Cape Town Fashion Week 2024: MAC Cosmetics Beauty Preview
AFI Insider
Cape Town Fashion Week: The Edit SS24 is on the horizon, and MAC Cosmetics National Artist Mokgadi Shogole is at the helm of the beauty looks that will grace the runway. Known for expert artistry and a deep understanding of African beauty trends, Shogole shares insights into the intersection of culture, creativity, and cosmetics.
“Cape Town is one of the creative epicentres of the African continent. It balances a light, playful aesthetic with a strong, gritty streetwear culture,” Mokgadi explains.
“I am expecting to see looks change from a festival of mixed metals focused on jewels to deep warm cranberry shades, as it is a long-term colour palette of AW24.”
A Shift Toward Skin-Like Finishes
Mokgadi Shogole MAC National Make-Up Artist
MAC has observed a significant evolution in makeup preferences this year. “Consumers are looking for skin-like makeup finishes and shades that complement their skin rather than heavy makeup,” says Mokgadi.
“We are seeing bold lips trending again, especially deep tones. Monochromatic makeup looks are coming back strong like the 90s.”
As for the trends we are likely to see on excited to embrace, Shogole highlights two standouts:
The Cranberry Make-Up Trend by MAC Cosmetics
“Cranberry makeup is bringing rich tones to holiday parties this season, inspired by our hero lipstick ‘Diva.’ Quite grunge is the second trend, inspired by the 90s era. We are going to see cool-toned shades, makeup done less perfect, and more playful.”
In contrast, Mokgadi is ready to leave certain trends behind. “Heavily drawn and concealed brows are a thing of the past. We can go back to eyebrows not overpowering the look for the day.”
AFI’s commitment to diversity is mirrored in MAC’s approach to runway beauty. “With our wide range of shades and technology-based products, we can swatch the models for every skin tone,” Mokgadi says. “We use colour theory to adapt the shades for all and use different textures to correct and perfect.”
Key products include the iconic Studio Fix Fluid Foundation, available in 71 inclusive shades, and colour correctors from MAC’s concealer palettes to neutralise and perfect skin tones. To elevate these diverse looks, Shogole shares her techniques: “We focus on neutralising, correcting, and creating a flawless base with products that blend seamlessly into the skin.”
Spotlight on Statement Features
The MAC 40 Shades of Pride Eyeshadow Palette
Eyeliner, a highlight at global fashion weeks, will also take centre stage in Cape Town. “Our waterproof pencils are great for under-eye looks, while our gel and pen liners are perfect for precise and sharp artistic lines,” Shogole notes.
For eyeshadow, Mokgadi is excited about MAC’s 40 Shades of Pride Eyeshadow Palette. “It features 40 shades, including favourites, existing heroes, and innovative new hues. The palette combines eyeshadow, blush, and highlighter shades, making it versatile and runway-ready.”
Lips, Blush, and the Perfect Balance
When it comes to bold lips, Mokgadi shares, “A deep maroon lip with a brown undertone will bring the 90s runway look back, while a tilted blue denim look will provide a contrast for designers using orange shades.”
Blush also plays a pivotal role in the runway's aesthetic. “Blush smoothie has been MAC’s number one trend this year. We mix our soft and bouncy GlowPlay blushes with our technology-powered Hyper Real Serumizer to create a healthy glow on the cheeks. Sunkissed blush placement is our runway favourite.”
Finally, striking a balance between high-contrast couture and softer, everyday beauty is key. “A diverse continent will always have strong high-contrast couture inspired by cultures, but softer, low-contrast looks celebrating individuality are also on the rise. A mix of both can create a great balance.”