2024 WINTER MAKEUP TRENDS: FROM FROSTY EYES TO BLURRED LIPS

Now that the holiday festivities have faded, it’s easy to feel a bit lost. But don’t let the cold weather dampen your spirits (or your makeup game)! Winter is the perfect time to unleash your inner artist and experiment with bold, beautiful looks.

As J. Brandon Correa, national makeup artist for YSL Beauté, puts it, “Winter beauty is all about playing with textures and making a statement.” So, let’s dive into the hottest winter makeup trends and discover how to create stunning looks that will brighten even the darkest days.

BOLD LIPS

If your winter wardrobe leans heavily on black and gray (guilty as charged), elevate your look with a pop of color on your lips. “A bold lip is a fantastic way to stand out during the winter, when fashion and weather often feel more subdued,” says Lobell. “Bright lips are perfect for the season, as they create a striking contrast against the pale or dull skin tones many experience in colder months. This contrast can enhance the complexion and bring a fresh, lively energy to your appearance.” Think crimson, deep berry, or vibrant Barbie fuchsia, paired with subtle, minimal makeup. “It’s a bold yet refined look, perfect for making a strong style statement during winter.”

SNOWLIT SHINE

Minimal makeup doesn’t have to be dull; it can dazzle just as much as a full face of blush, contour, and liner. “This trend allows your skin to ‘rest’ from heavy makeup routines,” says Correa. “It’s perfect for this season because it combines a snowy, luminous vibe with a radiant glow.” Inspired by the way sunlight reflects off snow, Correa brings that same shimmering brightness to the face. “Think clean, minimalist skin, translucent sparkles on the eyes, full lashes, and glowing lips.”

Since this look emphasizes glowing skin, Correa suggests using the YSL Touche Éclat All-Over Brightening Concealer Pen to conceal and brighten. Skip the contour and bronzer, focusing instead on your eyes by adding a shimmery topper to the center of the lids. “You can either do a light eye contour or let the shimmer stand on its own,” he says. Complete the look with mascara and a sheer, plumping lip balm like Candy Glaze.

STATEMENT EYELINER

Jillian Dempsey, celebrity makeup artist and founder of Jillian Dempsey, was recently inspired by the UK’s colder weather and bold color palettes. One standout trend she noticed was statement eyeliner. “Eyes are big this winter. Expect eyeliners to make a major statement,” she shares. “The power of this look comes from lining both the upper and lower lids and creating a shape that suits your eyes.” Dempsey favors shades like blackberry, muted black, and deep mahogany for a fresh twist on classic browns and blacks. Think thick wings, waterlining, and exaggerated cat eyes—anything goes. “My Flyk Trick Mascara doubles as a 2-in-1 mascara and liquid liner, perfect for crafting your bold, personalized eyeliner look to match your winter plans,” says Dempsey.

JEWEL TONED EYES

If frosty finishes aren’t your style, opt for rich, vibrant jewel tones instead. Shades like sapphire, emerald, and ruby complement the icy whites and grays of your winter wardrobe beautifully. “I’m seeing a lot of brands pairing their burgundy collections with emerald and midnight blue mascaras and eyeliners,” says Spickard. “It’s a fun and easy way to add some variety to your makeup during these dark, cold months.” He recommends Lancôme’s colored mascaras, especially the emerald green Noir Malachite, for a subtle pop of unexpected color. For the lids, try the Pat McGrath Dark Star Eye Duo, which Spickard describes as “an opulent blue sapphire shimmer.” Add a gloss topper over the shadow to really enhance the sparkle and make the look shine.

DEWY GOLD

Feeling the winter chill? Warm up your look with glowing shades of gold. “Gold tones bring much-needed warmth to the skin, which can often appear dull in winter due to the lack of sunlight,” says Lobell. “The dewy finish of this trend helps counter the dryness that comes with cold weather, giving your skin a hydrated, healthy glow.” Even if you’re not escaping to a tropical paradise, your makeup can make you feel like you are.

