As the fashion world descended upon Melbourne for the city's annual style extravaganza, the spotlight wasn't solely on the latest sartorial offerings. This season, the runways were ablaze with a dazzling display of makeup artistry, showcasing a bold and unapologetic approach to beauty. From vibrant color combinations to luminous, all-over glow, the makeup trends that emerged from Melbourne Fashion Week (M/FW) were nothing short of transformative.

Elevating the Everyday with Runway-Inspired Beauty

Skin Prep: The Foundation for Radiant Looks

Achieving the coveted runway glow starts with proper skin preparation, according to Kaydee Kyle-Taylor, a makeup artist and the head of makeup for M/FW. "You want to focus on hydrating products – I love using the squalane serum from The Ordinary before I layer on a base," she reveals. Sheet masks infused with hyaluronic acid are also a go-to for creating a dewy, luminous canvas.Translating the runway looks into everyday wear is all about finding the right illuminating and highlighting products. Kyle-Taylor favors clear, natural-looking formulas that lend a subtle, low-key luminescence. "We're not lit up by strobes in daily life, after all," she notes. Multitasking sticks from brands like Mecca Max, Westman Atelier, and Chanel are among her top picks for achieving an all-over glow.

Complementary Color Combos: Embracing the Drama

The traditional makeup rule of choosing either the eyes or the lips as a focal point has been thrown out the window. According to Kyle-Taylor, the secret to creating confident, eye-catching looks lies in embracing complementary color combinations. "I love putting blue on the eyes and matching it with a blushed pink lip. There's an '80s feel that's just so good," she enthuses.Runway shows at M/FW showcased a range of bold color pairings, from mint green and orange to bright pinks. The key, says Kyle-Taylor, is to think outside the box and utilize products in unexpected ways. "Lipsticks can be used on the cheeks and eyes. Blush can also be used in multiple spots. You don't always have to buy something new to experiment."

Shimmering Sensations: Glitter and Glow

Glitter is back, and Kyle-Taylor has the inside scoop on how to incorporate it into your beauty routine. "Start off with softer shimmers," she advises. "Urban Decay has a really fine sparkling shadow that you can build with. I also really like the liquid eyeshadows from Stilla. They're easy to use and just amplify looks."When it comes to application, you don't have to cover your entire eyelid in glitter. Kyle-Taylor suggests using eyeshadow to create a liner effect or strategically placing the sparkle on the outer edge of the eye. And don't forget the removal process – an oil-based cleanser is key for shifting glitter products, with a gentle sweeping motion away from the eye.

Nailing the Look: Elevated Manicures

Kaydee Kyle-Taylor is known for her impeccable nail game, and she's not afraid to experiment. "Everyone knows me for my nails … I'm a press-on [nails] queen. As long as your nails are done, you're good to go," she declares.Her current obsession is 3D nail art, and she's a firm believer in mixing and matching. "I love aura nails and using different colours on each finger," she shares. To create the perfect look, Kyle-Taylor keeps a stash of press-on nails in her kit, allowing her to tailor the design to the mood or the overall aesthetic. "You can pick a set that matches the mood or the look, and even wear them for just a few hours." Proper nail care is also essential, with cuticle oil being a must-have for maintaining healthy, hydrated nails.As the fashion world continues to push the boundaries of beauty, the lessons learned at M/FW serve as a reminder that makeup can be a powerful tool for self-expression and confidence. By embracing bold color combinations, luminous skin, and elevated nail art, you can channel the runway's captivating energy and elevate your everyday look to new heights.