As we step into 2024, the world of makeup continues to evolve, embracing bold new trends while celebrating timeless classics. Whether you’re a makeup enthusiast or just looking to refresh your look, this guide will take you through the hottest trends for 2024, the ones on their way out, and the enduring styles that never fail to impress.
What’s In: Embracing Individuality
Bold Colors and Graphic Eyeliner
According to Sir John, Beyoncé’s makeup artist, “2024 is all about embracing individuality and expressing yourself through makeup. There are no rules, so experiment with bold colors, graphic eyeliner, and unexpected textures” (Vogue). This year, makeup is a canvas for creativity. Vibrant eyeshadows, neon eyeliners, and daring lip colors are in. Think bright blues, greens, and pinks, not just on your lids but also as accents in your eyeliner or mascara. Graphic eyeliner, with sharp lines and geometric shapes, is also making a statement.
Skinimalism
Danessa Myricks, a renowned makeup artist and founder of Danessa Myricks Beauty, emphasizes that “Skinimalism is still going strong in 2024. It’s about enhancing your natural beauty with lightweight, breathable formulas that let your skin shine through” (Danessa Myricks Beauty). This trend focuses on minimal foundation and more on skincare. Products that combine skincare benefits with makeup, like tinted moisturizers, are perfect for achieving a natural, glowing complexion.
High-Shine Finishes
Patrick Ta, a celebrity makeup artist, notes, “Gloss is back in a big way. From lips to eyes to cheeks, a high-shine finish is the perfect way to add a touch of glamour to your look” (Cosmopolitan). Glossy finishes are making a comeback. High-shine lip glosses, dewy highlighters, and even glossy eyeshadows are adding a touch of sparkle to makeup routines. The goal is to look radiant and fresh, with a youthful glow.
What’s Out: Saying Goodbye to Overdone Looks
Heavy Contouring
In recent years, heavy contouring has been a staple, but 2024 is shifting away from this trend. The new focus is on a more natural look, with subtle enhancements. Heavy contouring can often appear harsh and unnatural, which contrasts with the current emphasis on natural beauty.
Matte Everything
Matte makeup had its moment, but 2024 is all about a dewy, fresh-faced look. While matte products can still have their place, especially for those with oily skin, the overall trend is towards products that offer a healthy, radiant finish.
Overdrawn Brows
The era of the overly drawn, sharply defined brow is fading. Instead, naturally full brows are in vogue. The goal is to enhance your natural brow shape, filling in sparse areas without creating harsh lines. Soft, feathered brows that look effortless and natural are the way to go.
What’s Timeless: Classic Beauty with a Modern Twist
Red Lips
Violette, a makeup artist and founder of Violette_FR, shares, “We’re seeing a return to classic, timeless makeup looks with a modern twist. Think red lips, winged eyeliner, and perfectly groomed brows, but with a fresh, dewy finish” (Byrdie). Red lips never go out of style. This timeless look can be modernized with a glossy finish or paired with minimal eye makeup for a fresh, sophisticated look.
Winged Eyeliner
The classic winged eyeliner is as popular as ever. This look can be adapted to suit your style, whether you prefer a subtle flick or a dramatic cat-eye. The key is to find the right angle and thickness that flatters your eye shape.
Natural Brows
Natural, well-groomed brows are timeless. The focus is on enhancing your natural brow shape with products that add definition without looking overly done. Brow gels, pencils, and powders in shades that match your natural brow color are essential tools.
Personal Anecdotes and Unique Insights
Growing up, I remember watching my grandmother apply her makeup with such precision and care. She always wore a bold red lipstick, a trend that has stood the test of time. Her confidence and elegance left a lasting impression on me, teaching me that makeup is not just about appearance but also about how it makes you feel.
In my own journey with makeup, I’ve found that trends come and go, but the classics remain. I’ve experimented with bold colors and graphic liners, which make me feel adventurous and expressive. On days when I need a confidence boost, a swipe of red lipstick does wonders. And when I want to embrace my natural beauty, I reach for products that enhance my skin’s radiance without covering it up.
Expert Tips and Recommendations
Choosing the Right Products
Selecting the right makeup products is crucial for achieving the desired look. For bold colors and graphic liners, look for highly pigmented products that offer long-lasting wear. Brands like Fenty Beauty and Urban Decay are known for their vibrant color ranges and staying power.
For skinimalism, opt for products that combine skincare and makeup benefits. Tinted moisturizers with SPF, hydrating primers, and illuminating creams can help you achieve a natural glow. Brands like Glossier and Ilia Beauty offer great options for this trend.
Application Techniques
Mastering the application techniques can make a significant difference. For graphic eyeliner, use a fine-tipped brush or pen to create precise lines. Practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment until you find the style that suits you best.
When aiming for a glossy finish, layer your products strategically. Apply a hydrating base, follow with a dewy foundation, and finish with a glossy highlighter on the high points of your face. For glossy eyes, use a dedicated eye gloss or a clear lip gloss over your eyeshadow for a wet-look effect.
Maintaining Healthy Skin
Healthy skin is the foundation of any great makeup look. Incorporate a consistent skincare routine that includes cleansing, exfoliating, and moisturizing. Using products with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and retinol can help keep your skin in top condition.
Dr. Michele Green, a board-certified dermatologist, emphasizes, “Healthy skin is the foundation of beautiful makeup. Invest in good skincare products and take care of your skin to achieve the best results with your makeup” (Dr. Michele Green Dermatology).
The Influence of Social Media and Celebrity Culture
Social media and celebrity culture continue to play a significant role in shaping makeup trends. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are filled with tutorials, reviews, and inspiration from makeup artists and influencers. Celebrities like Rihanna, with her Fenty Beauty line, and Kylie Jenner, with Kylie Cosmetics, have a massive impact on beauty trends.
A study published in the International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology, and Education explored how the COVID-19 pandemic influenced makeup trends. It found a shift towards natural, “no-makeup” makeup looks and an increased focus on eye makeup due to the widespread use of face masks. This trend continues in 2024, with a balance between natural beauty and bold self-expression.
Final Thoughts
Makeup trends for 2024 are all about embracing individuality, enhancing natural beauty, and having fun with bold colors and glossy finishes. While some trends come and go, timeless looks like red lips, winged eyeliner, and natural brows remain ever-popular.
As you explore these trends, remember that makeup is a tool for self-expression and confidence. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what makes you feel your best. And most importantly, enjoy the process of discovering new looks and techniques.
By incorporating tips from experts like Sir John, Violette, Danessa Myricks, and Patrick Ta, you can stay ahead of the trends and create makeup looks that reflect your unique style. So go ahead, embrace the power of makeup, and let your personality shine through every swipe of color and flick of liner.