“Think warm, golden hues that create a radiant, sun-kissed glow,” Lobell explains. “This look focuses on dewy skin, using gold-toned highlighters and eyeshadows to enhance your natural luminosity. Be the glowing goddess you’re meant to be.” Her recommendations include Neen’s Pretty Shiny Cream Highlighter in Metta for the cheekbones, and Pretty Shady Pressed Pigments in Flash, Fade, and Faint—gold and rose gold shades that shimmer beautifully on the eyes. Complete the look with a brown or nude lip for a perfect finish.

SOFT OMBRÉ LIPS

The ombré lip look has been making waves on TikTok this season, and Carolina Gonzalez, celebrity makeup artist and Armani Beauty Collective member, is a fan of a soft, diffused version that’s easy to achieve with a bit of practice. “Start with the deepest color in the inner part of the lip, then blend it out toward the edges,” she explains. “I love this look because it’s dreamy and gives the lips a full appearance.”

Gonzalez suggests beginning with Armani Beauty’s Lip Power Long-Lasting Matte Lipstick in shade 407. “Pucker your lips and apply the lipstick generously to the center of both the top and bottom lips using the bullet-tip. Then, use a small brush to blend the outer edges slightly beyond the lip line.” For extra drama, add Armani Beauty’s Luminous Silk Glow Blush in shade 61—a raspberry pink—to the outer lips up to the lip line with a full crease brush. “Avoid touching the inner part where the color is dense,” Gonzalez advises. “This silk powder blush adds a velvet-like finish and makes the lips appear fuller and fluffier.”

PINK FROST

If you embraced the TikTok “I’m cold” blush trend last year, you’ll love this 2024 update. “This trend takes the ‘cold girl’ look to the next level by adding black to define shape and structure,” explains Correa. Start by prepping your skin with foundation, concealer, and contour. Next, apply YSL’s Nu Lip and Cheek Balmy Tint in NuChills to your cheeks for a translucent, balmy finish. Dab any leftover product on the tip of your nose for that frostbitten “just came in from the cold” effect.

For your eyes, Correa suggests using YSL’s Couture Mini Clutch palette in Babylone Roses. “Blend the midtone shade to contour your eye shape, apply the midtone shimmer on the lid, and add depth with the deepest shade along the upper and lower lash lines,” he advises. “Finish with a touch of the topper shade from the top left in the inner corners for an icy pop.” Complete the look with mascara and liner, and finish with a combination of the Balmy Tint and Candy Glaze Lip Gloss Stick in Sweet Pink.

MOOD MAKEUP

Donni Davy, co-founder of Half Magic and head makeup artist for Euphoria, uses makeup to create her own winter mood despite living in California’s year-round sun. “A dark lip instantly transforms me into a sort of witchier version of myself, and adding sparkle to my eyes brings a joyful balance to the look,” she says. “It’s fun to embrace a darker, more introspective vibe during the winter.”

Her “joyfully moody” look features dewy skin, glittery eyes with plenty of mascara, and a vampy dark lip. To achieve this, Davy recommends using Half-Magic’s Glitterpill Eye Paint + Liner in Holy Goldie or Microcosm for the “perfect winter sparkles.” Apply these on bare lids for a snowy effect, then layer on the Eyelectric Extreme Lengthening Mascara to highlight the sparkle. For the lips, Davy favors the Mouth Cloud Soft Matte Lip Cream in Edward’s Fantasy, enhancing the shade with Sculptitude 2-in-1 Longwear Lip Liner in Sugar Plum B*itch.

LADY IN RED

Whether it’s in your wardrobe, accessories, or makeup bag, red remains the top accent color for 2024, especially leading up to Valentine’s Day. Swap out your usual lip gloss for a bold, vibrant red lipstick. “Now is the perfect time to opt for a kissable red,” says celebrity makeup artist Kasey Spickard. He highlights Maybelline SuperStay Vinyl in Red Hot as a standout choice, known for its high shine and warm tone. “It has a vibrant hue and stays put once it dries, giving you long-lasting shine,” he explains. Another favorite of Spickard’s is the Sephora Collection Cream Lip Stain in Chili Pepper, a matte red-orange that provides all-day wear.

FROSTY FACE

For makeup inspiration this season, look outside your window and get creative with textures and colors reminiscent of frosty winter mornings. “It’s cold and frosty outside, so embracing themes like snow, ice, and sparkles is perfect,” says Jeanine Lobell, celebrity makeup artist and founder of Neen. “This trend is all about capturing the cool, crisp tones of winter, with icy colors like silvers, pale blues, and frosty pinks.”

