The fall makeup trends of 2026 emphasize showcasing your best features, whether they are lips, eyes, or skin. For those who enjoy accentuating their lips, a bold lipstick can create a polished look without the need for extensive makeup. Deep berry shades offer an air of mystery while maintaining a low-maintenance aesthetic. Alternatively, for a focus on skin, a nearly bare face can be complemented with a hint of balmy sheen for a naturally radiant appearance. Eyes can be enhanced with sculptural lashes, soft smoky eyes, or cool-toned eyeshadow.
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Christian Briceno, a New York City-based makeup artist, witnesses the trend of minimal coverage that allows skin to shine through. He notes that a bare face paired with bold lips exudes confidence. For lips, options range from bright red hues to darker shades that convey allure. Similarly, Briceno highlights the evolution of lip tints that provide rich color without a heavy, opaque feel.
The shadow trend this season favors earthy, cool tones, achievable with a single wash of color such as slate or muted charcoal. Briceno distinguishes this from traditional smoky eyes, advocating for a nuanced, sheer approach that allows skin texture to remain visible.
Lash styles are shifting towards extremes, with either completely bare or highly sculptural lashes becoming popular. Briceno believes that lashes should serve as a design element, adding drama while allowing natural eye shapes to be visible. For a wet lash look, he recommends starting with a lengthening mascara before carefully clustering lashes using a precise tool.
Moisturized skin with targeted balmy reflective areas is another trend, providing a balance between glowing and controlled looks. Briceno suggests applying moisturizer selectively and using foundations where necessary to maintain a natural appearance.
The shift towards softer smoky eyes is reflected in the use of richer colors like plum and chocolate, blended seamlessly for a romantic effect. Artists recommend building color gradually from the lash line, focusing on soft, blended edges.
This season also sees a shift from contouring to a focus on blush, with rosy tones applied higher on the cheeks to create a natural lift. Carrillo emphasizes that blush can effectively shape the face without harsh lines, while DiStasio advocates for a skin-first approach that emphasizes natural beauty without masking imperfections.