makeup, skin

Expert-approved beauty trick for women 55+ that transforms your daily routine

Makeup and beauty routines evolve with time, and for women over 55, the goal is to highlight natural radiance, not hide it. Experts agree that transforming your daily routine doesn’t require a full makeup overhaul — just one simple adjustment that preps your skin for a flawless, glowing finish.

Many women in their 50s and beyond are rediscovering the joy of makeup, trading heavy layers for a softer, luminous look. But before diving into new colors or products, makeup artists insist there’s one game-changing step that ensures your look stays fresh and seamless all day long.

What’s the expert-approved beauty trick for women 55+?

According to top makeup artists, the real secret is making primer an essential part of your routine. Often overlooked, this lightweight product sits between skincare and makeup, creating a smooth, radiant base that instantly enhances your skin’s texture.

Applied after your moisturizer but before foundation, primer adds hydration, glow, and staying power to your look. Makeup artist Laura Geller suggests combining a luminizing primer with a foundation that has a hint of pearl to help blur dark spots and even out tone. Meanwhile, Gita Bass highlights that a hydrating primer prevents foundation from settling into fine lines — a must for mature skin.

To get the most out of it, apply a small amount evenly across your face and let it set for about a minute before adding foundation or concealer. This simple step ensures smoother application and a natural, skin-like finish. Think of it as your shortcut to a radiant glow with minimal effort.

If you’re looking for reliable, affordable options, try Milani Illuminating Face Primer, e.l.f. Illuminating Face Primer, L’Oréal True Match Lumi Glotion, or Laura Geller Spackle Perfecting Primer — all designed to hydrate and brighten while keeping your makeup fresh throughout the day.

More expert-approved beauty tips to elevate your routine

Beyond primer, these professional tips can completely refresh your beauty routine:

  • Start with a serum. Before primer, apply a vitamin C serum to boost glow and fade dullness, reducing the need for heavy foundation.
  • Choose luminous foundation. Go for glow-enhancing bases like Ilia Super Serum Skin Tint or L’Oréal Infallible Pro-Glow and use concealer only where needed.
  • Try brown eyeliner. For soft definition, replace black with brown and smudge gently for a natural look.
  • Add shimmer, not glitter. A touch of shimmer on the eyelids lifts and brightens mature eyes.
  • Define brows with tinted gel. A brow gel fills sparse areas and tames unruly hairs for a polished finish.
  • Warm up with bronzer. Cream or powder bronzers bring warmth and a healthy glow when applied high on the cheekbones.
  • Hydrate your lips. Swap matte formulas for tinted lip oils or stains for color and comfort.
  • Keep tones consistent. Match warm or cool shades across eyes, cheeks, and lips for a balanced, harmonious look.

Each of these expert-approved steps focuses on enhancing glow, smoothness, and natural beauty — the key to a confident, modern look at any age.

Great makeup starts with great prep. Adding primer to your beauty routine is the simplest way to bring back radiance and redefine your glow.

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9 Winter 2026 Makeup Trends, According To Top Experts

9 Winter 2026 Makeup Trends, According To Top Experts

Winter is here, and according to Hollywood’s most in-demand glam Avengers, it’s bringing plenty of makeup inspo. This season, trends read like a blend of bold throwbacks from every decade — mostly ’60s, ’90s, or 2000s, depending on which pro you ask — with something undeniably modern layered on top.

Warm berry lips have edged out classic reds, while cool-toned blushes (yes, even beige ones) are suddenly everywhere. Skin is either glazed in all the right places or softly matte, while eyeshadows are split between smudged ’90s grunge and frosted Y2K shimmer.

But, across the board, one thing is for certain: Winter glam isn’t one-size-fits-all, and red lips aren’t the only way to make a statement this season. You can lean into babydoll pink blushes, maroon smoky eyes, vampy matte lips, doll-like lashes, or a monochrome wash of warm glossy tones — and it all feels current. Whether you’re drawn to Jenna Ortega–style gothic glaze, Hailey Bieber’s “I’m cold” flush, or Kylie Jenner’s porcelain babydoll moment, there’s a winter look waiting for you in this lineup of expert-approved trends.

