Era-defining makeup always captures our attention for two major reasons. For starters, they have the potential to become timeless classics like the 90s brown lip. They also perfectly encapsulate the trends of the era into one seamless look. Y2K makeup is a prime example. An explosion of bold colors, shimmer, and frosted finishes—it embodied the fun, experimental and carefree nature of the early 2000s. Now, it seems that YK3 makeup is making a similar impression. This futuristic trend isn’t just taking over the internet; it’s been building momentum for a while.
You may have noticed the breadcrumbs that have led to this moment—Beyoncé’s Renaissance tour and the silver space cowboy looks it inspired, or Euphoria’s many out-of-this-world makeup moments. At the time, you probably chalked it up to a theme, but it’s clear that YK3 makeup is here to stay. Ahead, two celebrity makeup artists break down the trend and explain how to get the look.
Featured experts
- Amber Kerns is a celebrity makeup artist and hairstylist
- Emily Gray is a celebrity makeup artist
What Elements Define YK3 Makeup?
When thinking about YK3, one word comes to mind: futuristic. According to Amber Kerns, celebrity makeup artist and hairstylist, the look merges technology, fashion and glam to perfection. “The show Euphoria is a great example where the makeup was creative and allowed for a lot of self-expression,” she says. Still, several elements can be found in most of the looks. “Silver, chromes, neon colors and alien imagery such as stars and planets are all facets that define YK3 makeup,” says Emily Gray, celebrity makeup artist. The pro adds that 3-D fixtures are also common. “Gems, glue-made structures around the eyes and other parts of the face play into the futuristic feel,” says Gray.
Where Did YK3 Makeup Come From?
Fashion’s influence on beauty trends is hardly new. Season after season, we look to the runway for hair and makeup inspiration to carry us through the months ahead. Kerns mentions that the YK3 makeup trend is no exception. In recent seasons, AI technology has merged with fashion to create new-age designs. From metallic bodices to AI-generated designs and the spray-on dress Bella Hadid donned as the closing act to Coperni’s spring-summer 2023 fashion show, the mashup has been brewing for quite a while. The makeup followed suit, with similar styles to complement the futuristic designs.
Gray notes that the popularity of YK3 makeup has also increased as part of the anti-clean girl makeup aesthetic. “I think people miss the fun elements of doing makeup and being really creative. With YK3 makeup, you can play around and create something interesting and unique,” she says.
How To Do YK3 Makeup
YK3 makeup is all about self-expression, meaning you don’t have to adhere to rules. However, both MUAs agree that your look should include the staple silver color, somehow, be it on the eyes, cheeks, or brow bone. “Invest in a really great silver-chrome eye shadow or another fun space-inspired color palette,” says Gray. She recommends looking for a duo-chrome shadow that instantly creates a magical and ethereal look. Kerns adds that it’s important to remember that though this trend is all bold colors, it can still be soft. “When applying metallic shades, don’t be afraid to diffuse them for a look that’s simultaneously minimalistic and futuristic,” she says. You can even swap out silver for shimmery blue and green shadows. “Both of these colors work well with the trend and offer a different interpretation of the look,” says Gray.
Another pro tip Gray and Kerns swear by for YK3 makeup? Art supplies. The MUAs say that art stores are a goldmine for glitter, gold foil and gems that can add to the futuristic vibe of your look. “Keep in mind that you’re imagining what a future generation’s makeup might look like, so have fun with it,” says Gray. Take a look at their go-to product recommendations below.
YK3 Makeup Products to Try
