The Biggest Winter Makeup Trends to Try Right Now
We’re in the heart of winter, and that doesn’t just mean reaching for heavier coats and cosy knits, it also calls for a seasonal refresh in your makeup routine.
The beauty trends dominating this winter embrace richer colours, softer textures and polished finishes that complement the colder months. From velvety skin and berry-stained lips to smoky eyes and understated shimmer, this season is all about makeup that feels luxurious, wearable and effortlessly chic. While these trends first emerged on international runways, celebrity makeup artists and social media creators have been quick to make them accessible for everyday beauty lovers.
One of the biggest shifts this season is the return of soft matte skin. But don’t mistake it for the heavy matte finishes of the 2010s. Today’s complexion is hydrated and healthy, with a blurred, velvety finish that still allows natural skin to shine through. Celebrity makeup artist Lisa Eldridge has been one of the strongest voices behind the trend, predicting a move away from ultra-glossy complexions towards skin that looks polished without appearing overly dewy. It’s a look that’s practical for winter too, as colder weather often makes maintaining an overly luminous finish more difficult.
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While skin is becoming softer, lips are becoming bolder. Instead of the classic pillar-box red often associated with winter, makeup artists are embracing deeper berry, plum and oxblood shades. The trend has been spotted across international runways thanks to legendary makeup artist Pat McGrath, while celebrities like Jenna Ortega have helped cement dark romantic lips as one of the season’s defining beauty statements. These richer colours feel sophisticated and pair effortlessly with oversized coats and knitwear.
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Blush has become the hero product of the season, bringing warmth and dimension back to the complexion. Rather than keeping colour confined to the apples of the cheeks, makeup artists are blending rosy and berry hues high across the cheekbones and softly over the bridge of the nose for a naturally flushed finish. Celebrity makeup artist Patrick Ta, whose signature layering technique has transformed the way blush is applied, continues to champion luminous, sculpted cheeks, while singer Sabrina Carpenter’s soft pink, doll-like flush has inspired thousands of tutorials across TikTok.
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Eyes are becoming moodier too. The smoky eye has officially returned, but this time with a softer approach. Instead of harsh black shadow, makeup artists are reaching for espresso browns, charcoal greys, burgundy and deep bronze tones that create definition without feeling overpowering. Once again, Pat McGrath has led the charge on international runways, proving that smoky eyes can feel modern when blended seamlessly and paired with glowing skin.
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Shimmer is also making a comeback, but not in the glitter-heavy way many remember. Instead, makeup artists are opting for satin eyeshadows, pearlescent highlighters and luminous finishes that catch the light subtly. Katie Jane Hughes, known for her artistic yet wearable makeup looks, has embraced this softer shimmer aesthetic, proving that sparkle can still feel elegant and refined.
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Related Story: https://theinsight.co.za/2026/07/26/get-a-soft-radiant-glow-with-the-elizabeth-arden-blush-collection/
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