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Though there are countless artists who break records on YouTube or earn their fair share of streams on Spotify, there are few legends. Aaliyah was one in a million, the definition of a music legend, changing the face of the industry forever and leaving countless fans mourning the loss of her potential after her death at the age of 22.
Aaliyah’s legacy has lived on, with her followers creating art from her likeness and decrying their love of her everlasting bops. She has left behind not only a legion of listeners, but there have also been plenty of copycats when it comes to recreating her most famous beauty moments, solidifying her legend status.
After over 26,000 fans signed a petition asking M.A.C for a posthumous collection in Aaliyah’s honor, the brand finally decided to grant every makeup lover’s (who came up in the 90s) dreams. The only problem? The forthcoming M.A.C x Aaliyah collection doesn’t drop until summer 2018.
The wait has already been too long, so if you’re too impatient to take even more time to get your hands on the upcoming M.A.C collection, try putting your own spin on these different iconic Aaliyah looks before purchasing her namesake when it hits shelves.
Rock The Boat Music Video
Aaliyah served all of the tropical vibes in the beachy music video for chart-topper 'Rock The Boat' from her self-titled album. The look was all bright, cheerful peach-toned shadows, like Arena by M.A.C., and soft, natural brows (achievable with the Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Powder Duo).
Queen Of The Damned
No matter what season it is, get a head start on your Halloween ensemble with the help of Aaliyah’s fierce Queen Akasha makeup. Try using a Urban Decay’s classic Naked Smoky palette, particularly the black and steel shadows, for the ultimate vampy eye and if you’re bold enough to rock supernatural power brows, experiment with the Maybelline Brow Drama Pomade Crayon.
The 2000 VMAs
Aaliyah stunned at the 2000 Video Music Awards, rocking minimal, casual glam with a loud look. She didn't shy away from the subtle sexiness of a glossy lip, so take things to the next level with Over The Top lip gloss from Dose Of Colors’ popular Desi x Katy collection. Lengthen lashes with Maybelline’s Lash Sensational Waterproof Mascara, one of the best drugstore mascaras available.
Are You That Somebody Music Video
To answer that: yes, you are that somebody who can rock green eyeshadow even better than you did in middle school. Switch it up with green shadows courtesy of the emerald and turquoise hues in the Magic Palette from Juvia’s Place.
The 1998 Academy Awards
Though Aaliyah wasn’t scared of dewy lip gloss or plum sparkling shadows, she kept things matte and smooth with her complexion at the 1998 Academy Awards. Achieve a poreless, velvet finish with CoverGIrl’s Clean Matte Liquid Foundation and lock it in place with the MUA fave Laura Mercier Translucent Setting Powder, available in an improved shade range.
Try Again Music Video
You’ve probably already got the sequined bra and the giant, blinding choker ready, so it’s time for phase two. If at first you don’t succeed, try playing with the Doucce smoky-eye quad and taking it to the next level with a simple swipe of Stila’s Magnificent Metals Liquid Eye Shadow in Molten Midnight.
Event Appearance, 1995
Of course, Aaliyah’s power was in her talent and her eye-catching live looks only helped to emphasize her performances. She rocked ombre lips before Amber Rose or Kylie Jenner, and you can take a page from her book by applying layers of liner, lipstick and powder in your favorite shades from dark to light.
Never not iconic:
- A M.A.C. x Aaliyah Collection Is Coming
- Aaliyah Is Finally Getting a Tribute Fragrance
- The '90s Beauty Trends You Can Still Wear Now