The only problem? Your makeup bag is about to get very busy.

1. Warm, Rosy, And Glowing

Want to know what celebrities like Kris Jenner, Alix Earle, and Lindsay Lohan will be channeling with their glam this winter? Just ask Ash K Holm, the MUA who’s bringing all things “warm, rosy, and glowing” to your favorite A-lister. She’s pairing hydrating foundations with velvety matte blushes for a soft-focus finish, but her top makeup trick this season? “A pearly gold eyeliner along the waterline instantly wakes up your eyes and makes a smoky eye really pop.” Don’t forget a classic red lip — the cherry on top of her cozy, classic winter vibe.

2. Falsies & A Bold Lip

Cardi B’s makeup artist is pouring a strong cup of drama this winter. “I think 2026 makeup will have more bold looks,” Erika La’Pearl says. In true ’90s revival spirit, her favorite shades are “plum wine or spiced rose,” paired with glowing skin to keep everything modern. But the real star? “Adding false lashes always helps bring a look together,” she says. “Personally, I love using i-ENVY Classic Timeless Wispy Strip Lashes and Cluster Palette Kit (Underlash Extensions) on my clients and myself.”

3. Y2K “Snow Bunny” Makeup

Meanwhile, makeup artist Emily Gray is rooting for a frosty comeback. “I see a throwback to the Y2K frost,” she says. “But it might be my millennial heart hoping.” Shimmery pastel lips and bright white shimmer are officially on her wish list, with a touch of Victoria’s Secret Angel. It’s “bunny makeup” in the best way — a pink and white dream. But beneath all that glimmer on the lips and lids is a shift toward what she calls “a luminous matte” base, something that leans more classic winter glam than early 2000s throwback — the finish of choice for her client, Maren Morris.

4. Monochrome Moments

Winter makeup is getting the Mary Phillips treatment, and spoiler alert: it’s softly sculpted. The architect behind Hollywood’s favorite underpainting technique says the season is all about a believable “I’m cold” sweep of color — rosy cheeks and skin that looks warm and dimensional without trying too hard. And for lips? “Either a classic red moment or something deeper — rich berries and oxbloods that feel moody and luxurious,” she tells Bustle. For a chic monochrome moment, she suggests swiping your m.ph Lip Ciggy on the cheeks (shades Cherry Pie and Lose My Breath are her go-tos right now). “It gives that seamless, pulled-together look that feels effortless but intentional,” and the overall vibe this winter will be exactly that. Not full glam — just polished and “a little sexy.”

5. The Classics — With A Twist

Clearly, traditional winter glam isn’t going anywhere. Melissa Hernandez — whose celebrity client roster includes Sydney Sweeney, Olivia Rodrigo, and Mikey Madison — can’t get enough. “Between the family gatherings, cozy dinners, and holiday parties, there’s something so timeless about a crisp red lip or a touch of sparkle on the eyes,” she says. But there are ways to make it feel playful and unexpected. Hernandez, for example, is swapping out a true crimson pout or lid for maroon — just look at the smoky shadow she did for Sydney Sweeney. “There’s something about it that feels festive but still a little sultry,” she adds.

6. Moody ’90s Glam

If you thought the ’90s revival was slowing down, Mélanie Inglessis is here to say: absolutely not. The French makeup artist behind Jenna Ortega’s broody glam is predicting a winter that is “a continuation of the moody, ’90s theme,” with some unexpected colors and finishes. Think muted blues and desert pinks melting into darker eyeshadows, gray-toned contour (yes, gray) instead of browns, and “glazed skin with a gothic eye.” But the biggest ode to ’90s makeup this season? Inglessis is calling it now — “matte dark lips” are about to be everywhere.

7. A Capsule “Makeup Wardrobe”

You can thank Cherish Brooke Hill for Madison Beer’s recent makeup looks that have been quietly defining the toasty winter aesthetic. Hill is approaching glam this season as “elevated and quietly confident — it’s not about excess or perfection.” She’s been all about building a curated “makeup wardrobe,” as she calls it, full of warm tones that tell a story. Peach blushes are giving way to mulberries and roses; nude lips have melted into mocha or wine; and beige eyeshadows are turning into warm taupes or metallic brows. The overall effect? A lived-in look that never veers messy or costumey — though she’s been into the ’60s lashes that look “a little doll-like, yet still soft.”

