Bright colors, warm blush, and glowing skin. It seems like a lot of summer 2024 makeup trends are inspired by the season itself. For starters, blush reflects spending active time in the sun, whether it’s high in the sky or setting below the horizon. “The whole theme of summer 2024 is blush,” says makeup artist Brandi Allen, pointing to tan blush and boyfriend blush as examples. “The possibilities are endless!”
Another expert-approved three-pronged tip? “Skin, skin, skin!” says makeup artist Melanie Inglessis, who lists a nourished glow and plenty of protection as must-haves this season. (And in case you’re wondering, Inglessis says, “SPF is cool!”) Anticipating a season where skin comes to the forefront, Inglessis finishes off with a touch that lets skin show through and enhances a natural glow.
The carefree vibe of summer also invites some irreverent details. Aqua blues and sassy girlish greens make for bold eyeshadow shades, while eyeliner is smudged in a grunge style for a rebellious effect. And what about lips? Go for gloss or opt for an organic stain or lipstick that evokes freshly picked summer snacks?
Here are nine makeup trends to watch this summer.
Sunset Shade
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Painted to celebrate a midsummer sunset, ombré blush blends pinks, tangerines and corals for a flattering, defined look. This crowd-pleasing trend was started by beauty influencer Alyssa Janai, and the painterly approach can easily be adapted to suit any face and preference. If blush isn’t your thing, try a gradient on your lids. For the ultimate example, go outside and watch the sunset.
Grunge Girl Eyes
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Grunge beauty has been on trend for a while now, but this season’s eye liner is defiantly smudged. Celebrating imperfection, worn-in eye liner channels the “just as it is” spirit of wild summer nights while fostering a larger (and welcome) theme of carelessness. “I’m sick of the clean girl aesthetic, so I’m super excited to hop on a trend that I absolutely love,” says makeup artist Donnie Davey. “I’ll apply some eye liner, smudge it, smudge it, apply lots of mascara to my lashes, and splash some glitter or shimmer on my lids.
Full Flash
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Whether you prefer a fake tan or boyfriend blush, swirls of pigment designed to make your complexion look naturally flushed are a top trend this season. “I’m so happy blush is making a comeback right now – it’s fun, youthful and really brightens up anyone’s face!” says Christina. “I personally love cream blushes, as they mimic the texture of skin, so they melt into the skin for the perfect blend.”
Gloss Lip
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Summer and lip gloss are the perfect combination, taking your lips from day to night with just one swipe. “I look great in gloss,” says Christina. “It’s sexy and super easy to achieve.” Makeup artist Christina recommends investing in a gloss with conditioning properties, like PS… Vitamin Lip Oil. “It’s packed with nourishing ingredients like jojoba oil, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E to help soften, smoothen, and hydrate your lips.
Color Mascara
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Broaden your palette without changing your overall look by applying a coat (or more) of colored mascara. Not only does it add a predictable pop of color, but the strategic choice can also open up your eyes and make them stand out. “I love colored mascara, especially electric blues and purples,” says Inglesis, who favors Dior Beauty staples (the brand offers blacks and browns with hints of blue).
Blurred Berry
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Berry season also extends to makeup palettes. The goal here is for your lip color to look like it came from a bite (or several) of berries, or a natural finish with a stain, or from this summer’s trendy blemished lip. “The best way to create a blemished lip is to use a lip product that’s not too shiny,” says Christina. “Make sure your product is pigmented so you can see the effect.” Christina recommends applying a matte lipstick directly to your lips and blending the edges with your finger. Finishing with a berry hue “complements the free-spirited vibe of summer,” says Christina.
Glowing Skin
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Summer skin has a dewy, dewy, pearly glow. “You’ll love the fact that you can put less product on your skin,” Inglesis says. “Using a balm like Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream on areas you want to highlight will give you a natural glow that’s not shimmery or reflective.” If you want to stay extra hydrated, dewy skin is also an option. Grab your favorite moisturizer (and SPF), then follow with a glowing primer and cream product to keep skin as dewy and dewy as possible. Finally, adding a touch of highlighter will give your bare skin a beautiful pearly glow, perfect for mermaid play.
Dolly Brush
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A holdover from the Fall 2024 runways, or some might call it the Sabrina Carpenter effect, doll-like beauty is a must-have for Summer 2024. The trend is often paired with an equally luscious lip color, with blush on the cheekbones and a subtle blend of pink hues towards the temples.
Cool colors
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From blue to neon lime (aka brat girl green), this season’s eyeshadows are cool yet vibrant. “Bold eye makeup is back!” says makeup artist Jenna Christina. She predicts we’ll be seeing full-on lid color, layered eyeliner, and splashes of color in the inner corners of the eyes. “People use makeup as a form of creative expression based on their mood or life situation. If you’re feeling super playful and funky, try a vibrant color.” Bonus: The same shades also make for a striking, on-trend manicure and pedicure.
