AOFM Graduates Backstage at PDF SS2026: Real Skin, Raw Details, and Tattoo Artistry

The look for the PDF SS2026 collection focused on not over-perfecting the skin, keeping it real-looking and hydrated, while also adding subtle accents, such as tired eyes, slight bruises, and a hint of dirt. The primary focus was on adding facial, neck, arm, and hand tattoos.

To achieve this look, the skin was prepped using Dermalogica’s Ultra Calming Cleanser and Mist, Redness Relief Primer, and the Serum Drops mixed into Active Moist to really balance the skin.

Where needed, Dermalogica Mattifying Gel helped in the humid outdoor conditions, as the show was set in an outdoor prison-like set.

Instead of a full foundation, pinpoint concealing was used: blemishes and under-eyes were corrected individually, leaving the rest of the skin untouched.

To begin the tattoo application, a light dusting of translucent powder was applied to create grip for the adhesion.

Each model featured two to five tattoos, chosen individually by the lead artist. Placed on cheekbones, temples, necks, collarbones, wrists, and fingers—mirroring the silhouettes of the collection

The team then applied them strategically to complement facial symmetry and the model’s narrative/story in the show.

These were all hand-applied (using transfer paper and skin-safe adhesive). For longer wear, the team applied a generous layer of setting powder.