8. Cheeks Take Center Stage

Ciele founder and celebrity makeup artist Nikki DeRoest wants you to know: this winter is all about the blush. It’s lifted, it’s sculpted, it’s draped — and yes, beige cheeks are about to become your new obsession. Her flush & Protect SPF 45+ in Cozy delivers that cool-toned, editorial blush she sees taking over in 2026. Another swap she’s making in her makeup routine this winter? “Trade your full-coverage foundation for something lighter and more breathable,” she shares. “Heavy foundation can look flat or heavy in winter lighting.” It’s effortless and, most importantly, looks alive — an absolute must this time of year.

9. Babydoll Energy

If you’ve seen Kylie Jenner’s makeup recently, you know that her MUA Ariel Tejada is obsessed with “babydoll energy” this winter. “I think more than ever, everyone is concerned with looking youthful,” he says. “Think soft rosy cheeks with porcelain skin.” His favorite pink blushes are cool-toned, because they bring that “youthful icy feel” to the look — paired with strategic glazing on a matte base. “We want to glow in the right places,” he adds. “Not look like a disco ball.” Eyes stay neutral with a flirty touch of frosting in the inner corners, and lips go glossy to keep everything fresh and modern. In other words: don’t expect a full matte lip from King Kylie anytime soon.

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Here's how to do a full eye look when you only have five minutes

Here’s how to do a full eye look when you only have five minutes

Whether you’re easing into eye makeup or can sculpt and shade with confidence, a quick eye makeup routine brings welcome clarity to a day filled with deadlines and endless to-dos. A few well-placed strokes can streamline rushed mornings and make those spontaneous evenings feel just about manageable.

Vogue’s quick eye makeup essentials

There was a time in the 2010s when I was obsessed with watching lengthy step-by-step makeup routines on YouTube. Back then, thick eye primer, a dramatic cut crease and a razor-sharp cat eye was my signature.

These days, though, I gravitate toward something simpler. A flick of a wing with the same pen I use to fill in my brows, sticking to the outer corners only to avoid smudging on my hooded eyes. Other days, I skip eyeliner altogether and swipe just a single wash of colour across my lids (a bronzer, blush or a brown eyeshadow stick, depending on what’s closest). A coat of tubing mascara helps open the eyes and I’m done. I’m much more focused on lip liner for a pouty finish, rosy cheeks and a fluffy brow. Simple, effortless and just polished enough.

So what’s the trick to refining your eye look? “Cutting down on the number of products you use is key to achieving a faster look,” pro makeup artist Anastasia Vavina previously told Vogue. Remember: a little product goes a long way, especially when time (and patience) is short. Ahead, discover four key tricks to achieving an eye makeup look in five minutes flat.

Stick to a single colour eyeshadow

For your own good, put down the 16-pan eyeshadow palette. Instead, opt for a single eyeshadow for a polished look with zero effort. “There is something so striking about a single colour wash all over the lid,” celebrity makeup artist Jo Baker previously said. “It’s timeless, elegant and ageless and it requires minimal skills to execute, making it a perfect look year-round.”

There are plenty of ways to achieve this simple eye look. “For a quick eye look, cream shadows are your best friend. They blend out beautifully and look like you did more than you actually did,” pro makeup artist Kasey Spickard says.

Opt for multipurpose products

Professional makeup artist El DeBratto knows all about maximising time by minimising the number of products used, in an effort to streamline their routine before early morning shoots. “I’m a huge proponent of finding products you can ‘break the rules’ with and apply to multiple areas of the face, which helps with the overall look of makeup cohesion,” they said. When curating a five-minute routine, Vavina suggests taking a “one-and-done” approach by using the same colour across cheeks, eyes and even lips for a natural, unified flush. Basically, ditch your eyeshadow and use a single-colour cream stick instead. Tap with fingers, blend lightly and your makeup looks cohesive without ever looking overdone.

