1. Moody Monochromes
Explore the rich and romantic side of fall with monochromatic makeup looks that bring out the cozy vibes of the season. This trend is all about using similar tones across your eyes, cheeks, and lips to create a seamless, stylish finish. Think warm, earthy shades like burnt orange, deep plum, and terracotta—colors that mirror the changing leaves and golden sunsets of autumn.
Why It Works for Fall
These moody hues not only complement fall fashion staples like chunky sweaters and leather jackets, but they also add warmth and depth to your overall look. Whether you’re heading to a pumpkin patch or just sipping a latte at your favorite café, this trend keeps you looking effortlessly put-together.
Go-To Shades for Moody Monochrome Looks
| Shade | Best For | Try It With |
|---|---|---|
| Burnt Orange | Warm skin tones | Cream blush + matte lipstick combo |
| Deep Plum | Cool or neutral skin tones | Satin eyeshadow + glossed lips |
| Terracotta | All skin tones | Mousse blush + tinted balm |
Pro Tip:
Use multi-use sticks or cream products that can be applied to eyes, lips, and cheeks for an easy, blended look. The key is to keep everything in the same color family but vary the textures—like pairing a matte eye with a glossy lip—for added dimension.
2. Glowing Skin with a Matte Twist
Fall is all about embracing cozy layers, warm tones, and yes — a fresh take on flawless skin. This season, it’s not just dewy or matte — it’s the best of both worlds. Think soft, glowing highlights paired with a velvety matte base. The goal? Skin that looks lit-from-within but stays polished and shine-free throughout crisp autumn days.
How to Nail the Look
Strike the perfect balance between radiant and controlled skin by layering products strategically. Start with a hydrating primer to keep your skin smooth and prepped. Then, apply a matte foundation that controls oil without looking flat. Finish with a liquid or cream highlighter on key points of the face — think cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of your nose.
Pro Tip:
Use a damp makeup sponge to press highlighter into the skin for a more natural finish. Avoid shimmer overload by sticking to highlighters with a subtle sheen instead of chunky glitter.
Recommended Product Pairings
| Product Type | Recommended Finish | Where to Apply |
|---|---|---|
| Primer | Dewy or Hydrating | All over face |
| Foundation | Soft Matte or Velvet Matte | T-zone & full face |
| Highlighter | Cream or Liquid (Natural Glow) | Corners of eyes, cheekbones, nose bridge |
Why It Works for Fall
The cooler weather means less sweating and more control over how your makeup wears throughout the day. A matte foundation helps keep everything in place, while strategic highlighting ensures your complexion doesn’t look dull as temperatures drop. It’s the ideal combo for fall photoshoots, pumpkin patch dates, and Thanksgiving gatherings.
3. Bold Berry Lips
Statement lips return every fall, and this season is no exception. From juicy blackberry to wine-stained reds and rich cranberry tones, bold berry lips are the ultimate go-to for an autumn makeup refresh. These deep, dramatic shades not only warm up your look but also add a touch of sophistication perfect for cozy sweaters and crisp fall days.
Why We Love It
Berry-toned lipsticks flatter nearly every skin tone and bring instant drama without needing a full face of makeup. They’re bold, confident, and make you look effortlessly put together—even if youre just running out for a pumpkin spice latte.
Best Shades to Try
| Shade | Description | Perfect For |
|---|---|---|
| Blackberry | Deep purple with cool undertones | Evening events or a chic night-out look |
| Wine-Stained Red | Burgundy with a hint of plum | A moody daytime statement or romantic date night |
| Cranberry | Classic red with berry undertones | A versatile choice for work or weekend brunch |
How to Wear It Right
- Keep eye makeup minimal—think soft neutral eyeshadows or just mascara.
- Use a lip liner to prevent feathering and define your pout.
- If youre going matte, prep your lips with a gentle scrub and hydrating balm.
Pro Tip:
Dab your bold lipstick on with your finger for a stained effect during the day, then layer it fully in the evening for more impact.
4. Earth-Toned Eyeshadow Revival
As the leaves start to turn, its the perfect time to reintroduce nature’s palette into your makeup routine. Earth-toned eyeshadows are making a major comeback this fall, bringing warm, grounding hues like olive green, rust, and sienna back to center stage. These shades not only complement the season but also flatter a wide range of skin tones.
Why Earth Tones Work for Fall
These colors mirror the changing landscape—think fallen leaves, cozy sweaters, and pumpkin patches. Theyre rich without being too bold, offering depth and warmth that feels just right for cooler months.
Top Shades to Try
| Shade | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Olive Green | A muted green with brown undertones | Brown and hazel eyes |
| Rust | A burnt orange-red hue | Warm undertones |
| Sienna | A deep reddish-brown shade | All skin tones |
How to Wear It
The key to nailing this trend is layering textures and soft blending. Start with a matte base shade across your lid, then add dimension by applying a shimmer or satin finish in the crease or outer corners. Use a fluffy brush to blend everything together for that polished yet effortless look.
Pro Tip:
If youre going for an everyday vibe, keep it subtle with just one earthy tone. For evening looks, mix multiple shades and add a touch of gold shimmer to highlight the inner corners of your eyes.
5. Graphic Liner and Soft Smudges
This fall, eye makeup is all about contrast—sharp lines meet soft edges in a way that feels both fresh and wearable. Whether youre into bold statement looks or prefer something more low-key, graphic liner and smudged eyeliner are two of the top trends you’ll want to try.
Graphic Liner: Bold and Edgy
Graphic eyeliner is making waves this season, with bold shapes, negative space designs, and floating lines leading the charge. The key is precision—think clean, sharp lines that frame the eyes in creative ways. This look pairs perfectly with minimal face makeup to let your eyes do all the talking.
Tips for Trying Graphic Liner:
- Use a felt-tip liquid liner for better control.
- Start with a classic winged liner, then build on it with geometric shapes or double lines.
- Stick to black for a classic look or try jewel tones like emerald or navy for a seasonal twist.
Soft Smudges: Effortless and Cool
If precise lines aren’t your thing, go for the “lived-in” vibe with softly smudged eyeliner. This trend gives off that effortless cool-girl energy and works great for both day and night looks. It’s also incredibly forgiving if youre short on time or new to makeup.
How to Get the Look:
- Use a pencil liner or creamy eyeshadow stick along your upper and lower lash line.
- Smudge it out with a small brush or even your fingertip.
- Add a bit of mascara for definition, or pair with neutral shadow for more depth.
Compare the Trends
| Trend | Style | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Graphic Liner | Clean, sharp lines; geometric designs | Bold statement looks; fashion-forward events |
| Soft Smudges | Blended, smoky edges; casual feel | Everyday wear; quick makeup routines |
No matter which direction you choose—precision or softness—these eyeliner trends are an easy way to refresh your fall makeup routine. Try mixing both styles throughout the week depending on your mood or occasion!