The Frosty Face look centers around highlighter, with Lobell recommending her Neen Pretty Shiny Cream Highlighter in the aptly named Frosty shade. For cheeks, aim for a “post-blizzard glow” reminiscent of the TikTok “I’m cold” trend—Lobell favors her Get it All Done Cream Cheek & Lip for this effect. “A vibrant pink will give you that ‘caught in a storm’ look,” she says. Add a frosty touch to your eyes with the Side Eye Liner in Minty and finish with Neen’s Glisten Up Lip Gloss in Bye, a shimmering pink, for a perfect winter finish.

30 HALF-UP HALF-DOWN HAIRSTYLES FOR EVERYDAY AND PARTY LOOKS

Choosing the perfect hairstyle to complement your outfit can be a challenging task for modern women. Let’s enter the half-up half-down: a timeless savior that transcends trends and flatters any outfit. No matter your hair length, this hairstyle works its magic. Long locks cascade down your back, while shorter styles find an unexpected boost of volume and texture. Whether you’re rocking a chic bob or a mane that reaches your toes, this hairstyle adapts, making it the ultimate “one-size-fits-all” solution. Below is our collection of 30 Half-Up Half-Down Hairstyles, curated to offer you suitable options for any occasion. 

HIGH PONYTAIL

Achieving the half-up, half-down high ponytail is a simple procedure. Begin by using a tail comb to divide your hair straight across from ear to ear. Apply a light-hold hairspray to manage any stray hairs. Safely secure the upper portion of your hair using a rubber band or bungee to eliminate the risk of hair breakage. The half-up, half-down high ponytail is a versatile style that can be a great choice for various occasions. Whether you’re attending a casual gathering, a weekend brunch, or even a semi-formal event, this hairstyle adds a touch of sophistication to your overall look. 

CLASSIC WITH A SIDE PART

The “Classic with a Side Part” half-up, half-down hairstyle is a timeless and sophisticated choice that transcends fleeting trends. Regardless of your face shape or hair texture, this style can be tailored to suit your individual features. For those with round faces, the side part creates the illusion of length, while those with square faces can soften their features with the gentle sweep of the hair to the side. This versatile style offers a perfect balance between casual and formal, making it a go-to option for various occasions.

NATURAL VOLUME

The “Natural Volume Half-Up, Half-Down Hairstyle” is a trendsetting and effortlessly chic look that celebrates the beauty of natural texture and volume.  Start by parting your hair down the middle or slightly off-center, letting the natural volume frame your face in a flattering way. This contemporary hairstyle embraces the bounce and movement of your locks while offering a stylish and relaxed appearance.

CLEAN 60S ‘DO

Characterized by its polished and elegant demeanor, the Clean 60s ‘Do encapsulates the sophistication that defined the hairstyles of that era. Achieving this look involves meticulously smoothing and straightening your locks with a flat iron, resulting in a sleek finish. Often styled with a middle part, the hair exudes a symmetrical and refined appearance, embodying the essence of 1960s glamor. This versatile hairstyle transcends various occasions, seamlessly transitioning from formal events to chic everyday looks. 

WAVING IRON

This style combines the sophistication of soft waves with the versatility of a partially pulled-back hairdo, creating a stunning and contemporary result. To achieve this hairstyle, start by using a waving iron to impart loose, flowing waves to your hair. This tool is perfect for crafting those relaxed, beach-inspired waves that add a touch of elegance to your locks. Work through sections of your hair, creating waves that frame your face and enhance its natural features.The “Waving Iron Half-Up, Half-Down Hairstyle” strikes the perfect balance between glamour and ease

TEXTURED

This particular style complements the trendy lob (long bob) and adds a touch of flair to your overall appearance. The process is both simple and versatile, making it an ideal choice for various occasions. Begin by dividing the top section of your hair into manageable segments. Take each section and create a twist, then elegantly secure them in place with pins, forming a stylish half-up, half-down arrangement. This technique not only adds volume but also introduces an appealing textured dimension to your hair. For those seeking an extra touch of sophistication, consider incorporating a French braid on one side. 