Swipe on a statement liner

One swipe of eyeliner instantly transforms: the graphic winged eyeliner of the mod era, the moody smudges of ’90s grunge or whisper-thin strokes on the lash line for a minimalist touch. With just a pencil, gel or liquid pen, you can go barely-there or full drama. Eyeliners come in every texture and finish imaginable, from classic kohl that melts on contact to razor-sharp liquids built for precision. The possibilities are endless. “To take an easy eye look up a notch, I like to take an eyeliner in the same colour family but a shade deeper of whatever eyeshadow you use,” says Spickard. “Bring your liner along the the upper and lower lash lines and buff out with your finger or a small pencil brush.”

Bat your lashes big-time

When in doubt, mascara is the simplest route to any easy eye makeup look. Never underestimate what a quick lash curl and a few strategic swipes can do. “Curling your lashes will make you look instantly more awake,” per DeBratto. “I like to curl my lashes to the gods, squeezing the curler from the base of the lashes to the tip to ensure that I get an even bend throughout the lash. Then I’ll opt for my favourite tubing mascara to hold it all together.” The effect is eye-defining, effortless and done in under 30 seconds.

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Laura Geller, makeup, tips

The 3 makeup tips from Laura Geller that make women over 60 look younger

Makeup artist and beauty founder Laura Geller has spent decades creating products for women. Now 68, she has become a trusted voice for women over 60 who want to look fresh, glowing, and confident without covering up who they are.

In a recent conversation with Prevention, Geller shared her top makeup strategies for mature skin. Let’s break down the three makeup habits she says make the biggest difference for women in their 60s and beyond.

Laura Geller’s makeup advice for senior ladies

Geller believes makeup should enhance your features, not hide them. Skin changes with age—texture, tone, and elasticity all shift—so the techniques that worked in your 30s might not flatter you the same way today. That doesn’t mean giving up your favorite products, just adjusting your routine to meet your skin where it is now.

1. Address what your skin needs first

For Geller, skincare and makeup are inseparable. One of the most common mistakes women over 60 make is using drying powders. As skin becomes thinner and loses natural moisture, powder formulas can emphasize texture and fine lines.

Instead, she recommends switching to hydrating, glow-enhancing products. A moisturizing primer helps smooth and plump the skin before makeup, while a creamy or liquid foundation adds a fresh, youthful finish. The key is hydration—think foundations that feel like skincare. “If you’re dehydrated, you have to wear a super hydrating foundation”, Geller explains. “You have to use things that give your skin a glow”.

2. Don’t be afraid of color

As we age, we lose pigment in our skin, lips, and cheeks. That’s why Geller encourages women over 60 to bring color back into their routine. “A lot of women are afraid to put color on, but we lose melanin in our skin. We lose pigment”, she says. Soft mauves, pinks, and rose tones can instantly add life and warmth to the face.

You don’t need a full face of makeup—just a bit of blush, a tinted balm, or a creamy cheek tint can add that natural flush without sitting heavily on the skin. Color, Geller says, allows you to look more awake and alive.

3. Define the eyes the right way

Eye definition is another area where many women over 60 go too light. Hooded lids and softer facial contours can make the eyes appear smaller, so Geller swears by what she calls the “Three E’s”: eyebrow, eye line, and eyelash. Together, they add shape and lift to the face.

“That’s when you need eyeliner the most”, she explains. A soft gel liner, a lengthening mascara, and a brow pencil can reshape the eyes naturally without heavy makeup that sets into lines. For lips, a simple liner can also create more structure and polish.

Laura Geller’s philosophy is realistic: don’t think of makeup as something to hide your age, but as a way to celebrate it with confidence. For women over 60, that means keeping things light, hydrated, and full of warmth. A little color, a defined eye, and healthy-looking skin are often all you need to look—and feel—great.

