Though I’d love to live in a state of white denim–filled delusion, summer 2025 is officially coming to a close. As the leaves turn brown and our jeans turn blue, this fall is shaping up to be a bit more dark and stormy than the last—and no, I’m not talking about the weather.
When it comes to the season’s makeup trends, dark, messy, punk-rock glam is poised to reign supreme. Sorry to the clean-girl obsessives, it’s finally time to bid adieu to the aesthetic and start getting a little more creative with our makeup kits. Celebrity makeup artists Vincent Oquendo and Christian Briceno emphasized the importance of experimentation, unexpected colors, and interesting makeup placement, inspiring us to think outside the box.
Though simple makeup looks will always have their place, intensity, vibrancy, and passion are taking over this season, leading us away from minimalism and toward drama and fantasy. Below, take a look at the top makeup trends we can expect to see this fall season, according to fashion week runways, renowned makeup artists, and ELLE editors.
Blush Play
A good blush is probably one of the easiest ways to elevate a makeup look. Whether you like a full beat or are loyal to the minimalist makeup aesthetic, the right blush—and strategic placement—will make all the difference. “We’re going to continue to see blush beyond comprehension continue,” Oquendo jokes, noting the newfound rise of blush layering and coral shades. Briceno adds, “Blush is pulling double duty this fall—it gives color and shape,” inspiring us to think about how higher placement can help softly sculpt the face without the need for heavy contour. “It’s soft, it’s modern, and it totally changes the facial structure without anyone knowing how.”
Metallic Grunge
Christopher John Rogers
I’d like to call this next trend “Ke$ha core.” Both Oquendo and Briceno fawned over the punk-rock glam taking over runways—think smudged-out eyeliner, blurred lips, and messy metallic pigment washed across lids and lips. “Grunge is back, but she’s cleaned up,” says Briceno. “It’s moody but grown—like ’90s makeup but edited with taste.”
Barely-There Complexion
In Fall 2025, we’re letting our skin breathe. “Heavy foundation isn’t the move right now,” says Briceno. Instead, a sheer tint and a little spot concealing is all you really need. “Even on the runway, people are going to be showing imperfections, showing dark circles, and then doing these drama eyes,” says Oquendo.
Blowing Smoke
The smoky eye, much like smudged liner, is here to stay. However, this season, instead of reaching for a black or deep brown shade, artists are opting for light grey, almost silver hues for a subtle yet ethereal twist. “This season’s smoky eye is all about softness and cool tones,” says Briceno. “It’s less about harsh contrast or a dramatic shape, and more like a cloud of shadow.” The result? A lighter look that adds depth without overwhelming the entire face.
Vampy Lips
It isn’t just our eyes that are getting darker. “Vampy lips are going to be everywhere this season,” says Briceno. Expect deep tones like espresso, wine, and black cherry—with a creamy or satin finish, so they feel soft, not flat. “There’s something classic about a dark lip, but this version feels new again,” Briceno adds, delivering grown-up drama in the best possible way.
Ultra-Thin Eyebrows
My thick-browed self felt pain just typing that title. But alas, the thin eyebrows of the early aughts are making their way back into our lives. “I’ve been seeing people bleaching their brows and drawing that sort of ’20s brow, or the ’90s brow,” says Oquendo. “I think we’re gonna see it on the runways, and I think we’re gonna see it in the culture.” Thankfully, in 2025, there’s no need to overpluck your hair into oblivion. Instead, reach for an extra-light brow gel paired with an ultra-precise pencil.
