For centuries, philosophers, scientists, and artists have tried to decode beauty. The need to distill its ethereal essence into something finite and to idealize certain features created some of the first beauty standards in history. Such standards endured through the generations. Until now, that is. In recent years, the beauty industry has shifted the conversation towards individual expression like never before. While people, and women in particular, have historically faced pressure to conform to rigid ideals set by society, nowadays brands and consumers are embracing uniqueness and celebrating identity. Creating a platform for conversation and deconstructing taboos in the process, The New Beauty captures an essential moment of transformation in the business of beauty. Featuring interviews with Peter Philips, creative and image director of Christian Dior Makeup, and Thomas de Kluyver, global makeup artist for Gucci, as well as some of the most influential voices in beauty today, this book is exploring the industry’s shift and its effect on today’s culture from historical, scientific, and journalistic perspectives.
An explosion of modern influences—from technology to engaged activism to gender fluidity—has radically reshaped and globalized the perception of aesthetics. Beauty is no longer hinged on conforming and fitting in, but telling your story through your appearance. Taboos that were never talked about are part of the mainstream conversation, whether it’s body hair and odor, hormones, the realities of aging or the normalizing of acne. Makeup, for that matter, has moved far beyond fixing perceived flaws or camouflaging the face to become a new mode of self-expression, a medium to explore themes related to individuality, community, and creativity.
Ultimately, the future of beauty revolves around democracy: Bringing others into the conversation, breaking down barriers, removing stereotypes, and creating a more open space where the meaning and purpose of beauty can be expressed. The world of self-care and wellness has, historically, been homogenous—made up of faces, voices, and places that all look and feel the same. Now, thankfully, that’s no longer the case, as services, studios, and platforms speak more directly to those of all backgrounds, income levels, abilities, and body types.
From using makeup as a means to challenge gender, to the link between hairstyling and community-building, beauty can reflect broader social issues, and optimistically, be an agent of change. On another level, beauty is self-care—it transcends the surface and is closely connected to our emotional state. Tuning inward has brought a new wave of consciousness, in that we’re paying more attention to the impact of our actions and seeking out more sustainable practices. The beauty industry is notoriously wasteful, producing heaps of trash from single-use containers and plastic packaging. The new guard of environmentalists, though, is confronting such issues head-on, and turning beautifying into an opportunity to do good.
Appearances will always change but beauty doesn’t disappear. Our bodies tell a story of who we are—and it’s all there, reflected back at us in the mirror.
Specifications - Hardcover. 224 pages. Measurement: 21 × 26 cm