ACCESSORIZE

This timeless and elegant half-up hairstyle effortlessly combines sophistication with a touch of flair. The voluminous blown-out hair not only exudes a sense of glamor but also adds a luxurious texture to the overall look. The addition of a stylish bow serves as a captivating focal point, elevating the hairstyle to a statement piece. It’s a delightful fusion of classic charm and contemporary style.

PULLED BACK IN A BOW

The “Pulled Back in a Bow” hairstyle is a charming and whimsical look that combines the sleekness of a pulled-back style with the playful elegance of a bow.  This versatile and feminine hairstyle involves gathering the hair and securing it at the back of the head, creating a neat and polished appearance. The distinctive feature is the addition of a bow, which adds a touch of sweetness and sophistication to the overall look. This hairstyle is perfect for a variety of occasions, ranging from casual outings to more formal events.

SNATCH IT UP

Snatch It Up” in the context of a half-up, half-down hairstyle conveys the swift and enthusiastic adoption of this trendy hairdo. This phrase encapsulates the dynamic decision to promptly embrace the chic and adaptable style of a half-up, half-down look. Whether opting for a spontaneous everyday appearance or making a stylish choice for a special occasion, “snatching up” this hairstyle reflects a spirited decision to embrace the trendiness and fashion-forward nature of the half-up, half-down style.

STYLED BUN WITH LOOSE TENDRILS

Although it may seem intricate, recreating the half-up styled bun is relatively straightforward. Start by using your thumbs and forefingers to gather hair from just behind each ear, lifting it in an upward motion to the part line, and then clip the sections to each side. If desired, let a few curls or face-framing pieces fall around the hairline and delicately tease the crown area for added volume. Release the clips, gather the sections, pull them to the back of the head, and twist them around each other once or twice. Adjust the volume in the crown area as needed and secure the sections with bobby pins.

NATURAL CURLS AND VOLUME

Embracing the half-up style enhances the natural texture, offering a versatile and chic look. Gather and lift half of the hair, allowing the curls to cascade in a carefree manner. To maintain the texture, use your fingers and any residual styling product to redefine curls, ensuring a beautifully tousled appearance. This effortless style is perfect for showcasing the unique charm of natural curls, providing a playful and stylish vibe.

CLASSIC BOX BRAIDS

The enduring charm of wearing your hair half-up, half-down is nearly as timeless as the age-old tradition of box braids. Rooted in history, box braids have stood the test of time, evolving into a contemporary and widely embraced style celebrated for its protective and heat-free attributes. This classic choice, coupled with the resilience and adaptability of box braids, reflects a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity. Whether opting for the timeless allure of a half-up, half-down look or embracing the cultural significance of box braids, these styles represent a dynamic connection between the past and present, offering versatility and beauty across centuries of hairstyling.

TOPSY TAIL

 Elevating a half-up, half-down style can be effortlessly achieved with the timeless charm of the classic topsy tail. Transforming a basic ponytail into a stylish statement is as simple as splitting your hair down the middle above the hair tie and flipping the ponytail through that opening. This quick and classic technique not only adds flair to your look but also ensures you’re ready to step out the door in a minute flat. The versatility of the topsy tail highlights its enduring appeal as a go-to styling trick, offering a perfect blend of simplicity and elegance for any occasion.

MOHAWK PARTINGS

 A bold and edgy hairstyling choice that draws inspiration from the iconic Mohawk haircut. This style involves creating a distinct and elevated central section of hair, typically styled in a straight or textured manner, while the hair on the sides is either shaved or closely cropped for a dramatic contrast. he width and length of this central section can vary based on personal preference, allowing for customization and creative expression. Styling products such as gel, wax, or pomade may be used to enhance texture or hold the hair in place.

BEJEWELED TWIST

This style typically involves twisting sections of hair, creating a sophisticated and intricate pattern, while also incorporating various jewels or decorative hairpins to enhance its beauty. To achieve the Bejeweled Twist, the hair is usually divided into sections, and each section is twisted elegantly to create a stunning texture. The twists can be positioned in various ways, such as a central twist, side twists, or a combination of both, depending on the desired look. The Bejeweled Twist is perfect for formal events, weddings, or any occasion where a touch of sophistication and glamor is desired.

