After several seasons where understated makeup reigned supreme, autumn 2026 promises to be bolder. The runways of New York, London, Milan, and Paris showcased expressive looks that still allow the skin to breathe. Plenty of inspiration to find new ways to have fun with your makeup, according to your mood.
The smoky eye is making a big comeback
This fall 2026, eyes are adorned with deep, subtly blended shades. Say goodbye to ultra-graphic lines: smoky eyes are blended for an intense yet more flexible and wearable result. Another variation is also captivating beauty enthusiasts: a deliberately blurred eyeliner effect, which lends a rock and relaxed vibe without striving for perfection. The goal isn't to achieve flawless, millimeter-perfect makeup, but to create a look full of character.
@lugamur Recreating Selena's iconic smokey eye 🖤 I forgot how good 2016 makeup was #smokeyeyes #selenagomez #2016makeup #fyp #lugamur ♬ The Heart Wants What It Wants - Selena Gomez
Blush is worn without any inhibitions
Blush is making a comeback in beauty routines. This time, it's no longer limited to a light touch on the cheekbones: it's being generously blended across the cheeks, and sometimes even up to the bridge of the nose, for a healthy glow inspired by naturally rosy cheeks. Creamy textures and shades of raspberry, plum, or pink dominate the trend. "Blush draping," which involves blending the color upwards towards the temples, also adds dimension to the face with a subtle touch. The result: a luminous and fresh complexion in just a few strokes.
@smv.ziobro blush blindness 🩷 #scandi #stockholm #glowyskin #makeup #lipsync ♬ devut - faith
The lips adopt deep shades
For the lips, rich colors like burgundy, plum, or shades close to oxblood are in. Unlike perfectly defined reds, the trend favors a blurred effect, as if the lips were delicately tinted. This softer finish offers an elegant and modern look, while also being easier to wear every day. A beautiful way to dare to wear dark shades without needing an ultra-precise outline.
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Radiant skin above all
If there's a common thread running through all these trends, it's the complexion. The runways confirmed the desire to maintain a luminous skin tone, with a light finish that allows its natural texture to show through. The idea is to emphasize a single makeup element—the eyes, cheeks, or lips—while keeping the rest more understated. This balance makes it easy to personalize these looks to suit your own style.
Finally, let's clarify that these trends are primarily suggestions for experimenting and having fun with makeup. There's no obligation to follow them, or even to wear makeup at all. Whether you love wearing a full face of makeup every day, prefer to wear it only occasionally, or simply feel good without makeup, all approaches are valid.
