On a crisp October night, Willow Smith took the stage at Sony Hall in New York City, captivating the audience with her performance. As the youngest child of Will and Jada Pinkett Smith, she emerged from the velvet curtains wearing a stunning outfit, featuring persimmon lace and chartreuse silk, complemented by a striking lavender eye shadow. When asked about the color choice, Smith explained that purple represents the third eye chakra. This attention to detail reflects the thoughtfulness in her artistry, particularly seen in her latest album, *The Thread*.
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At 25, *The Thread* is Smith's eighth solo album and is described by her as a "devotional album" inspired by her journey, nature, and a sense of coming home. "It feels like a sense of an arrival at a certain point in my career," she remarked. Smith acknowledges the bold beauty transformations she's undergone throughout her career, from being bald to experimenting with various styles and makeup. "I've done nothing, but now I feel like it adds to the energy," she added.
Smith attributes her confidence in beauty to her mother, who was an early inspiration in understanding personal aesthetics. Celebrity makeup artist Dee Carrion, known for her work with artists such as Doja Cat, has been instrumental in translating Smith's musical themes into striking makeup looks. "She really has been so instrumental, specifically with the makeup looks, for this album rollout," Smith praised.
Carrion noted that her approach involves vibrant colors and shimmers to capture the ethereal essence of Smith's music. For the performance, Smith's makeup was characterized by a bright lilac eye paired with Dior’s products, emphasizing color-blocking that reflects the vibrance of nature.
Smith's previous album, *Petal Rock Black*, drew inspiration from a monochrome palette that mirrored a period of creative isolation. In contrast, she aims to encapsulate the myriad of colors in life's tapestry with her current work. Carrion commended Smith's collaborative approach during makeup sessions, which adapt based on her energy.
The makeup team relies on staples like the Diorshow Overvolume Waterproof Mascara and the Dior Backstage Glow Maximizer for creating signature looks that balance shimmer and radiance. Smith expressed her love for highlighters, highlighting how they contribute to her onstage presence.
As she reflects on her artistic journey, Smith emphasizes the importance of self-love and authenticity. She articulates that beauty comes from embracing imperfections and nurturing one's sincere self. This outlook fuels her role as a beauty ambassador for Dior, which she sees as a groundbreaking platform for diverse representations.
Reflecting on her journey as an African American woman with tattoos and piercings, she hopes to broaden the perception of beauty, aiming for inclusivity that encompasses everyone.