CLASSIC THREE-STRAND

For those blessed with thick and heavy locks, the classic three-strand braid serves as a perfect complement to your half-up hairstyle.  Begin by sectioning the upper part of your voluminous mane, leaving the remaining tresses to cascade freely. The beauty of this approach lies in the simplicity of the classic three-strand braid, which not only adds an elegant touch but also alleviates the potential discomfort associated with intricate updos. This approach seamlessly marries the classic appeal of the braid with the practicality of a half-up hairstyle, creating a harmonious balance that suits both casual and more formal occasions.

SOPHISTICATED SIDE SWEEP

Emanating timeless charm and grace, the sophisticated side sweep stands as a refined and elegant hair styling option. This versatile look, achieved by elegantly sweeping the hair to one side, offers a sleek and polished appearance adaptable to diverse hair lengths and textures. Its versatility makes it a fitting choice for a spectrum of occasions, effortlessly transitioning from formal events to everyday chic. Whether paired with casual attire or dressier ensembles, the sophisticated side sweep emerges as a go-to option for those desiring a timeless and sophisticated hairstyle.

BOTTOMS UP

Bottoms Up” takes a whimsical turn when embraced in the realm of half-up, half-down hairstyles. This playful hairstyle harmoniously blends the elements of both up and down hairdos, achieving a delightful balance that exudes both chicness and ease. To bring the “Bottoms Up” half-up, half-down look to life, infuse creativity by incorporating braids, twists, or voluminous waves into the upper section, infusing your overall style with flair and a celebratory spirit. Serving as a lively choice, this hairstyle captures the joy and vibrancy reminiscent of a social toast, translating that festive energy seamlessly into your personal style.

MICRO BRAIDS

Crafting a stunning and intricate look, micro braids in a half-up, half-down hairstyle seamlessly marry the sophistication of braids with the flexibility of a partial updo. The artistry of incorporating micro braids into this style allows for a beautiful blend of intricate detailing and relaxed elegance. From the upper section gracefully adorned with meticulously braided strands to the flowing and loose lower section, this hairstyle showcases the versatility of micro braids and offers a canvas for various styling options. It’s a perfect fusion of refined detailing and the effortless charm of a half-up, half-down look.

SPACE BUNS

The fusion of space buns with the adaptability of a half-up, half-down style delivers a playful and trendy look that effortlessly exudes coolness while providing endless customization possibilities.. This hairstyle serves as a canvas for creative expression, allowing you to experiment with various bun sizes and incorporate additional accessories for a personalized touch. It’s a dynamic and versatile choice that seamlessly blends a touch of whimsy with contemporary style.

THREAD WRAP

Elevating the timeless half-up, half-down style, thread wraps infuse a hint of bohemian charm and playful personality into your look. This versatile and chic aesthetic effortlessly transitions from a laid-back summer day to a stylish night out on the town. The addition of a thread wrap in a half-up, half-down hairstyle not only brings a playful and artistic flair to your hair but also opens the door to a myriad of color and style variations. The result is a chic and customizable choice that suits a range of occasions, allowing you to express your  individuality with ease.

PEARL PINS

Infuse a touch of timeless charm into your half-up, half-down hairstyle with the exquisite allure of pearl pins. These accessories serve as your secret weapon for effortlessly elevating your look with sophistication, romance, and timeless elegance. Whether you’re aspiring for a classic bridal aesthetic, a chic office ensemble, or a playful everyday vibe, let pearl pins become the hallmark of refined glamour in your hair. Their incorporation into a half-up, half-down style not only adds a sophisticated allure but guarantees a timeless and chic appearance suitable for various occasions, spanning from weddings and formal events to a stylish day out.

BUNS ‘N’ BOBS

Buns ‘n’ Bobs,” a fusion of playful buns and short, bobbed sections, presents a fresh and edgy twist to the timeless half-up, half-down style. This innovative approach injects your hair with texture, volume, and a burst of personality, offering surprising versatility that effortlessly transitions from casual outings to formal occasions. The dynamic and youthful vibe of the “Buns ‘n’ Bobs” half-up, half-down hairstyle makes it a perfect choice for various settings, seamlessly infusing a fun and stylish element into your everyday look.

