Spring 2026 make-up trends

Elle magazine reports that the new season is centred around 'skinimalism', 90s glamour, full lips and unconventional lashes.

Skinimalism - skin instead of make-up
The main rule of the season is glowing, well-groomed skin as an alternative to a thick tone. Make-up artists from brands Bach Mai and Christian Siriano have abandoned concealers in favour of mini-flash sessions and an 'inside-out' glow.

"The best make-up is healthy skin," emphasises celebrity make-up artist Marcello Costa.

Dark, bold eyes
While the skin is left "bare," the look becomes the main expressive accent.

"The main star is the grunge-inspired smokey eye," says Shyanna Taylor.

At the Khaite show, make-up artist Diane Kendal was inspired by the morning "post-party hangover" aesthetic, using smudged shadow and Nars Climax mascara.

Lashes as an art object
Coloured and voluminous false lashes are the hit of the season. The Collina Strada show used multi-coloured lash wings from Lashify, and the Alice + Olivia show used gold pigment on the lashes. White mascara is also in fashion - for example at the Eckhaus Latta show.

Lips are the centre of attention
According to Isamaya French, make-up artist for the Off-White show, spring/summer 2026 is the season of the expressive lip. Dark browns, deep pinks and classic reds are in vogue, especially matte textures. MAC's iconic colours Ruby Woo and Lady Danger dominated The Blonds show.

Blush fades into the shadows
Bright cheeks give way to a soft flush of warmth. At the PatBo show, make-up artist Olivia Madorma used only a light pink shade from the Morphe palette. And at Luar they did without blush at all, limiting themselves to MAC matte bronzer.

Spring 2026 make-up is a balance between naturalness and expressiveness, where groomed skin, dramatic looks and thoughtful details create a look that speaks more than words.