In the world of beauty trends, few things capture attention like the French approach to makeup: minimal, natural, and effortlessly chic. This aesthetic has long been admired, and it is once again making waves as beauty routines embrace simplicity over complexity.
French women are often lauded for their elegant yet seemingly effortless makeup styles, exemplified by public figures such as model and actor Camille Rowe, “Call My Agent!” stars Stéfi Celma and Camille Cottin, as well as “Emily in Paris” actress Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu. Others, like fashion blogger Carrole Sagba and makeup artist Violette, continue to influence this trend. Violette, in particular, has built an entire beauty brand inspired by this “French woman” aesthetic, known for its understated elegance.
Though the ideal of French beauty often feels like a fantasy, it’s less about a strict look and more about a certain approach. The popularized “French Girl” beauty stereotype often excludes diversity, focusing mainly on fair skin tones. But, in truth, the trend goes beyond looks—it’s about technique and attitude. At its core, French beauty is about simplicity, with an emphasis on “less is more” and an air of indifference toward the effort involved in the look. This approach may seem casual, but it’s far from careless.
One of the key features of French beauty is the so-called “bouche mordue” or “just bitten” lip. This look is achieved by applying bold lipstick over lip balm, dabbing the lips with a tissue to blot, and leaving a soft, stained effect. Violette’s Bisou Balm (£30) has become a popular product for achieving this exact look. The balm is designed to mimic the lip effect with just one step, and its two shades, Calisson and Amour Fou, create a natural flush that can even be dabbed on the cheeks for a coordinated look.
The French focus on natural beauty also leads to a departure from heavy foundation. Instead of aiming for a flawless complexion, many French women prefer lightweight tints and BB creams. Popular products include Typology’s Tinted Serum (£33.90), which provides sheer coverage and is known for its comfort and lightness. Concealer is used only sparingly, to cover up areas where redness or fatigue may show through.
Mascara is a must-have for many, but it’s applied in a way that enhances the eyes without looking overly done. For a natural finish, L’Oréal Paris Panorama Mascara (£12.99) is a standout product, praised for its clump-free formula and long-lasting wear.
When it comes to eyeshadow, French women keep it simple. Brown shadows are considered bold, and a few brands offer perfect options for everyday use. Laura Mercier’s Fresco (£23.50) is a reliable matte powder that suits many skin tones, while elf’s No Budge Cream Eyeshadow in Sand Dune (£5) is a versatile product that can be applied with fingertips for a seamless finish.
Ultimately, French-style beauty is less about products and more about an attitude of nonchalance and ease. While the look may seem effortless, it requires a balance of the right techniques and the perfect mindset: beauty doesn’t have to be complicated.
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