By: Farrah Katherin Seucharan

Many women have their beauty routine down to a science, and it seems that there are tried-and-true routines that many of us rely on to look our best. However, we cannot deny the power of culture, a primary defining factor to our looks, whether genetic or created. Different regions of the world have invented their own go-to looks that can be seen on beautiful ladies in the streets and cafés throughout the globe. Take a look at what is in vogue around the world…

France

It’s a myth that might be proven true if you talk to the right people: at birth, more affluent French girls receive a tube of red Chanel lipstick! Gary or heavy makeup does not fare well with these ladies; they keep it simple and stylish. French women are more likely to play up one feature, such as lining the eyes or focusing on that red lip, than to go all out with full-face makeup and foundation – which is light if applied.

High – Chanel Rouge Hydrabase Crème Lipstick in Red No. 5
Low – Revlon Super Lustrous Lipstick in Love That Red

The Middle East

For Middle Eastern women, it is all about the eyes. Even in the daytime, eye makeup can be quite dramatic; the key is that dark shades, rather than colours, are used, which keeps the application and the look itself simple. Black kohl pencils, smoky shadows, and black mascara are must-haves. Usually this is followed with a lipstick or lip gloss in a pink or nude shade to emphasize the fullness of the lips.

High – M.A.C. Eyeshadow in Carbon
Low – L’Oréal Paris Wear Infinité Eye Shadow Singles in Lush Raven

Iran/Persia

While it is often mistakenly considered part of the Middle East, Iran does have a difference in culture and style, and the makeup trends are influenced by both Middle Eastern and Eurasian fashions. Persians also focus on the eye, but use more natural shimmers in shades of gold, bronze, and silver, which are paired with a darker liner. Sheer, natural, and pink lip colours complement this look.

High – Cargo Cosmetics Eye Shadow Palette in Ibiza
Low – Revlon Colorstay Mineral Eye Shadow in Tiger Eye

India

India’s daily look may be the most accessible: simple, black, kohl-rimmed eyes. Indian ladies are always on the search for the most intense form of kohl to wear! Originally used to keep the sun out of the eyes, it has developed into a standard in the Indian beauty wardrobe, and the look is found on both rich and poor women alike. Unfortunately, due to a cultural norm which deems light skin beautiful, skin-lightening creams are also popular in the Indian beauty market. (You’re beautiful in any skin tone, ladies!)

High – Guerlain Kohl Eyeliner in Kôhl Me Black 01
Low – Rimmel Soft Kohl Kajal Eye Liner Pencil in Jet Black

Japan

Japanese women are known for their beautiful skin, and they will try most any treatment to keep it in top condition. Creams, serums, and facial treatments for clear, bright, and youthful skin are big hits in the Japanese market. Some Japanese women shave their entire faces, not necessarily for hair removal, but due to the razor’s ability to exfoliate. Younger Japanese women cannot be pigeonholed into one look, and they may win the prize for the most imaginative styles in the world – look into Lolita makeup and fashion for a taste!

High – Shiseido White Lucent Brightening Protective Moisturizer SPF 16
Low – Aveeno Positively Radiant Daily Moisturizer with SPF 15

Venezuela

Venezuela is known as the Beauty Queen Capital of the world, and the population seems to prove this true – estimates have shown that Venezuelan women spend up to one fifth of their disposable income on beauty products. These women go for the entire look: the hair is highlighted, permed, or otherwise perfectly styled; nails are polished and manicured; clothes are worn to flatter curves. Makeup is meant to emphasize femininity instead of expressing creativity, and therefore a flattering lipstick, mascara, and foundation or powder are musts for most women, who try to look their best everyday.

High – Cargo Cosmetics 7 in 7 Kit
Low – Sephora Brand Deluxe Palette Collector’s Edition