Welcome to our column, “Hey, Quick Question,” where we investigate seemingly random happenings in the fashion and beauty industries. Enjoy!
A chapped lip look from Creatures of Comforts Fall 2018 show.
During fashion month, its typical to see recycled versions of been-there-done-that trends, reimagined with a modern spin – both on and off the runway. (Think: tailored pantsuits, all-over pink beauty looks and head-to-toe animal prints. ) Its also pretty typical to see bizarre trends crop up, like double-bagging, statement hosiery or dad shoes. But heres one thing we didnt see coming: Apparently forgetting your Chapstickis officially cool.
Yes, folks, chapped lips are A Thing, as evidenced both on the runway and, well, everywhere else. We first noticed it a few weeks ago on Maryam Nassir Zadehs e-commerce site, and just as sure as the Baader-Meinhof phenomenon, we subsequently couldnt un-see it. Later that week, a certain fast-fashion brand seemed to only feature models with dry, cracked lips. Then Harpers Bazaar Germanys March cover featuring Sarah Brannon surfaced, and the models lips looked anything but moisturized. As they say, twice is a coincidence, but three times a trend.
What gives? Are models just all suffering from some kind bizarre, large-scale lip balm shortage? Historical anthropologists (just kidding – we didnt ask them) may link the new trend in parched lips to the release of “Call Me By Your Name. ” The movie stars everyones imaginary boyfriend, Timothée Chalamet, who generally acts as though lip balm is his kryptonite IRL.
Were certainly not co-signing the look – there are fewer things more annoying than dry skin in the winter – but perhaps there is something strangely alluring about the grungy, I-dont-give-a-fuck-about-moisturizing vibe chapped lips evoke. And one things for sure: Fashion is opting in wholeheartedly. See what we mean in the ahead.
