When I'm not waxing poetic about my favourite cruelty-free lipsticks [1], posting swatches of new beauty launches on Instagram, or finding ways to organise my massive makeup collection [2], I'm sitting on my bed, binging Netflix shows.
I watch almost every new original series that the streaming service comes out with, and have become enamored with many of the shows not only for the plot lines, but for the serious beauty inspiration I gather from my hours-long watching sessions. From the '80s-style teased hair of Glow to the incredibly creative DIY [3] self-care methods in Orange Is the New Black [4], these shows will appeal to any beauty and are good enough to watch in one sitting.
If you're into DIY beauty . . .
Orange is The New Black [5]
One of the most interesting parts of Orange is the New Black [6] is how it explores beauty culture within Litchfield. Despite being incarcerated, these women still take pride in their appearance and find creative ways to curl their hair, wear lipstick, and visit the beauty salon.
Lorna Morello is definitely one of the most devoted beauty lovers in the group, and even takes the time to style her hair with makeshift curlers made from paper towels. Many of the inmates get pampered by Sophia in the beauty salon and several members of the cast have iconic looks involving bold eyeliner or red lipstick.
If you miss makeover shows . . .
Queer Eye [7]
In the '90s and early 2000s, makeover shows were everywhere. These reality shows were highly addictive, but not always made in the nicest way. With the Queer Eye reboot, makeover shows get a redesign that focuses on self confidence and feel-good vibes.
Beauty lovers still get the transformation they desire — without any of the hosts insulting the "before" image of the makeover subject. Queer Eye is a great example of how grooming can improve someone's confidence and allow them to accomplish their dreams. Plus, you'll always feel great after watching an episode.
If you need some glam inspiration . . .
The Get Down
It's a huge bummer that The Get Down was cancelled, but the 11 existing episodes are definitely worth a watch. Baz Luhrmann's tribute to the hip-hop and disco music of the '70s is full of big hair, dramatic fashion, and incredible makeup.
While most of the show centres around the teenage men participating in the hip-hop scene in the Bronx, the disco side of the show will make beauty girls drool. Herizen F. Guardiola stars as Mylene Cruz, a girl bent on becoming a Donna Summers-style disco queen. She sneaks out with her best friends to get her songs played, and gives us the best going-out-look inspiration we could ever ask for.
If you're dreading your next birthday . . .
Grace and Frankie
Grace and Frankie is worth a watch, not just to have Jane Fonda and Lilly Tomlin make your stomach hurt from laughing so hard, but for the serious conversations about ageism in the beauty industry, dating, and even sex toys.
One of my favourite parts of this show is watching Fonda's character Grace get ready for dates, carefully putting in hair extensions and applying makeup, and Lily Tomlin's character Frankie taking a more holistic approach to self-care.
If you live for a dramatic smokey eye . . .
Glow
It's almost impossible not to be entertained by the women's wresting show Glow. Not only does it have a stellar cast, but the insane wresting personas, complete with '80s hair and dramatic makeup, might convince you to try teal lipstick.