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Το "Mistletoe" makeup trend θα σας χαρίσει τα πιο ρομαντικά μακιγιάζ των γιορτών

Το “Mistletoe” makeup trend θα σας χαρίσει τα πιο ρομαντικά μακιγιάζ των γιορτών

Το “Mistletoe” makeup trend συνδυάζει μερικές από τις μεγαλύτερες τάσεις στο μακιγιάζ της χρονιάς, πασπαλισμένες με λίγη… γιορτινή χρυσόσκονη. «Μπλέκει» την αθωότητα με τη flirty διάθεση των γιορτινών πάρτυ σε ένα άκρως ρομαντικό makeup look όπου η έμφαση δίνεται στα χείλη και τα μάγουλα, τα οποία είναι βαμμένα με αποχρώσεις του ροζ και του κόκκινου κι έχουν ένα απαλό, «θολό» εφέ.

Εφόσον όλη η προσοχή δίνεται στα μάτια και τα χείλη, το μακιγιάζ των ματιών είναι πολύ διακριτικό. Αυτό σημαίνει πως μπορείτε να κάνετε skip στη μάσκαρα υιοθετώντας έτσι ταυτόχρονα και το no-mascara trend. Επίσης, αφήστε στην άκρη και το eyeliner και αρκεστείτε απλώς σε μια σκιά ματιών σε «παγωμένη» απόχρωση και με shimmer, την οποία θα απλώσετε σε όλο το κινητό βλέφαρο. Εμπνευστείτε από το μακιγιάζ που έκανε πέρυσι η Addison Rae στο iHeartRadio Jingle Ball -το makeup look της περιλάμβανε φυσική επιδερμίδα, καθόλου μάσκαρα, έντονο ρουζ και κόκκινα χείλη. Επίσης, η Hailey Bieber υιοθέτησε την τάση στο περυσινό holiday party της εταιρείας της, Rhode, και μπορεί να αποτελέσει ακόμη ένα reference σας για αυτό το μακιγιάζ.

Το καλό με το “Mistletoe” makeup είναι ότι εκτός από ρομαντικό, λιτό και όμορφο είναι ότι δε χρειάζεται πολύ χρόνο για να γίνει, οπότε εάν έχετε μόνο 20 λεπτά στη διάθεσή σας για να βαφτείτε, αυτή είναι μια τέλεια επιλογή. Όσον αφορά τη βάση, εφαρμόστε μια ενυδατική με χρώμα και λίγο concealer τοπικά στα σημεία που το χρειάζεστε. Φιξάρετε τη βάση με setting powder στη ζώνη Τ, για να κρατήσετε υπό έλεγχο τη λιπαρότητα κατά τη διάρκεια της μέρας.

Το ρουζ είναι ο πρωταγωνιστής του συγκεκριμένου μακιγιάζ. Προτιμήστε αποχρώσεις που μιμούνται το φυσικό αναψοκοκκίνισμα που αποκτάνε τα μάγουλά όταν ντρέπεστε, όπως ένα θερμό κόκκινο κι ένα baby pink. Εφαρμόστε το στα μήλα του προσώπου σας και αν θέλετε μπορείτε να το φέρετε και πιο πάνω, στα ζυγωματικά. Αν δεν έχετε τέτοιο τόνο ρουζ, μπορείτε απλώς να πάρετε ένα κόκκινο ή ροζ κραγιόν και να βάλετε λίγο από αυτό στα μάγουλά σας -θα πρέπει όμως να το μπλεντάρετε πολύ καλά με τα δάχτυλά σας.

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makeup

The best age-defying makeup tip from a 50+ influencer that keeps skin glowing

Aging gracefully doesn’t mean giving up on beauty—it means redefining it. For many women over 50, the focus shifts from covering up to enhancing what already shines through. Finding makeup and skincare habits that truly lift and brighten can make all the difference, and one 50+ influencer has revealed the age-defying tip she swears by.

Over time, beauty routines evolve, and the goal becomes more about balance and authenticity than perfection. That’s exactly the message shared by a group of mature influencers who are redefining what beauty after 50 looks like. Among them, Gillianne Fuller stands out for her timeless advice that proves radiance isn’t about fighting age—it’s about nurturing it.

What’s the age-defying makeup tip women over 50 swear by?

According to Fuller, the most powerful beauty secret is also the simplest one: stay hydrated. She insists that drinking plenty of water not only boosts energy but also transforms how your skin looks and feels. “Hydration shows up in your skin, in your energy, and in how you carry yourself,” she told New Beauty, noting that avoiding soda and drinking water daily has kept her complexion fresh and luminous.

