Just days after the Nicopanda show, it’s thrilling to report that Nicola Formichetti’s brand is launching a new collaborative collection with MAC Cosmetics. To be honest, I already suspected something was in the works backstage, as it was the first time the face chart descriptions were quickly whisked away. It seems the project was still top secret at the time.

Drawing inspiration from the grunge and rap culture of the 1990s, the youthful, eccentric collection features equally bold and playful makeup. This season, the team was led by Isamaya Ffrench, whose work has been highlighted here before. She’s no stranger to backstage creativity, and as always, she delivered extremely unique and extravagant looks.

To complement the makeup, glittery Planet I sunglasses made an appearance, which shouldn’t be a surprise to readers as I wrote about them a few months ago (for those who missed it, click here). These sunglasses paired perfectly with the models’ glittery lip colors.

It was a pleasure to see two Hungarian models included in the show. Adding a special twist to the experience, I was able to photograph backstage in London—something that isn’t allowed at Hungarian fashion weeks. Kinga sported dark purple hair, while Viktória wore a light blue wig.

The Concept Behind the Makeup

As with the previous season, diversity and individuality were the guiding principles for this collection. True to Nicopanda’s motto, “Be anything, just don’t be ordinary,” no two faces or models were alike. The team selected the most unique and unconventional personalities and tailored the makeup to match. Isamaya meticulously oversaw every detail, often revising her assistants’ work. For instance, I witnessed her have a lipstick wiped off and asked to be replaced right in front of me to better suit the vision and for a particular model.

Isamaya also worked on the visuals for the new MAC collaboration, she was the perfect fit to ensure the makeup concept aligned seamlessly with the campaign.

This isn’t Formichetti’s first collaboration with MAC. He previously worked with the brand as the stylist for Lady Gaga’s Viva Glam campaigns. Fans might also recognize his styling work in Gaga’s iconic music videos for Telephone, Born This Way, and Alejandro. During the backstage hustle, Formichetti himself calmly photographed the collection’s lookbook, demonstrating his hands-on approach. The campaign pictures photographed by Oliviero Toscani.

This collaboration brings something entirely new to MAC: uniquely shaped packaging that hasn’t been seen before. Panda enthusiasts and collectors alike are sure to treasure these one-of-a-kind items.

Check out the MAC Cosmetics website here and Nicopanda’s official page here.

Photos:  Gabriella Paradi / Paradi.Fashion- All Rights Reserved, MAC Cosmetics