The “Wind-Swept” Blush: How Wuthering Heights is Inspiring a New Makeup Trend
Emerald Fennell’s recent cinematic reimagining of Wuthering Heights has certainly sparked conversation, and while the film’s overall impact might still be debated, one element has undeniably captured attention: Margot Robbie’s stunningly flushed complexion. Portraying Cathy, a woman consumed by a passionate and obsessive connection with her childhood companion Heathcliff, Robbie sports a perpetually rosy glow. This look masterfully conjures the biting winds of the English moors while simultaneously reflecting the intense heat of her character’s tumultuous emotions, particularly those ignited by Heathcliff, played by Jacob Elordi.
Emily Brontë herself, writing in the late 1800s, eloquently described the transformative power of dreams, noting how they “have stayed with me ever after, and changed my ideas; they have gone through and through me, like wine through water, and altered the color of my mind.” This sentiment seems to echo in the visual language of the film’s makeup, where a simple blush becomes a profound statement.
While makeup artist Siân Miller reportedly drew inspiration from the “pomegranate girl” trend popular on TikTok for Robbie’s blush, the final result perfectly embodies Catherine Linton’s raw, heartfelt yearning. The translucent red hue blooms on the skin, appearing as if kissed by a sheen of sweat, lending a look that could be interpreted as both post-coital and simply wind-swept – a subtle disagreement on intent, perhaps, but a shared admiration for the effect. Whether attributed to harsh elements or years of simmering sexual tension, Cathy’s radiant flush is a universally appealing makeup moment. As red is the colour of blood, a red blush naturally complements any skin tone, appearing remarkably authentic. It’s a versatile look, capable of suggesting anything from a passionate encounter on the moors to the invigorating glow after a brisk outdoor excursion. Ultimately, who’s to say what truly lies beneath the surface?
The ELLE Edit: Just Flushed
RARE BEAUTY
Soft Pinch Liquid Blush
$45 sephora
CHANEL
N.1 De Chanel Lip And Cheek Balm
$81 david jones
MERIT
Flush Balm Cream Blush
$48 merit
Burts Bees
Tinted Lip Balm
$12.47 activeskin
Achieving the “Wind-Swept” Look at Home
To recreate this coveted “wind-swept” aesthetic, think about how your cheeks naturally flush after physical exertion or, well, other vigorous activities. A quick dive into “boy blush” tutorials on TikTok offers excellent guidance. Many creators recommend a slightly lower placement of blush on the cheeks to achieve a more natural, “lived-in” appearance, as opposed to a more sculpted or elevated application.
Fortunately, Siân Miller has shared some of the key products from her kit, and they are remarkably accessible. The secret to this look lies in layering different textures to achieve a finish that is both pigmented and possesses a dewy, glossy quality. Miller strategically employed a combination of cream blushes to capture the nuanced variations of a natural flush:
- Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush: Used in shades “Hope” (a cool mauve) and “Happy” (a soft pink).
- Merit Flush Balm: Applied in “Après” (a berry shade) and “Postmodern” (a deep pink).
- N.1 de Chanel Lip and Cheek Balm: A sheer red wash was used to unify the colours and impart a translucent sheen that mimics the appearance of real skin.
For Isabella, portrayed by Alicia Oliver, who embodies a more innocent character, Miller opted for a softer, more matte finish. This was achieved using the Kylie Cosmetics Hybrid Blush in the shade “Winter Kissed.”
The lip component of the look is refreshingly simple and budget-friendly. Eschewing complex lipsticks, glazes, or oils, Cathy’s on-screen appearance is completed with Burt’s Bees Lip Balm in “Rose.” This offers a sheer wash of colour and essential hydration, creating a look that feels perfectly authentic to the rugged moorland setting.
This distinctive “wind-beaten” blush trend, brought to the forefront by the evocative imagery of Wuthering Heights, is proving to be a significant influence in the beauty world.
