YSL Scandal Collection Palette Review: Colors, History, Tips

Yves Saint Laurent's makeup collections have long captivated beauty enthusiasts with their innovative colors, sophisticated packaging, and the brand's rich historical context. One standout offering from this iconic brand is the Scandal Collection Couture Palette, which pays homage to the bold aesthetics of the 1971 "Liberation Collection." While some may hesitate to embrace the palette due to its controversial inspirations, the selection of richly pigmented shades and the high-quality formulation make it a must-have for makeup lovers seeking both versatility and luxury. In this article, we'll unpack the nuances of the Scandal Palette, its historical significance, its colors, and how to best incorporate it into your beauty routine.

The Fascinating Backstory: Yves Saint Laurent’s Inspirations

A Glimpse into 1971

The Scandal Collection Couture Palette is steeped in fashion history. Yves Saint Laurent unveiled what is now known as the "Liberation Collection" during a time rife with cultural and political shifts. Critics described this collection in less-than-flattering terms, dubbing it “The Ugliest Show In.” The strident colors, unusual silhouettes, and overt nod to wartime aesthetics turned many heads, and not always for admiration. Yves claimed that his inspirations sprang from the elegance found in the years of hardship and deprivation resulting from the Nazi Occupation during World War II. Such bold assertions brought forth mixed reactions—while some applauded the homage, others saw it as an unfortunate romanticization of a grim past.

Understanding the Polarizing Effect

When discussing the inspirations behind collections from fashion icons, it's essential to acknowledge the delicate nature of memory and trauma. Many who lived through the 1940s possess deep-seated memories of struggle and loss, making it challenging to view that era through a lens of nostalgia. Films and photographs from the decade indeed display striking aesthetics, but they also mask the struggles faced by individuals. While certain design elements inspired by that time have indeed resurfaced and are celebrated in contemporary fashion, it's necessary to approach them with a balanced understanding.

The Palette: An Overview

Color Composition and Versatility

The YSL Scandal Collection Couture Palette contains five opulent shades that effortlessly blend together or stand alone. The selection is carefully curated to ensure that every color can cater to diverse makeup looks, whether for everyday wear or extravagant evening events. Each shade offers rich pigmentation, making it perfect for anyone from makeup novices to seasoned professionals.

Texture and Application

Opening the palette reveals a texture that is buttery-soft to the touch; one swipe will often yield enough pigment for an impactful application. The shadows can be layered for dramatic effects or diffused for a softer, more understated look. A unique feature of the Scandal Palette is its ability to be used damp, offering another layer of versatility for those who prefer bolder, more intensified colors for their eye looks.

The Jewel Tones Trend

This season, jewel tones have emerged as the must-have hues in makeup. The Scandal Palette features rich reds and deep burgundies, which are beautifully on-trend. These colors can effortlessly transition from day to night, making them suitable for the modern woman’s busy lifestyle. Pairing them with complementary shades from another palette, such as matte neutrals, can create stunning contrasts that elevate your overall look.

Creating Looks with Scandal: Tips and Tricks

Daily Wear Versus Special Occasions

To incorporate the YSL Scandal Palette into your routine, consider how each shade fits into both everyday life and special occasions.

For Daytime Looks

For a subtle yet chic daytime appearance, choose one of the softer hues from the palette. Apply it to your lid, blend slightly into the crease, and use a neutral shade to soften the brow bone. Doing so creates a natural, awake look—ideal for work or casual outings. You might even consider gently patting a satin highlighter from the palette onto your inner corners to open up the eyes.

For Evening Glam

When it’s time to step out for the night, don’t shy away from showing off the palette's bolder colors. Start with a rich burgundy as a base, blend into the outer corners with a darker jewel tone for depth, and finish with a shimmering highlighter to add intrigue and dimension. Adding a spritz of setting spray after application can enhance color longevity, especially in humid environments.

Textures and Tools Matter

When using the Scandal Collection Couture Palette, selecting the right brush can make all the difference. A dense, synthetic brush is ideal for placing pigment onto the lids, especially for bolder applications. For blending, opt for a fluffy brush that will seamlessly diffuse the edges and create a soft gradient.

Final Thoughts on the YSL Scandal Collection Couture Palette

The YSL Scandal Collection Couture Palette serves more than just an aesthetic purpose; it intertwines threads of history, artistry, and personal expression. As a collector, you may choose to display it as a beautiful piece of art or use it as an essential tool for creating stunning makeup looks. Whichever path you follow, it encourages an exploration of personal style that transcends mere trends, inviting us to embrace both the past and the present. Available for approximately $60 at select YSL counters and online retailers, this limited edition palette combines quality with an artistic declaration of beauty. Whether you are drawn to its rich historical references or its stunning array of colors, the Scandal Palette remains a captivating addition to any makeup lover’s collection.