Jessie Roux's Traitors Makeup Ignites a Colourful Beauty Rebellion
In a television landscape often dominated by subtle, natural aesthetics, one contestant on the latest season of The Traitors has defiantly painted her own path. Jessie Roux, the 28-year-old hairstylist who became a fan favourite, captivated audiences not just with her sharp insights, but with her vibrantly mismatched makeup—a joyful clash of red and yellow shades that has sparked a significant shift in beauty conversations online.
A Defiant Stand Against 'No-Makeup Makeup'
Seen through the traditional lens of received beauty wisdom—the 'au naturel', barely-there looks epitomised by trends like 'clean girl' aesthetics—Jessie's bold choice might seem jarring. Yet, on screen, it proved to be nothing short of brilliant: quirky, offbeat, and resplendently lively. Her look, reminiscent of Rupert the Bear's outfit or the primary boldness of the Lego logo, served as a powerful antidote to the notion that makeup must be discreet. Instead, it grabbed attention like a shield during tasks, offering a much-needed shot of visual warmth and whisky-like comfort amidst the show's narrative of drizzle and betrayal.
For many viewers and makeup artists alike, Jessie's style has been emboldening, particularly for those feeling trapped in a repetitive smoky-eye rut. It represents a conscious departure from the era of dewy, glossy, and fresh-faced makeup—more meadow than Matisse—towards something far more vivid and personally expressive.
Staying True Amidst Unconscious Bias
In the high-stakes environment of The Traitors, where blending in can often be a key tactic, standing out with such a distinctive look carried its own risks. Jessie herself admitted to pondering whether she should tone it down for television, questioning if people would doubt her genuineness or perceive it as an act to appear more trustworthy. "I felt it was important to stay true to myself," she affirmed, highlighting makeup as a crucial form of self-expression. This sentiment was deeply personal; she noted that due to her stammer, verbal expression can sometimes be challenging, making her bright makeup and clothing a vital comfort and a clear channel to show her true identity.
Her inspiration stems from a lifelong appreciation for colour, nurtured during lockdown when daily experimentation became possible. Growing up watching America's Next Top Model introduced her to the transformative power of makeup for different photoshoots, while figures like musician La Roux and hairdresser Sophia Hilton further fueled her creative vision.
The TikTok Effect and the 'Ugly Makeup' Movement
The impact of Jessie's look has transcended the screen, catalyzing a notable trend on TikTok. Users are enthusiastically applying marigold oranges and canary yellows to their eyes, experimenting with metallic prosecco shades on lids and under-eyes, and proudly 'channelling their inner Jessie' with deliberately mismatched eyeshadow. This movement aligns with a broader reclamation of so-called 'ugly makeup' on the platform, where unconventional beauty is celebrated.
Makeup artist Aoife Cullen, known for her futuristic and retro-alien-esque style, immediately noticed Jessie's distinctive approach. "To the knowing eye, Jessie is obviously someone who really enjoys beauty; isn't afraid to subvert beauty standards," Cullen observed. She is part of a growing community of artists, including Sean Brady and Garance Murru, who are pushing boundaries with drag-inspired and shimmery, colourful creations. Even Emily Wood, sister of actor Aimee Lou Wood, garners admiration for applying vibrant neons in everyday settings like buses and trains, declaring herself a 'face decorator'.
From Claudia Winkleman to Your Makeup Bag: Embracing Individuality
Jessie is not the only beacon of bold beauty on the show. Host Claudia Winkleman has long been an icon through her operatic use of kohl and signature fringe. Lucy Gibson, Winkleman's makeup artist, notes that while the look acts as an antidote to prevalent trends like 'clean girl', it was never deliberately contrived. "When someone finds their own style and commits to it, it becomes timeless and noticeable in a way that trends aren't," Gibson explains. She is witnessing a significant swing back towards colour, character, and individuality in makeup—a dialogue actively flourishing among artists on social media.
For those accustomed to classic black mascara and neutral palettes, transitioning to bolder looks can feel daunting. Cullen offers practical advice: start by swapping black mascara for a plum shade, then perhaps a dark green. This gradual shift allows comfort levels to adjust. On the eyes, she suggests maintaining traditional smoky eye shapes but introducing shimmer or a wash of different colour. "Once you find what colour looks great on you, you can go to the most extreme version of it," she advises.
The Ultimate Lesson: Attitude Over Aesthetic
Ultimately, this movement is as much about mindset as it is about makeup. Gibson highlights Claudia Winkleman's approach: she knows what she likes, owns it completely, and remains unswayed by external opinions. Jessie Roux echoes this empowering philosophy, offering a simple yet profound mantra to her newfound followers: "If you love colour, then go for it. It's always better to be yourself than to follow the crowd." In an age of homogenised beauty standards, her Traitors legacy may well be inspiring a more colourful, confident, and authentically individual era of self-expression.
