Wings of Style: Behind the Beauty of Sky Swallows 2025 Winner
Viktoriia Shevchuk, winner of the Sky Swallows Contest 2025 in the Oriental Skyline Look category, captivated the judges with her flawless Eastern eye line and signature flight attendant style. In this interview, Viktoriia shares the inspiration behind her winning look, the artistry involved, and her personal approach to beauty and style.
*Sky Swallows Contest – a prestigious award since 2016 in fashion, aviation, lifestyle, and beauty.
How did your signature technique for creating the Oriental eye line originate?
Viktoriia Shevchuk: “My ‘Oriental Skyline Look’ technique was born from the desire to combine refined Eastern aesthetics with modern standards of flight attendant makeup. I studied traditional eyeliner styles from Japanese, Korean, and Arabic cultures, adapting them to the strict requirements of the aviation industry. The result is a technique where each line resembles a horizon silhouette—soft yet precise, perfectly symmetrical, and long-lasting throughout the flight.”
Eyeliner and lashes that create the magic of the gaze
Which types of eyeliner and lashes do you use in your work?
“For different looks, I use several eyeliner techniques—from the classic cat-eye with a gentle lift to the fox-eye, which elongates the eye and adds mystery. For lashes, I prefer a combined approach: clusters of varying lengths for a natural yet expressive effect. Sometimes I add ultra-thin strip lashes with a transparent base so the eyes remain flawless even up close.”
Which products or brands do you consider the best for creating the perfect makeup?
“Products and brands are my allies. There are no random items in my makeup kit. Eyeliners from Shu Uemura, KVD Beauty, and MAC Pro Longwear provide perfect staying power. For mascara, I choose Lancôme Hypnôse or Benefit BADgal Bang!—they add volume without weighing down lashes. The base is always a trusted foundation: Dior Backstage Face & Body or Armani Luminous Silk, which keep the ‘fresh skin’ effect even under challenging flight conditions.
Most importantly, I developed my own brand of cluster lashes, VS Beauty, specifically for the Oriental Skyline Look. These lashes are designed not only to enhance the expressiveness of the eyes but also to correct or emphasize their natural shape. Their construction achieves perfect harmony with the overall makeup architecture.”
Do you have favorite style icons who inspire your makeup creations?
“My inspiration comes from women whose elegance meets character. Grace Kelly embodies aristocracy, Audrey Hepburn symbolizes timeless minimalism. Among modern icons, makeup artist and blogger Pony (Pony Park) inspires me with bold experiments in form and color.”
Do you consider flight attendant makeup part of the uniform or a form of self-expression?
“For me, flight attendant makeup is part of the uniform, an element of corporate aesthetics. It acts like a company’s business card. For example, Air Astana strictly regulates the makeup of its crew, and this visual code has become part of the brand style. Makeup doesn’t just enhance beauty—it supports the company image and sets the tone for service.”
Can you share skincare tips for air travelers to keep their skin hydrated and fresh during long flights?
“Dry cabin air is the main enemy of glowing skin. My routine is simple but effective:
- One hour before flight: hyaluronic acid serum and antioxidant cream.
- During the flight: thermal water spray and nourishing lip balm.
- After landing: gentle cleansing, calming mask, and peptide-rich night cream.
This keeps the skin hydrated and fresh, even after long-haul flights.
