Girls: Fresh-faced with sheer foundation, soft blush, and natural brows. Add a hint of gloss for a polished finish.

2. Alaska Young from Looking for Alaska: Natural makeup paired with vintage outfits. Lightweight foundation and earthy eye tones create a retro-chic vibe.

3. Brooke Shields in The Blue Lagoon: Sun-kissed skin and beachy waves. Use bronzer and a nude lip balm for an effortless island glow.

4. Victoria’s Secret Angels: Glowing skin with winged eyeliner and soft pink lips for a romantic yet flirty look.

What is Female Gaze Makeup?

Female gaze makeup is bold, artistic, and unapologetically creative. It’s for those who see makeup as a form of self-expression, inspired by trendsetters and pop culture icons. These looks prioritize individuality over societal expectations.

My Unique Take on Female Gaze Makeup:

• Glossy skin

• Bold lips or smoky, dramatic eyes

• Experimental use of colors and textures

• Unique shapes and lines, like graphic eyeliner or bold lipliner

Female Gaze Makeup as seen in Pop Culture!

Inspirations & Tutorials

1. Aria Montgomery from Pretty Little Liars: Gothic glam with bold eyeliner and moody tones.

2. 2016 Kylie Jenner Inspired Glam: Heavy contouring and matte lips for sharp cheekbones and greige tones.

3. Espresso Makeup Trend: Smoky, espresso-toned eye with high-shine lip gloss for a bold yet sultry look.

4. Pamela Anderson’s 90s Glam: Thin brows, overlined lips, and bold smokey eyes for a retro-inspired look.

5. Euphoria’s Maddy Perez: Graphic liner and bold shapes.

6. Sophia Loren’s Arabesque Cat Eye: Classic, vintage glam.

7. Margot Robbie in The Wolf of Wall Street: Bold magenta lips and smoky eyes.

How to Find Your Makeup Persona

Curious which style suits you best? Take the Male vs. Female Gaze Makeup Quiz to discover your makeup persona! Whether you’re sweet and effortless or bold and artistic, these tutorials will help you embrace your unique vibe and experiment with styles that celebrate your individuality.

Enjoyed this trend breakdown? Check out my What Animal Face Type Are You? quiz and article below for more fun insights into your beauty style.