It’s not just about quenching thirst—it’s a foundation for beauty. Fuller believes hydration gives skin its natural glow and firmness, helping makeup blend seamlessly and preventing dryness that can highlight fine lines. Her philosophy? Take care of your skin from the inside out, and the results will follow.

Keep your beauty routine simple and intentional

Fuller’s approach to skincare is refreshingly minimalist. “Keep it simple,” she says. Instead of chasing every new trend, she sticks to what works. She credits her mother and grandmother for teaching her that less is more, noting that their natural, consistent routines kept their skin beautiful through the years.

Her advice aligns with a broader message shared by other influencers: mindful simplicity beats overcomplication. Mature beauty influencer Kat James stresses the importance of being conscious about what goes on your skin. After eliminating harsh ingredients from her routine, she noticed visible improvements in both her skin and overall health.

Don’t forget sunscreen—and balance

Lori Altermann adds a practical yet vital reminder: never skip sunscreen, even indoors. “If plants can get sun inside a house, so can your skin,” she jokes, noting that daily SPF is non-negotiable. She also emphasizes maintaining a healthy weight that works for your body, pointing out that extremely thin faces can look older. When that happens, makeup can be a subtle tool to restore softness and fullness.

For Fuller, though, beauty goes beyond appearances. She rarely wears makeup unless it’s for a special occasion, preferring to let her skin “breathe and hydrate.” Her secret to feeling beautiful? Being at peace with her face as it is and caring for it with intention.

In the end, these over-50 influencers share a unified message: beauty doesn’t fade—it evolves. Whether it’s staying hydrated, protecting your skin, or simplifying your routine, every tip points toward the same truth—radiance comes from taking care of yourself in ways that feel natural and empowering.

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The biggest party makeup trends for winter 2025, according to pro MUAs

The biggest party makeup trends for winter 2025, according to pro MUAs

From dark, moody lips to metallic textures, these are the makeup trends your clients will fall in love with this party season

The festive period is one of the busiest times of the year for professional makeup artists. Whether you’re perfecting looks for winter weddings, office parties, or New Year’s Eve celebrations, staying ahead of the season’s biggest trends is key. We spoke to top MUAs and educators to uncover the party-ready makeup trends clients will be requesting most in 2025 – with expert tips for long-lasting, camera-ready finishes.

The top party makeup trends to watch in 2025…

Burgundy and chocolate makeup: The new festive glam

While gold glitters and shimmers are always a popular choice when it comes to parties and special events, Anushka Patel, a makeup artist with over 15 years’ experience and the head of makeup brand Et Al, believes the tide is about to turn.

“I’m loving the resurgence of burgundy and chocolate tones in fashion this season, and it’s exciting to see that richness reflected in makeup trends as well,” she notes.

“These warm hues translate beautifully across eyes, cheeks, and lips, offering versatility that works from day to night.”

This shift towards deeper, moodier colours is a refreshing departure from looks centred around a bold red lip, which can often feel predictable when it comes to festive makeup.

“Berry, plum and wine tones offer a more luxe finish,” observes Xiao Chen, education manager at Morphe.

The key to mastering this look relies on a reliable lip liner; matte finishes and staining formulations offer durability that will help your client’s makeup last all night.

Toasted glamour makeup: Rich tones meet high-impact definition

Nadia Fihema, director of global education at Huda Beauty, also believes that runway trends will be reflected in makeup, forecasting a fusion of ‘toasted glamour’ with ‘high-impact glam’.

What does this look like? “Toasted glamour leans into rich amber tones, soft diffused bronze lids, and that subtle, candlelit warmth that feels polished and luxe,” she explains.

“Meanwhile, the high-impact glam introduces sharper definition – so sculpted cheekbones, and deeper, more dimensional eye or lip moments that elevate the look. Together, they create a finish that is radiant and powerful.”

Luminous skin: Clean girl meets winter glow

The ‘clean girl’ and ‘glass skin’ trends have been dominating the beauty landscape for some time now, and for clients that favour this more minimal approach to makeup, luminous skin is the perfect look for them.

