The Overall Makeup Philosophy of VS 2017

The Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2017 embraced a philosophy that celebrated individuality within a cohesive aesthetic. Makeup artist teams understood that each model had different skin tones, eye shapes, and facial structures, yet the overall collection needed to feel unified. This approach meant creating a color palette and technique framework while allowing flexibility for customization.

The overarching theme focused on radiant, youthful skin combined with strategic eye emphasis. Rather than heavy, dramatic makeup, the artists opted for a modern approach that prioritized skin health and luminosity. This trend aligned with broader beauty industry movements toward skin-forward makeup that lets natural beauty shine through enhanced features.

Understanding this philosophy helps you appreciate why certain products and techniques were chosen. The makeup wasn’t about covering skin—it was about enhancing and celebrating it. This distinction matters whether you’re studying professional makeup artistry or trying to recreate these looks yourself.

Eye Makeup: Bold Definition Meets Softness

The eye makeup at the fashion show Victoria secret 2017 represented a masterful balance between definition and approachability. Makeup artists used several key techniques to create eyes that popped under runway lighting while remaining elegant and not overly theatrical.

Eyeliner Application: The primary technique involved tight-lining—applying dark liner to the upper waterline for definition without the heaviness of a traditional winged liner. Many models received a subtle smudged line along the upper lash line, creating depth without drama. The color choice was typically deep brown or black, chosen to complement individual skin tones rather than applying one universal shade.

Eyeshadow Placement: Neutral and warm-toned eyeshadows dominated the show. Artists applied matte shadows to the crease for definition, then used shimmer or satin finishes on the lid. The shimmer wasn’t glittery or overly shiny—instead, it provided a subtle glow that caught stage lighting beautifully. Champagne, gold, and bronze tones appeared frequently, creating warmth that flattered diverse complexions.

Mascara Technique: Multiple coats of volumizing mascara created full, feathered lashes without the spidery appearance. Many artists used individual lash extensions or applied mascara in specific directions to create the illusion of lifted, separated lashes. The focus was on opening up the eye area and creating dimension.

If you’re interested in learning more about professional eye makeup techniques for fashion shows, studying the VS 2017 collection provides excellent reference material for understanding how professionals adapt makeup for different lighting conditions and camera angles.

Skin Prep and Base Products

Before any color was applied, the makeup artists invested significant time in skin preparation. This foundational step determined the success of the entire makeup look, particularly important under the intense runway lighting.

Primer Selection: Silicone-based primers dominated backstage, chosen for their ability to create a smooth canvas and extend makeup longevity. These primers filled in pores and fine lines, creating an airbrushed base that looked natural rather than heavily filtered. Some models received hydrating primers if their skin appeared dehydrated, while others got mattifying versions for shine control.

Foundation Application: The foundation matched skin tone precisely—no orange undertones or ashy finishes. Artists used a combination of techniques including stippling, buffing, and blending to ensure seamless coverage. Rather than full-face coverage, many models received strategic foundation application, with concealer used only where needed. This approach maintained skin texture and natural appearance.

Concealer Placement: Concealer targeted specific areas: under eyes for brightening, around the nose for definition, and on any blemishes or discoloration. The shade was typically one to two shades lighter than the foundation, applied in thin layers and blended carefully to avoid caking.

The emphasis on proper foundation and primer application reflects professional standards that ensure makeup photographs beautifully and lasts through hours of activity. This preparation step separates amateur and professional makeup application.

Lip Color Trends from the Runway

Lip color at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2017 showcased sophisticated restraint. Rather than bold, statement-making lips, the makeup artists chose shades that complemented each model’s complexion while maintaining visual balance with the emphasized eyes.

Nude and Warm Tones: The dominant lip colors ranged from warm nudes to soft roses. These shades created a universally flattering, modern aesthetic that didn’t compete with the eye makeup. Makeup artists selected specific nude undertones for different skin tones—peachy nudes for warm complexions, cooler mauves for deeper skin tones, and pink-toned nudes for fair complexions.

Finish and Application: Most models wore satin or cream finishes rather than matte or glossy options. Satin finishes provided sophistication and longevity without the drying effect of matte lipstick or the sticky feeling of gloss. Application was precise, with lip liners used to define and contain color, preventing feathering under stage lights.

Lip Balm and Hydration: Before color application, artists applied hydrating lip balm, allowing it to set before blotting excess. This technique ensured lips appeared plump and healthy rather than dry or cakey. Hydrated lips also photograph better and maintain color more effectively throughout the show.

Understanding how professional makeup artists select lip colors helps you make better choices when shopping for your own products. The VS 2017 approach demonstrates that sophisticated beauty often means choosing understated shades and finishes that enhance rather than dominate.

Cheek and Contour Techniques

Cheek color and contouring at the fashion show victoria secret 2017 followed a principle of enhancement rather than transformation. Makeup artists used these techniques to add dimension and warmth while maintaining natural-looking proportions.

Blush Application: Cream blushes were favored for their blendability and natural finish. Artists applied blush to the apples of cheeks, blending upward toward temples. Colors ranged from peachy tones to soft roses, chosen to complement lip colors and overall skin tone. The application was strategic—enough to add color and dimension, but not so much that it appeared artificial under bright lighting.

Contour and Highlighting: Rather than heavy contouring, the approach was subtle and strategic. Cream contour products in shades slightly deeper than skin tone created gentle shadow definition along cheekbones and jawlines. Highlighter was applied sparingly to the highest points of cheekbones, bridge of nose, and inner corners of eyes, creating a natural luminosity rather than obvious glitter or shine.

