As the temperatures drop, makeup trends for Fall 2026 are making a significant impact. Celebrity makeup artist Ash K. Holm highlights several styles that underscore a shift towards intricate yet understated aesthetics. Among the top trends are berry-stained lips, smoky eyes, and velvety skin, enhancing the seasonal vibe.

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1. **Toasted Monochrome**: Brown tones are taking center stage this fall, with Holm noting that brown eye shadow, mascara, and lip products have gained popularity, influenced by the '90s aesthetic. Nency Barylko adds that this trend blends warm coffee hues with cool, icy metallics, allowing for a softer definition compared to harsher tones.

2. **'90s Lips**: Both Holm and Barylko emphasize that the defined '90s ombré lip continues to resonate. To achieve this look, they recommend using a deep lip liner for contouring, paired with a lighter center color for balance, creating a softer and more modern interpretation of the classic style.

3. **Ombré Mascara**: Holm introduces the technique of ombré mascara, where a brown formula is applied to the lashes, followed by black on the outer edges. This method creates an optical illusion for a lifted, elongated eye appearance without heavy liner.

4. **Minimal Contour**: The approach to contouring is shifting towards minimalism. Makeup artist Vincent Oquendo advocates for a light touch of concealer, blush, and highlighter, forgoing heavy contouring to emphasize a natural, lifted look achieved by placing contour higher on the face.

5. **Smudgy Shadow**: Barylko notes that intentionally smudged eye shadow remains a fall favorite, particularly in chocolate, charcoal, or plum shades. This effortless look pairs best with a sculpted complexion and allows for a more relaxed take on makeup application.

6. **Jewel-Toned Eyes**: Steve Kassajikian from Urban Decay is excited about incorporating rich jewel tones like emerald green, amethyst purple, and sapphire blue into fall looks. These vibrant colors are intended to add brightness and dimension to the autumn palette.

7. **Unconventional Placements**: There is a growing trend of using makeup in unexpected ways. Oquendo suggests applying eye shadow to the temples, blush to the forehead, and other areas to transform makeup into a form of decoration without feeling overly editorial.

These trends reflect a blend of nostalgia and modernity, making Fall 2026 an exciting season for makeup enthusiasts.