The Christian Dior Spring-Summer 2025 couture presentation showcased an enchanting blend of whimsical and rebellious beauty. Drawing inspiration from Alice in Wonderland and counterculture, the makeup and hairstyling teams created a striking look that balanced femininity with punk aesthetics. The models strutted down the runway with flushed cheeks, feathered brows, and romantic punk mohawks. Makeup artist Peter Philips introduced "boyfriend blush," a softer take on his previous "workout blush" concept. Meanwhile, hairstylist Guido Palau crafted elaborate braided headpieces that evoked a poetic interpretation of punk culture. This avant-garde approach perfectly complemented Maria Grazia Chiuri’s collection, which explored themes of transformation and timelessness.

Reimagining Blush and Brows for a Soft Romantic Punk Aesthetic

The makeup team led by Peter Philips brought a fresh twist to the classic blush trend. Instead of the sporty glow seen in earlier collections, this time the focus was on a more subdued yet equally captivating effect. By applying blush lower on the cheekbones, Philips achieved a delicate flush that exuded a softer, more intimate vibe. The skin preparation included using Dior Capture Le Sérum followed by the Dior Forever Skin Perfect stick foundation, ensuring a luminous yet matte finish. Mascara was omitted entirely, while lips were adorned with a clear lip oil for a natural look. Eyebrows took center stage, with dramatic, feathery faux hairs drawn using Diorshow On Set Brow pencil, adding volume and texture to balance the bold hairstyles.

The concept of "boyfriend blush" emerged as a key element in this collection. Philips explained that the aim was to create a look that felt both familiar and new, much like borrowing makeup from a partner. The blush placement was designed to mimic a gentle, spontaneous flush rather than an intense workout glow. This softer approach allowed the makeup to harmonize seamlessly with the overall aesthetic of the collection. The use of clear brow gel to lift and shape eyebrows added an extra layer of dimension, enhancing the dramatic effect without overpowering the face. The result was a look that was both understated and impactful, embodying the essence of romantic punk.

Braided Headpieces and Mohawks: A Poetic Twist on Punk Culture

Hairstylist Guido Palau transformed the traditional punk mohawk into an elegant, braided masterpiece. These intricate hair designs, adorned with decorative elements, embodied a poetic reinterpretation of the rebellious style. Palau described the look as "romantic punk," emphasizing its feminine qualities. The braids and headpieces were meticulously crafted to complement the exaggerated proportions of the garments, creating a harmonious balance between fashion and beauty. This modern take on punk culture reflected how perceptions of beauty evolve over time, turning once-radical ideas into timeless elegance.

The hair styling process involved careful consideration of how each element would interact with the clothing. Palau aimed to create a look that felt both rooted in history and forward-thinking. The braided sections were woven with precision, forming intricate patterns that echoed the craftsmanship seen in the garments themselves. Decorative accessories, such as feathers and beads, were integrated into the designs, adding a touch of fantasy. The romantic punk theme resonated deeply with the collection's exploration of transformation and the blurring of past and future. Ultimately, the hair and makeup served as a visual metaphor for the collection's broader narrative, inviting viewers to step through a looking glass into a world where fashion transcends time.