“Think radiant, glass-like finishes, lightweight foundations, soft diffused bronzing, and fresh blush tones that enhance natural texture for an effortlessly luxurious glow,” says Maddy Essex, senior brand educator for Jane Iredale.

Carly Utting, senior artist for Mac Cosmetics UK & Ireland, seconds this, noting that more clients are asking for “real” skin, ditching the heavy, powdery appearances as of late. “Juicy buttery skin is achieved by prepping the skin with a hydrating serum which will leave the skin nourished and ready for your chosen base,” she explains.

Wearable metallic makeup for parties

Metallic and chrome textures are back in a big way, according to Utting. “But this doesn’t have to mean bold or overly technical looks,” she clarifies.

“People are wanting to make a statement in the simplest of ways. This could be a wash of multi-dimensional nudes on the eye that shift from oyster pearl to bronze, or a frosted lip. This season it’s all about playful texture.”

Chen agrees, explaining that this approach lends itself well to complexion finishes, too. “Instead of chunky glitter, I would opt for microfine or metallic wash. Using a soft-focus highlighter rather than full-on disco ball will modernise the look, as well as keeping the base as natural as possible, so your clients look polished but not overdone,” she suggests.

How to ensure makeup photographs well

Parties and other special occasions often result in lots of photo opportunities, so it’s likely your clients will want to ensure their makeup looks good both in person and on camera.    

“I always say prep is everything,” explains Chen. “If the skin is smooth and hydrated, the makeup instantly sits better and photographs beautifully. I like to use a satin-finish foundation, something with a soft glow but not too shiny,” she says.  

Meanwhile, Fihema notes that flawless under eyes are a must, as this is an area that can often look problematic when it comes to flash photography. Whether you’re using a loose or pressed powder, make sure you’ve tested these out for flashback before using on your clients.  

When it comes to technique, Patel recommends spending a little extra time on blending – especially with complexion products. “Flash photography can highlight any harsh lines or uneven application, so using a damp sponge to softly press and diffuse product ensures a seamless, photo-ready finish,” she explains.

“It’s those small steps that make a big difference in how makeup translates in real life and in pictures.”

The most popular makeup textures and finishes in 2025

Essex echoes the observation that ‘clean girl’ makeup has continued to prove popular, explaining, “We’ve noticed a shift towards lighter textures, with a focus on buildable, dewy cream and liquid formulations that enhance the natural skin, rather than full coverage bases that can have the tendency to sit in fine lines and wrinkles.”

Discussing the reason behind this shift, she continues, “With the incredible rise in popularity of advanced skincare and aesthetic treatments aimed at improving skincare texture, we now want to embrace our skin and show off our progress, giving it as much focus, if not more, than the eyes and lips.”

However, that’s not to say that powder products don’t have a place in the latest makeup trends, with Utting acknowledging that people are becoming more aware of the advantages of combining creams and powders.

“Formulas are now created to be able to be used in synchronicity, meaning you can layer and build both together. Cream eyeshadow bases are becoming more popular to lay as a base for powder shadows to be used on top, meaning the pigment of the powder shows more.”

Fihema agrees, especially when it comes to complexion. “Cream formulas give natural movement and a lit-from-within glow, while powders are used strategically to set, and extend makeup wear.”

When discussing textures and finishes, ‘soft’ is the key word Chen uses to describe the current state of play. “Powders are being used more lightly, just to set, not to mask,” she explains. “And instead of chunky glitter, we’re seeing finer metallics and soft shimmers – they catch the light in such a flattering way.”

How salons can create a calm, luxury experience during peak season

The festive period is one of the busiest times in a salon, with an increased number of clients looking to treat themselves to a little pampering. With this in mind, how can salons ensure they are still providing a relaxing experience? It all comes down to timing…

“Glamming someone getting ready for a busy Christmas party can be super stressful, and the expectation on the makeup artist is even higher when it’s for an important event,” notes Utting.

“For me, ensuring there is enough time for glam is always the most important. Get there early to set up, have everything planned and be ready for changes! I always make sure everything is sanitised and ready to go.

