Although they are separated by time and culture, it’s amusing to see how Lady Gaga, the American pop icon, and Alla Pugacheva, the Russian stage legend, sometimes converge on the daring ground of makeup. Yes, you read that right, Alla Pugacheva, the same one who now divides her time between Instagram and exile in Israel (apparently, even Russian pop tsars have opinions about war, and husbands who are considered “special agents” by some). Comparing Lady Gaga’s “Die with a smile” music video and Alla’s performances of her song “Все могут короли” (Vse mogut koroli, “Kings Can Do Anything”) reveals some surprising parallels.
Lady Gaga and Punk Futurism:
In “Die with a smile,” Lady Gaga sports an avant-garde look reminiscent of punk aesthetics. Her complexion is pale, almost ghostly, contrasting with her heavily lined eyes, elongated towards the temples. Intense black covers the entire eyelid, creating a deep and dramatic gaze. A nude, almost invisible, lipstick completes the look, emphasizing the intensity of her eyes.
Alla Pugacheva and Soviet Glamour (with a Touch of Rebellion):
During the “Все могут короли” era, Alla embodied Soviet glamour with a rebellious twist. Imagine: oversized shoulder pads, improbable hairstyles, and makeup that screamed, “I’m the queen, even the Party can’t touch me!” Her complexion was always flawless and luminous (the miracles of Soviet makeup?), providing the base for smoky eyes, often in shades of blue or violet, very popular at the time. Her lips were accentuated by a bright lipstick, a symbol of femininity and power, defying the codes of an austere society.
Audacity as a Legacy: Despite their different musical styles and eras (and slightly complex geopolitical situations), Lady Gaga and Alla Pugacheva share a taste for intense and dramatic eye makeup. Both artists use makeup to create a strong and assertive stage persona. They share a pronounced taste for bold makeup that underlines their extraordinary artistic personalities. Makeup becomes a powerful tool, allowing them to transcend borders, defy political regimes, and touch their audience through emotion and daring.
Source: Instagram and Youtube @ladygaga , @alla_orfey, www.discogs.com