Product Coordination: Makeup artists ensured that blush, contour, and highlight products worked harmoniously together. The undertones aligned—warm blush with warm contour and gold-toned highlight, or cool blush with cool contour and silver-toned highlight. This coordination created cohesion that appeared intentional and professional.

Learning proper contouring and blush application techniques from professional makeup artists helps you develop skills that enhance your features naturally. The VS 2017 collection demonstrates that effective makeup doesn’t require heavy-handed techniques.

Hair and Makeup Coordination

The relationship between hair and makeup styling was crucial to the overall success of each look. Makeup artists coordinated with hair teams to ensure that neither element competed for attention while both complemented the lingerie.

Face-Framing Considerations: When hair was pulled back in sleek styles, makeup was often slightly more prominent, with bolder eye definition. When hair was worn down or voluminous, makeup was sometimes more subtle to avoid overwhelming the overall look. This balance demonstrates the interconnected nature of professional beauty styling.

Skin Visibility: Hair styling choices affected how much skin was visible, which influenced makeup application. Slicked-back hairstyles meant more face exposure, requiring flawless skin preparation and precise makeup application. Softer, face-framing styles allowed slight imperfections to be less noticeable.

Color Harmony: Makeup undertones were selected to complement hair color. Warm makeup tones worked beautifully with golden or warm-toned hair, while cool makeup undertones balanced platinum or ash-toned hair. This attention to color theory created polished, professional results.

Recreating the Look at Home

You don’t need professional makeup artist skills to recreate the Victoria’s Secret 2017 aesthetic. By understanding the key principles and techniques, you can adapt these looks for everyday wear or special occasions.

Product Recommendations: Start with a good primer suited to your skin type. Choose a foundation that matches your skin tone precisely, applying it with a damp beauty sponge for seamless blending. For eyes, invest in a neutral eyeshadow palette with matte and shimmer finishes. Warm-toned palettes work for most skin tones, but verify that shades complement your complexion before purchasing.

Application Steps: Begin with skin preparation—cleanse, moisturize, and apply primer. Apply foundation and concealer, setting with translucent powder only where needed. Apply eyeshadow using a matte shade in the crease for definition and a shimmer on the lid. Line the upper waterline with a dark pencil liner for definition. Apply mascara in multiple thin coats. Add cream blush to the apples of cheeks, blending upward. Apply lip color in a shade that complements your complexion, using a lip liner for precision.

Customization for Your Features: Adjust the intensity of each step based on your features and the occasion. For casual wear, use less mascara and blush. For evening events, layer products slightly more for additional depth and dimension. Remember that the VS 2017 aesthetic prioritized enhancement rather than transformation, so avoid over-applying any single product.

Professional Insights and Backstage Details

Understanding the professional context behind the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show 2017 makeup provides valuable insights into how makeup artists approach high-stakes beauty projects.

Timeline and Preparation: Makeup teams began their work hours before the show, allowing time for each model’s complete beauty application. Backup products were available for touch-ups and adjustments. Makeup artists worked in teams, with lead artists overseeing consistency while other artists handled specific applications like eyeshadow or lip color.

Lighting Considerations: Professional makeup artists account for runway lighting when selecting products and techniques. Warm stage lighting can shift color perception, so makeup artists often chose slightly cooler undertones to compensate. Matte and satin finishes photograph better than high-shine options under bright lights, influencing product selection.

Longevity and Touch-ups: Makeup needed to last through the entire show without requiring major touch-ups. Setting sprays were used to extend wear time, and products were chosen for their staying power. Even with these precautions, makeup artists had touch-up stations available between segments.

The professional makeup artistry standards demonstrated at major fashion shows like VS 2017 represent the pinnacle of makeup application. These events showcase what’s possible when makeup artists have ample time, professional-grade products, and team support.

For those interested in how fashion intersects with beauty, exploring fashion and beauty content provides broader context for understanding these trends. Additionally, learning about sustainable fashion brands helps you understand the industry’s evolving values beyond just aesthetics.

FAQ

What were the main makeup colors used at Victoria’s Secret 2017?

The primary colors included warm-toned eyeshadows in bronze, champagne, and gold; nude and rose-toned lip colors; and neutral to warm blush shades. These colors were selected to complement diverse skin tones while maintaining visual cohesion across the entire show.

How can I recreate the Victoria’s Secret 2017 makeup look?

Start with proper skin preparation using primer and foundation. Apply warm-toned neutral eyeshadow with a matte shade in the crease and shimmer on the lid. Line the upper waterline for definition, apply volumizing mascara, add cream blush to cheeks, and finish with a nude or rose-toned lip color.

What products work best for achieving this aesthetic?

Silicone-based primers, full-coverage foundations, neutral eyeshadow palettes with warm tones, cream blushes, and satin-finish lip products all work well. Look for products that blend smoothly and have good longevity for lasting wear.

Is the VS 2017 makeup look suitable for everyday wear?

Absolutely. The aesthetic prioritized enhancement and wearability over drama. By using less product and adjusting intensity, you can adapt this look for casual daily wear while maintaining its sophisticated, polished appearance.

How do professional makeup artists ensure makeup lasts through an entire fashion show?

They use quality primers, long-wearing products, and setting sprays. Strategic application focuses on areas prone to smudging or fading. Backup products and touch-up stations are available throughout the event for quick adjustments.