?? Bidding Farewell to Trends ??

Makeup has always been my creative sanctuary—a harmonious blend of my passion for art and my profession in the realm of mental health. It's simply mind-boggling how a swipe of lipstick can work wonders, bolstering confidence, empowering individuals, and even lifting spirits.

Now, in this fast-paced digital age, trends come and go faster than you can say "cat-eye liner." 2023 trends felt like time traveling back to the 90s, with moments of déjà vu mixed with modern twists. Remember the platform shoes, tendrils, and the infamous dark lip liner coupled with lip gloss? Well, we may not have fully channeled our inner Cher Horowitz, but some of those elements are making a comeback—sometimes for the better, sometimes not so much.

While I admire the younger generation's gusto in embracing '90s trends, I find myself gravitating towards the "less is more" approach. I strive for an effortless style that truly reflects who I am. So, dear Gen Z, you'll soon find yourselves on the "older" side of the trend spectrum, and trust me, it's a great place to be when you don't have to constantly worry about keeping up. Just ask yourself, "Is it for me?" when you get there.

But let's take a moment to ponder the uninspiring decisions made by certain bargain brands attempting to mimic high-end products. Wouldn't it be splendid if more brands understood and catered to the visionaries among us, instead of shamelessly copying their work?

And have you noticed how certain trends explode just as soon as the person who made them famous releases their own version? It's a tactic that works like magic, fuelled by the passion of the youth who scroll, idolise celebrities, and yearn for new experiences. But let's not forget, us folks over 35 have seen this all before.

From chasing the coveted full beat makeup look to embracing the "no makeup" vibe, it's utterly enthralling to witness the evolution and boundary-pushing nature of these trends. Freckles transform from a gentle touch to bold features, and eyebrows have shifted from subtle companions to unapologetic statements. The quest to redefine beauty continues with every brushstroke.

Ah, the Kardashians. Love them or loathe them, they have become icons of this ever-changing digital era—representing the spirit of the times. While not everyone resonates with their aesthetic, we can't deny the colossal impact they've had on the industry and the trends that emerge from their influential grip.

But let's hit the pause button for a moment and remember that trends are mere illusions. They seem to manifest all at once, yet we've transcended the narrow focus on trendiness and entered a post-trend era. This is where individuality thrives, diversity shines, and the collective voice reverberates.

In a world where competition can be cut-throat, I choose to embrace the belief that there's room for everyone to succeed. We can all put in an honest day's work while celebrating the diversity within our communities and being accountable to our cherished consumers. And in the field of mental health, where I have the privilege of working, nurturing a supportive and inclusive community is paramount.

So, let's create a space where everyone feels a sense of belonging—a place where we celebrate our unique contributions. As we venture into uncharted territories with new looks and products, let's remember the power we wield to create positive change, not only in our outward appearance but also in how we feel.

So, here's to a year of self-expression, empathy, and breaking free from the pressure to conform. Let's inspire and uplift each other through our words, knowledge, and understanding of mental health.

Together, let's embrace the joy that makeup brings and channel it into a force for self-acceptance, resilience, overall well-being and a little bit of cheeky wit.

Here's to a beautiful and mentally healthy 2024! Cheers!??