It seems like there’s a new TikTok beauty hack every week that’s making waves, and the latest trend from French makeup artist Aliénor is no exception. Her game-changing technique focuses on discovering your personal contrast level and tailoring your makeup to enhance it. By aligning your makeup with the natural contrast in your face—whether low, medium, or high—you can achieve a look that feels balanced and effortlessly complimentary.
But Aliénor's contrast method doesn’t have to stop at makeup, it can elevate your style, too. Once you know your contrast level, you’ll have the perfect guide to choosing outfits that elevate your natural features. Here’s everything you need to know to nail this glow-up.
What Is a Contrast Level (And How Do You Find It)?
Your contrast level is all about the balance between your facial features, skin tone, and hair. To find it, snap a photo of yourself and switch it to black and white. This trick reveals how your features appear in greyscale, highlighting whether they blend softly or stand out sharply. Luckily, Alieenor has even created a TikTok filter to do the hard work for you!
Understanding your contrast is a powerful tool. Once you know whether you're low, medium, or high contrast, you can use this insight to adapt your makeup and wardrobe for a perfectly harmonised look. Let’s break down how to style each contrast level.
Low Contrast—Soft, Ethereal Vibes
If all your features—eyes, brows, hair, and skin—seamlessly blend together in black and white, you have low contrast. This gives you a soft, harmonious appearance where no one feature stands out. For low-contrast individuals, the 'no-makeup makeup' look is your best friend. Nude lips, subtle blush, and a hint of highlighter will enhance your natural softness without overwhelming your face.
In fashion, low-contrast individuals should stick to neutral tones and monochromatic outfits. Soft pastels, muted shades, and gentle patterns will maintain the natural flow of your features. Silky fabrics, flowing dresses, and light layering pieces create a cohesive, understated style. Think delicate jewellery and minimal accessories for an effortless, elegant look.
Medium Contrast—Striking the Perfect Balance
For medium-contrast individuals—typically those with medium-toned hair and darker features—it’s all about balance. You can play with bolder shades with a bit of intestate, incorporating smokey eyes, defined brows, and darker lip colours. A touch of blush will bring everything together in a naturally balanced way.
When it comes to style, medium-contrast individuals should look for outfits that mix textures and tones. Earthy colours, mid-tones, and subtle patterns work beautifully to unify your look. Try pairing structured pants with soft fabrics like knits or silks for an outfit that feels harmonious yet dynamic. A bold accessory or darker lipstick can tie everything together, but avoid anything too overpowering.
High Contrast—Bold and Dramatic
High-contrast individuals will notice sharp differences between their features—think light skin with dark hair and eyes. For you, it’s all about embracing the drama. Smokey eyes, dark lips and deep berry tones will create striking looks that perfectly compliment your naturally bold appearance.
Mirroring the makeup, boldness is key. Black-and-white combinations, jewel tones, and standout patterns like polka dots or colour-blocking will enhance your high-contrast features. Structured pieces like tailored blazers or statement accessories will add even more impact to your look, amplifying your aesthetic.
The contrast theory technique gives you a simple but powerful way to personalise your makeup and wardrobe, ensuring everything you wear feels balanced and flattering. Whether you’re leaning into an ethereal, glowing look or a bold, attention-grabbing style, understanding your contrast level is your secret weapon for a flawless glow-up. Make the contrast technique your new go-to.
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