Photo via @sydneyjharper

Cool-toned makeup dominated 2025 as the beauty scene leaned into moodier, goth-adjacent aesthetics. And as we settle into the new year, that energy is still going strong. One of the most standout looks leading the way is chrome makeup, a futuristic take on icy silvers that feels fresh and surprisingly wearable. If you’re usually loyal to warm neutrals and don’t know where to start, this look is your entry point. It’s beginner-friendly, night-out ready, and strikes the perfect balance between subtle shimmer and full-on drama. Expect glowing skin and metallic lids that turns heads without weighing you down. Ahead, the step-by-step breakdown to get the chrome effect right.

Base

Start with a base that acts as both skincare and primer, e.g. the Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base, to give your skin a luminous, hydrated glow. Apply a light layer of high-coverage foundation, being careful not to overdo it so the skin still looks natural and fresh. Apply concealer only where you need brightness or coverage. Lightly set the under-eye area with powder, then add a touch of bronzer to the forehead and cheekbones for warmth. You can skip blush entirely or apply just a hint, blending it softly into the bronzer for a seamless gradient. Finish with a light mist of setting spray before moving on.

Eyes

Groom and fill in your brows, keeping them clean and softly defined. To begin the eye look, blend a dusting of medium gray eyeshadow into the crease to create depth. Next comes the chrome hero product. For a smooth, liquid-metal finish, opt for a chrome eyeshadow like Danessa Myricks Colorfix. If you prefer a more textured, high-impact sparkle, a glitter formula like Make Up For Ever Cream Eyeshadow delivers that signature shine. Line the waterline with eyeliner and curl your lashes. This pared-back approach keeps the focus on the reflective silver tones. Finish with minimal, neutral lips to avoid competing with the eyes – we love a creamy nude lipstick topped with high-shine gloss.

This wearable take on chrome makeup is such a fun way to switch things up!

• Susan Hang

  Susan is an experienced fashion and beauty writer with a knack for sharing insider tips and tricks. With a wealth of industry knowledge and a passion for all things style-related, she is here to guide you on your fashion and beauty journey. Susan has attended several fashion weeks and gained a behind-the-scenes look at countless beauty teams, witnessing the magic that happens both on and off the runway. Having collaborated with top beauty brands and ghostwriting for renowned influencers, there’s no doubt she has valuable insights into the exclusive world of fashion and beauty. Susan’s distinctive voice combines an editorial edge with a conversational and lighthearted tone, making her advice accessible and enjoyable. She understands that fashion and beauty are about self-expression and feeling confident in your own skin so she is committed to empowering you to embrace your own aesthetic and enhance your inner beauty. Tune into her musings to stay up to date on the latest fashion obsessions, discover beauty secrets, and obtain expert advice that will make you feel like a superstar on the daily. Whether you’re seeking fashion-forward tips, the perfect skincare routine, or a dose of style inspiration, Susan has you covered. Get ready to decode the hottest trends and uncover game-changing products with her guidance.

  Lead Editor | Trend Reports & Beauty

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