Jessie Roux’s Traitors makeup sparks a new bold-beauty trend

Jessie Roux, a contestant on the latest season of The Traitors, has drawn attention for bright, mismatched eyeshadow that is helping inspire a so-called “bold beauty” movement. The shades—often yellow and red—are described by Little Greene paint company with names such as Trumpet and Heat.

Roux has become a fan favourite for both her strategic observations on the show and her offbeat makeup. She said she “did wonder if I should tone it down” because she “didn't know if people would question whether I was being genuine,” and that, “because of my stammer, it can sometimes be hard to express myself, so it’s a comfort to have my bright makeup and clothes to show who I really am.” Roux says she experimented more with bright looks during lockdown and cites America’s Next Top Model, La Roux and hairdresser Sophia Hilton as inspirations.

On TikTok, users have been recreating her look with marigold orange, canary yellow and metallics, and videos use phrases such as “channelling their inner Jessie.” Makeup artist Aoife Cullen, who describes her own style as “futuristic, kind of alien-esque and kind of retro,” says Roux subverts beauty standards and isn’t afraid to wear looks others might deem unattractive.

Key Topics

Culture, Jessie Roux, The Traitors, Tiktok, Aoife Cullen, Little Greene