At the heart of Milan Fashion Week, Versace unveiled its Fall 2025 collection with a vibrant and daring aesthetic that resonates deeply with the brand's DNA. The fashion house’s creative director, Donatella Versace, embraced an unconventional approach, celebrating individuality and empowerment through flamboyant prints and metallic dresses reminiscent of the iconic Fall 1998 collection. This season, makeup artist Pat McGrath was tasked with crafting a beauty look that would complement the boldness of the garments. McGrath drew inspiration from the rebellious allure of model Kristen McMenamy, whose signature lip color has become a symbol of defiance and style.
To achieve this striking look, McGrath focused on creating a radiant base using her Divine Skin products, enhancing the models' natural glow. She applied luminous highlighters on the high points of the face to catch the light, ensuring every detail shimmered under the runway lights. However, the true centerpiece of the makeup was the lips. McGrath opted for a deep, rich burgundy shade, blending it with cooler tones in the center for a multidimensional effect. The final touch was a clear gloss, giving the lips a glassy finish that perfectly mirrored the audacious spirit of the collection.
The legacy of Kristen McMenamy is intertwined with the history of fashion. Her iconic appearances on runways during the early '90s, particularly for Chanel and Fendi, showcased her commitment to unconventional beauty standards. McMenamy's bold lip colors and grunge-inspired outfits became emblematic of a generation's rebellion against traditional norms. Today, her influence continues to inspire contemporary designers like McGrath and Versace, who celebrate diversity and self-expression. This collaboration between McGrath and Versace not only honors the past but also paves the way for a future where fashion remains a powerful tool for personal empowerment and artistic innovation.