How Makeup Artist Gucci Westman Crafted Taylor Swift's Iconic Red Lip Look

How Makeup Artist Gucci Westman Created Taylor Swift s Classic Red Lip

Gucci Westman, Taylor Swift. Getty Images (2)

Gucci Westman, a talented makeup artist, is the creative force behind Taylor Swift's iconic beauty look. In a recent interview on Today With Hoda & Jenna, Westman shared how she came up with Swift's classic red lip for her Allure cover in April 2009. She explained that she wanted to try a red lip on Swift because she had never seen her in one before. However, the final look had to be approved by a specific individual.

"Her mom, Andrea Swift, wasn't too keen on Taylor wearing red," Westman shared with Jenna Bush Hager and Hoda Kotb. "But I convinced her to give it a try."

After some persuasion, Andrea finally agreed, and Taylor, 34, ended up rocking red lipstick on the magazine cover. "And the rest, as they say, is history," joked Bush Hager.

Westman then demonstrated to viewers how they can recreate the look themselves. She emphasized the versatility of the red lip color, stating, “You can customize it to suit your style. Whether you apply it with your finger, a brush, or directly from the bullet, you can dab it on lightly for a stained effect. There are endless possibilities!”

Following Westman's makeup tutorial, Bush Hager complimented the stunning red lip look on the model, commenting, “Red lips are universally flattering on everyone.”

Westman has collaborated with many famous Hollywood celebrities such as Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, and Cameron Diaz. Recently, she did Gwyneth Paltrow's makeup for her wedding to Brad Falchuk in 2018. Additionally, Westman worked with Anne Hathaway for her Vanity Fair cover in April 2024.

How Makeup Artist Gucci Westman Created Taylor Swift s Classic Red Lip

Westman shared a throwback photo of Taylor Swift's Allure cover on Instagram in November 2021. She mentioned that the look was inspired by Vargas girls and she even gave Taylor her own tube of lip color. The post also featured a behind-the-scenes shot of Westman applying the lip color on the singer known for "Lavender Haze."

Westman worked with Taylor Swift again for her Vogue cover in February 2012. In a YouTube video from April 2022, the founder of Westman Atelier shared a fun fact that the cover was shot on the eve of Taylor's 22nd birthday. This marked a significant transition for Taylor from country to pop music, both in her personal life and career. This transition inspired them to create a cover that truly represented the new Taylor.

Inspired by iconic stars like Jean Shrimpton and Penelope Tree, Taylor Swift graced the cover with a ’60s and ’70s-inspired look. She rocked a large floppy hat, bold eyeliner, a nude lip, and bangs. Makeup artist Westman shared, “People were used to seeing Taylor Swift with a red lip because, actually, I was the first person to do a red lip on her. … After that, she was never seen without a red lip, so that was pretty cool.”

In conclusion, Westman praised Taylor as “incredible” and expressed excitement for her future endeavors. She added, “I look forward to everything else that you’re gonna do. So, good luck and we’ll be rooting for you.”

Editor's P/S:

Gucci Westman's interview sheds light on the iconic collaboration that gave Taylor Swift her signature red lip look. Westman's determination and Andrea Swift's reluctance highlight the importance of pushing boundaries while respecting individual preferences. The versatility of the red lip, demonstrated by Westman, empowers individuals to customize their look, embracing their unique styles.

Westman's continued partnership with Swift showcases the evolution of both the singer and her artistry. From the classic red lip to the iconic Vogue cover, Westman has played a crucial role in shaping Swift's aesthetic, reflecting her transition from country to pop and her growth as an artist. The article highlights the enduring power of collaboration and the impact of makeup in expressing personal style and artistic vision.