Although today’s Lara Croft is portrayed with a much more realistic, almost makeup-free appearance, anyone who played the original Tomb Raider games (the first was released in 1996) will instantly remember the archaeologist’s unmistakable look. The Angelina Jolie films helped cement it in pop culture, although Jolie wore those unforgettable greige lips that I still dream about today, probably achieved with MAC’s Folio lipstick. Aside from Lara’s famously polygonal proportions, one feature stood out above everything else: her brown lipstick. Depending on the game, the shade ranged from rich and opaque to softer and sheerer, but it always complemented the character perfectly. The look was completed with a subtle line of black eyeliner applied to the waterline and softly blended beneath the lower lashes, creating a slightly grunge yet timeless effect. To recreate this Lara Croft makeup look, pair KIKO’s Smart Fusion Lip Pencil 36 with the Smart Fusion Lipstick 436. If, like Lara, you want your lipstick to survive long adventures without constant touch-ups, Veralab’s Kiss Code Liquid Lipstick in Spiced Brown is an excellent long-lasting alternative.
Ultimately, beyond their makeup looks, these heroines remain some of the most iconic characters in video game history. Their signature beauty styles continue to inspire gaming makeup, cosplay makeup, and everyday beauty enthusiasts alike, proving that sometimes the best makeup inspiration comes straight from the worlds we love to play.
