There’s something enticingly fun and appealing about using makeup to transform your face with color and technique. It’s why I’ve been obsessed with the art and business of cosmetics for over five years.
When it comes to understanding makeup’s transformative powers, no one gets it better than drag queens. Queens have pioneered and popularized many makeup techniques like contouring and baking. They also use lipsticks, highlighters, and eyeshadows to change into drag personas for millions to watch, and they do it flawlessly. As drag culture has become more mainstream, millions tune into RuPaul’s Drag Race weekly to see their favorite queens perform and compete for the crown. Two of the most successful drag queens to come out of the franchise are Trixie Mattel and KimChi.
You’ve probably seen KimChi Chic Beauty at your local CVS and Trixie Cosmetics at Urban Outfitters. Now, the two have come together for a special collaboration. The power duo released their BFF4EVR makeup collaboration, combining eyeshadows, semi-matte and matte lipsticks, blushes, and highlighters. “We have a lot of neutrals that you can use to do a complete look, and we also have fun colors to make it extra special,” says Chi. “From there, we’re putting out the only products you’ll ever need to do a full face, whether it’s to go to the office or a party.”
While the makeup in the BFF4EVR collab is colorful and fun, the duo also paid close attention to detail with the packaging because it’s very important. “Much of the packaging design was inspired by Y2K girls magazines, which is what we grew up with,” says Mattel. “If drag has taught Kim and me anything, it’s that packaging matters. Ultimately, if we were not dressed up and lip-synching at the club, you’d be like those people who need to sit down and go home.”
For this collection, fans will notice bright pinks, blues, and heart-shaped compacts alongside an early 2000s computer screen theme across the board. Now that you know more about the collection, let’s get to the fun part—trying the makeup. Read my honest review ahead.
The Review
Before we go through each product, I wanted to note that all products in this collection are cruelty-free, gluten-free, and synthetic fragrance-free. The products are also free of parabens, sulfates, and talc.
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Here I am wearing a few products from the Kim Chi x Trixie Mattel collaboration including the eyeshadow, blush, highlighter, and lipstick.
Final Thoughts
Makeup is about self-expression and confidence, and the BFF4EVR collection has everything to capture those feelings. With various products for looks across the board, the collection is suitable for anyone seeking a neutral daytime look or something bold to party with a night. While two drag queens made the collection, it really is versatile and has something for everyone whether or not they work in nightlife.
You can shop the collection when it becomes available at kimchichicbeauty.com.
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