The beauty industry has witnessed a notable shift in recent years, particularly with the emergence of the clean girl makeup trend. Initially drawn to beauty by the allure of avant-garde styles, many enthusiasts long for a time when makeup was a canvas for creativity, characterized by bright colors, rhinestones, and metallic finishes. The current focus on an almost makeup-free aesthetic has left some feeling uninspired. However, recent trends indicate a revival of vibrant looks, particularly with a resurgence of eyeshadow in its various forms.
This fall, makeup trends reflect a decisive return to colorful and neutral eyeshadows. Various brands are showcasing new eyeshadow products, signaling this revival. For example, Makeup By Mario has struggled to keep its Long-Wear Cream Eyeshadow in stock, while Bobbi Brown has reintroduced the popular Long-Wear Cream Shadow Sticks. Celebrity makeup artist Hung Vanngo has launched a new line featuring eight diverse eyeshadow palettes. The recent introduction of a new Naked palette by Urban Decay further emphasizes this vibrant transformation.
Fashion Week: A glimpse into evolving makeup trends
New York Fashion Week served as a pivotal platform for observing this shift in makeup trends. Each show featured editors and trendsetters experimenting with bold eyeshadow looks, offering a preview of upcoming styles. During the Collina Strada show, several shimmering shades from Isamaya’s Core 2.0 Palette created an ethereal effect, enhanced by a coat of green YSL Lash Clash Mascara. At the Valentino Beauty event at Studio 54, an ultra-shimmery cut crease was demonstrated using Danessa Myricks Colorfix Stix.
Runway inspirations and real-life applications
While runway trends may seem distant from everyday life, they often foreshadow styles appearing on social media. For instance, makeup artist Alex Levy reimagined glittery eyes reminiscent of the Euphoria era during the Zankov show, while Pat McGrath adorned models with delicate baby-blue shadow at the Anna Sui show. These creative approaches are paving the way for a new era of makeup that embraces color and artistry.
For the spring/summer 2026 collection, Isamaya Ffrench matched models’ eye makeup to the Collina Strada color palette, employing muted tones and color-coordinated winged lashes. In contrast, Jaleesa Jaikaran delivered a sultry look at Christian Cowan featuring smudged, rimmed eyes with Rimmel products. Similarly, Romero Jennings, the MAC director of artistry, showcased a mix of cool-toned smokey eyes and shimmering golds during the Kim Shui show.
The future of makeup trends
Experts forecast that upcoming makeup trends for fall 2025 will focus on what is termed “it girl” makeup. Jennings describes this style as featuring strong eyeliner complemented by soft, smudged cool-toned shadows. Influencers such as Julia Fox, Gabbriette, and Alex Consani are redefining the application of eyeshadow with an effortlessly cool vibe.
Reviving historical influences
Levy notes a growing interest in 1960s makeup aesthetics, drawing inspiration from the timeless advertisements of Serge Lutens for Dior. This modern interpretation emphasizes color harmonizing with the entire face, rather than merely being an afterthought, reshaping perceptions of eye makeup. Whether opting for a subtle smudge or a bold stroke of color, the focus on eyes is gaining momentum once more.
As a beauty editor at Cosmopolitan, my role involves exploring skincare, makeup, and hair trends while keeping my eyeshadow techniques strong. With four years of experience as an editor at The Everygirl, I share the latest developments in beauty with my audience. Follow my journey on Instagram for vibrant makeup selfies and hair transformations that inspire creativity.