By Kitty Noofah
Photographer: CarolJMoir
Model: Kat Kasisopa
Drag performance is a theatrical art form where performers, often known as drag queens or drag kings, use costumes, engage audiences, vibrant and dynamic art form that celebrates creativity, self-expression, and often subverts conventional norms in both gender and entertainment.
Drag makeup is all about bold, exaggerated features and high drama. Here’s a step-by-step guide to achieving a striking drag makeup look.
1. Base
– Primer : Apply a primer to create a smooth surface and help makeup last longer.
– Foundation : Use a high coverage foundation that is a shade or two lighter than your natural skin tone to account for stage lighting. Apply evenly and blend well.
2. Concealer
– Use a thick, high coverage concealer to cover blemishes and dark circles. Apply it in a triangular shape under the eyes for a brightening effect.
3. Powder
– Set foundation and concealer with a translucent powder to prevent shine and ensure a matte finish.
4. Contouring and Highlighting
– Contouring : Use a matte contour powder or cream to define the cheekbones, jawline, and nose. Blend well to avoid harsh lines.
– Highlighting : Apply a highlighter on the high points of your face (cheekbones, brow bones, and bridge of the nose) for added dimension.
5. Eyebrows
– Shaping : Conceal your natural eyebrows with a thick concealer and set with powder. Draw new, more dramatic brows higher than natural brows using a brow pencil. Shape them to complement desired look.
6. Eyes
– Eyeshadow : Apply a neutral eyeshadow shade close to your skin tone over the entire lid to set the primer and create a smooth canvas for blending then apply a mid tone shade in the crease of your eyelid. This will act as a transition color and help blend darker shades smoothly. Use a darker eyeshadow shade to define the crease. Apply it with a small, precise brush and blend it upward and outward to create depth and dimension. Apply a bold, glitter, vibrant eyeshadow color to the mobile lid (the part that moves when you open your eyes). Use a flat brush for precise application, and pack the color on for maximum impact. For an exaggerated look, use a concealer to cut the crease. Apply the concealer above the natural crease line to create a dramatic contrast. Set it with a light eyeshadow to enhance the cut crease effect. Apply a bright, shimmery eyeshadow or highlighter to the inner corners of the eyes and under the brow bone. This adds a pop of brightness and helps open up the eyes. Use a clean blending brush to soften and blend any harsh lines between different eyeshadow colors, ensuring a seamless transition.
– Eyeliner : Apply a thick line of eyeliner on both the upper and lower lash lines. For extra drama, create a winged eyeliner effect.
-False Lashes : Use dramatic false lashes or multiple coats of mascara to enhance eye look. This adds volume and makes the eyes more pronounced.
7. Blush
– Apply blush generously on the apples of cheeks. Choose a color that contrasts well with foundation for a visible flush.
8. Lips
– Choose a bold lipstick color that stands out. Use a lip liner to define lips and prevent the color from feathering.
9. Setting Spray
– Finish with a setting spray to lock everything in place and ensure longevity throughout the performance.