A SIMPLE BOW

Enhance your look with a touch of femininity through the enchanting “A Simple Bow” hairstyle. Begin by gently parting your hair, separating the upper section for styling. Creating the half-up portion is easy – gather the upper strands, leaving soft framing strands, and secure them with a discreet hair tie. Delicately placing it over the tie, turning the ordinary into a visual delight. Adjust its placement for a personal touch – a centered bow or a slightly off-kilter flair, the choice is yours. This hairstyle makes it perfect for casual outings or occasions that crave a touch of playful elegance.

90S TEXTURE

The 90s were a transformative decade for fashion and hair, and the textured half-up, half-down style emerged as an iconic choice for the effortlessly cool crowd. This revival of the look not only pays homage to the laid-back yet dynamic energy of the era but also signals its big and stylish comeback. It’s a trend that seamlessly blends the retro charm of the ’90s with a modern and chic twist, capturing the attention of those who appreciate bold and timeless styles.

SLEEK SIDES

Sleek Sides epitomizes a polished and refined aesthetic, achieved by smoothly styling the hair’s sides for an elegant appearance. This versatile hairstyle relies on styling products like gel or pomade to control flyaways and deliver a smooth, glossy finish. Suitable for a spectrum of occasions, from formal events to everyday elegance, “Sleek Sides” complements various hair lengths and textures. It stands as a timeless choice, offering those seeking sophistication and a well-groomed look a reliable and chic option.

BOHO HAIR WRAP

This relaxed and free-spirited hairstyle effortlessly marries bohemian vibes with the practicality of a half-up, half-down look.. Ideal for casual outings, music festivals, or any occasion where a touch of bohemian charm is welcomed, this hairstyle stands as a versatile and playful choice. It grants you the creative freedom to express your individuality through various wraps and scarves, making it a go-to for those seeking an effortlessly chic and expressive look.

KNOTTED BRAIDS

 Infuse a touch of sophistication into your look with the captivating charm of the Knotted Braids Half-Up, Half-Down Style. This unique and intricate variation on the classic half-up, half-down look seamlessly merges the enchantment of braids with the sophistication of knotted details, resulting in a visually captivating and textured appearance. This hairstyle is well-suited for diverse occasions, effortlessly transitioning from casual outings to more formal events. It not only offers a creative twist on the traditional half-up style but also serves as a canvas for showcasing your personality through the intricate artistry of knotting and braiding details.

TWISTED FISHTAIL

Crafting a simple twist on the sides allows for precise control in framing your face within the confines of a half-up, half-down style. Elevate this elegance by incorporating a fishtail braid beneath the twist, transforming it into a bohemian-inspired summer style. This versatile look seamlessly navigates you through a myriad of occasions, from graduations and weddings to evening BBQs, ensuring you radiate a chic and carefree vibe.

TRIPLE BRAID

Beyond the inherent coolness of this half-up half-down style, the added benefit of showcasing a full head of eccentric braids lies in the exquisite texture you’ll enjoy the next day when unraveling them all. This effortless unraveling not only adds a touch of tousled charm but also imparts a natural and lived-in aesthetic, making it a hairstyle that effortlessly transitions from day to day with a hint of relaxed sophistication.

Pull Through Braid

The pull-through braid offers a stunning, braided appearance without the need for traditional braiding. Start with two ponytails, one below the other, in a classic half-up, half-down style. Divide the upper ponytail into two sections and wrap them around the lower ponytail. Continue this process, creating a cascading effect. This captivating hairstyle resembles a complex braid, yet it’s achieved effortlessly, making it accessible for all skill levels. The pull-through braid adds an intricate touch to your look without requiring advanced styling skills.

Conclusion

A half-up hairstyle effortlessly bridges the gap between everyday sophistication and ready-to-party allure. Its versatility makes it an ideal choice for expressing personality and elevating the ambiance of any event. Whether opting for a sleek and sophisticated half-up style to complement a professional atmosphere or choosing a more voluminous and intricate look for a lively celebration, the half-up hairstyle not only brings convenience but also serves as a symbol of contemporary elegance. In addition to choosing the appropriate hairstyle, it’s also advisable to select a harmonious color. You might consider honey brown, a color favored by many, which adds to the overall appeal.