In The Scenario, reporter Kirbie Johnson takes readers behind the scenes of the buzziest movies and TV shows to reveal how the best wigs, special effects makeup, and more are created. For this edition, Johnson spoke with the hair and makeup team from Bridgerton’s third season, who used intricately detailed makeup and hairstyling to tell Penelope Featherington’s love story.
Season 3 of Bridgerton is upon us, dear reader—emphasis on “ton,” as this author has a ton of hair and makeup details to share about the show. The highly anticipated romance between one Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlin) and Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton) comes to life this season, nearly two years since the show last aired. Part one has just been released with four titillating episodes (but between us, prepare yourselves for one of the most sizzling scenes in Bridgerton history when part two is released on June 13).
Penelope’s unrequited love for Colin has had viewers rooting for her, and they will be thrilled to see her take her power in this latest season. She certainly has a glow up for the ages, as does Colin. A stark change of from the childish curls and unflattering hairlines of Penelope’s past, this season’s look welcome shimmer, face gems, and more—modern makeup looks with a Bridgerton twist. Much like the orchestral arrangements of popular modern-day songs featured in the show, they work. “I feel in Bridgerton, it is beauty makeup,” Coughlin’s personal on-set makeup artist Jessie Deol says. “It’s not period in any way: it’s beauty. It’s high fashion.”
Ahead, Deol and Erika Okvist, the hair and makeup designer for season three, outline how Pen’s relationship with Colin—and Pen’s rise to power—is reflected through her beauty choices.
Pen’s Attempted Glow Up
You weren’t the only one who found Penelope’s old hairstyles unflattering—they were designed to be.Liam Daniel/Netflix
