The line between Korean and Western beauty aesthetics is blurring, and no group exemplifies this shift quite like BLACKPINK. For years, the K-pop quartet has captivated audiences with their music and, increasingly, with their evolving makeup looks. While traditionally rooted in the subtle, dewy-skinned aesthetic favored in Korean beauty standards, the members of BLACKPINK – Lisa, Jisoo, Rosé, and Jennie – have demonstrably embraced bolder, more dramatic styles often associated with Western makeup trends. This evolution isn’t accidental; it reflects both individual experimentation and the group’s growing global influence, amplified by their roles as ambassadors for luxury brands like Dior and YSL.
A Tale of Two Styles
The core difference, as highlighted by beauty experts, isn’t simply about different “outfits” for the face, but fundamentally different philosophies. Korean makeup historically prioritizes achieving a naturally flawless base, emphasizing skincare and a youthful glow. The focus is on enhancing features rather than dramatically altering them. American makeup, conversely, often leans towards sculpting, contouring, and bolder color choices, aiming for a more defined and often glamorous look.
Lisa: From Sparkle to Statement
Lisa’s journey embodies this shift. Her earlier Korean-influenced makeup centered around a “doll-like” aesthetic – bright eyes accentuated with sparkles, a touch of pink blush, and vibrant lips. However, a recent collaboration with Kylie Jenner’s makeup artist, Ariel, resulted in a striking transformation. The new look featured bold blush, heavier eyeliner, and noticeably overlined lips – hallmarks of a contemporary American makeup style. This wasn’t a subtle tweak; it was a deliberate departure, showcasing a willingness to experiment with more dramatic techniques.
Jisoo: Embracing the Smokey Eye
Jisoo’s evolution is equally notable. Traditionally, her Korean makeup focused on subtly defined eyes with delicate eyeliner and wispy lashes. But during the group’s DEADLINE World Tour, she debuted a look that resonated with a distinctly “American” vibe: tanned skin paired with a smokey eye. The response was overwhelmingly positive, demonstrating a clear appetite among fans for a bolder aesthetic. This willingness to embrace a more sculpted and shadowed look signaled a departure from the traditionally softer Korean approach.
Rosé: Gradient Lips and Western Highlights
Rosé’s makeup has undergone a more gradual transformation. Initially, she favored a classic K-pop idol style – warm-toned eyeshadows and gradient lips, a technique where color is concentrated in the center of the lips and fades towards the edges. More recently, however, she’s adopted a more Westernized approach, incorporating overlined lips and strategic highlighting of the nose to create a more defined profile. This subtle but significant shift demonstrates a growing comfort with techniques designed to reshape and accentuate features.
Jennie: Peach and Glamour
Jennie’s everyday makeup is characterized by a soft peach aesthetic, with blush applied under the eyes for a youthful flush. But, like her bandmates, she’s demonstrated a capacity for dramatic change. A recent look featured a bold and glamorous smokey eye, a style strongly reminiscent of Western makeup artistry. This ability to seamlessly transition between a natural, everyday look and a more high-fashion, dramatic style highlights the versatility of her aesthetic and the influence of Western trends.
Beyond Aesthetics: Brand Influence
This shift in makeup styles isn’t happening in a vacuum. BLACKPINK’s individual brand affiliations play a significant role. Jisoo’s partnership with Dior Beauty, Rosé’s with YSL Beauty, and Lisa’s with MAC Cosmetics all expose the members to different aesthetics and techniques. These collaborations aren’t simply endorsements; they’re opportunities to learn from and collaborate with leading makeup artists, further influencing their personal styles. While the group incorporates Korean beauty products into their skincare routines, their makeup choices are increasingly driven by these international brand partnerships.
The Importance of Skincare
Despite the evolving makeup styles, the foundation of BLACKPINK’s flawless complexions remains consistent: a dedication to skincare. As Rosé emphasized, cleansing and gentle facial massage are crucial, particularly after long days of stage makeup and exposure to environmental pollutants. Investing in a healthy skincare routine is seen as equally important as purchasing high-end makeup products, ensuring a smooth and radiant canvas for any look.
A Global Beauty Influence
BLACKPINK’s impact extends beyond simply showcasing different makeup styles. They are actively shaping the conversation around beauty, demonstrating that it’s possible to embrace both Korean and Western aesthetics. Their willingness to experiment and push boundaries is resonating with fans worldwide, solidifying their position as global beauty icons and influencing the Korean beauty market itself. The group’s success, coupled with their brand partnerships, positions them as leading figures representing the best of Asian beauty on a global stage.