“I like to treat my clients to a nice face massage before I start makeup, it relaxes them but also makes the skin look so much healthier!”

As we move into the busiest weeks of the year, one thing is clear: clients are embracing makeup that feels elevated yet effortless.

From the depth of burgundy tones to the warmth of toasted glamour and the freshness of luminous skin, this year’s party trends strike the perfect balance between impact and wearability. 

Texture is playing a major role too, with microfine metallics, soft shimmers and cream-and-powder layering helping artists create looks that hold up under party lighting and constant photographs.

With thoughtful prep, considered product choices and a calm approach behind the chair, MUAs can deliver makeup that not only lasts all night but makes clients feel confident, relaxed and ready to celebrate.

Q&A: Party Makeup Trends 2025

What are the biggest party makeup trends for 2025?
The key trends include burgundy and chocolate tones, toasted glamour with rich ambers and sculpted features, luminous “clean girl” skin, wearable metallic finishes, and softly layered cream-and-powder textures.

What makeup look is most flattering for winter events?
Luminous, softly sculpted skin paired with warm eye tones or microfine metallic accents works well for winter lighting and evening photography. The combination of glow plus definition tends to be universally flattering.

How can makeup artists ensure festive looks last all night?
Focus on skin prep, build colour in thin layers, and combine cream and powder textures for increased longevity. Opt for matte lip liners, long-wear stains and strategic powder placement to reduce movement.

What makeup photographs best in flash?
Satin or soft-glow foundations, well-hydrated skin, and finely milled powders tend to photograph the most seamlessly. Avoid heavy highlighter or products that cause flashback, especially under the eyes.

What textures and finishes are most popular right now?
Buildable creams, lightweight liquids and soft-set powders dominate 2025 makeup trends. MUAs favour products that enhance natural skin while allowing strategic powder for longevity and definition.

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Fall Makeup Trends 

Fall Makeup Trends 

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Virginia Tech chapter and does not reflect the views of Her Campus.

I love it when the weather starts to get a little cooler, and with the change always comes a new aesthetic. This season, toasty makeup is all the rage. With lots of browns and autumn colors used, this is what I have seen all over TikTok and Pinterest for tips on how to achieve the ultimate fall look.  

Burgundy lips 

It should come as no surprise that the “it” lip color of the season matches the leaves when they start to fall. You can make it slightly more subtle by only using a burgundy lip liner or go all out and find the perfect matching lipstick. I personally enjoy a good sparkly gloss over top to finish the lip off. The statement lip is gorgeous to go with your pumpkin spice latte. 

Smoky eyeliner 

Drawing attention to the eyes is also in this season. A brown or gray is great for the middle of the eye. Then, get darker shades as you go out and blend away to create that smoky effect. Adding a wing with your favorite eyeliner will complete this look. I love this one since you can have fun with it. The eyeshadow does not have to be perfect and it even looks better when it is a little messy. You can use eyeliner or shadow sticks to switch it up.  

Light complexion 

I think the base look for fall is somewhere in between matte and dewy. Skin prep is still super important, so make sure to have your moisturizer on and don’t forget the sunscreen, even if it is getting cooler out. From what I have seen, a skin tint or light foundation seems to be what most people are using to start their makeup look off. Whatever amount of coverage you prefer will be perfect for your new fall routine.  

Toasted bronzer/ bronzed look 

Bronzer might be the most important step in the fall toasty look going around the internet. So, make sure to pack it on! Take your favorite bronzer and layer it up. You can put it all over your cheekbones, forehead, jawline, and even take it on to your eyes a little. This is perfect for achieving that warm, bronzed look. 

Terracotta blush 

I personally think that blush is one of the best steps in any makeup routine. Over the summer, there were a few trending shades of pink. For the fall, however, we are seeing more of this terracotta or red or burgundy shade. Layer on as much as you like. I love using lots of blush in my routine.  

Seeing what trends are new and which come back from different years is one thing that I adore about the changing seasons. I am a big fan of everything I have seen online so far and will definitely be giving all the steps a try. So, pick up your makeup brushes and start getting creative to try out your new fall-inspired makeup look. 

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