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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.

Celebrities with Sunken Eyes: A Closer Look at the Enigmatic Beauty Trend

Sunken eyes have found their way into the realm of beauty trends, captivating the attention of fashion enthusiasts and celebrities alike. This unique aesthetic has become a statement of enigmatic allure, as prominent figures from the entertainment industry embrace this captivating look.  From the red carpets to the big screens, these  celebrities with sunken eyes look like absolute champs. So, get ready to uncover the allure and charm of this standout feature as we take a peek into the world of our beloved A-listers!

Who Embraces Sunken Eyes?

Celebrities from various backgrounds have embraced the mystique of sunken eyes, contributing to its popularity in mainstream fashion and beauty. These individuals use their influence to redefine conventional standards of beauty, embracing uniqueness and individuality. Let’s take a closer look at some notable personalities who have embraced this trend:

  • Angelina Jolie – The iconic actress and humanitarian is known for her captivating eyes, which she enhances with subtle sunken eye makeup. Her smoky eye looks create a mesmerizing depth and intensity that make her features even more alluring.
  • Jared Leto – This multifaceted artist is renowned for his chameleon-like transformations. Leto’s experimentation with sunken eyes adds an ethereal touch to his already enigmatic appearance, leaving fans captivated by his ever-changing persona.
  • Tilda Swinton – Known for her avant-garde style and striking presence, Swinton’s sunken eyes exude an otherworldly charm. Her fearless approach to fashion and beauty has made her an icon in the industry, inspiring others to embrace unique aesthetics.

What Defines Sunken Eyes?

Sunken eyes refer to a specific makeup technique and style that creates the illusion of deeper-set eyes. This technique involves using strategic shading and highlighting to sculpt the eye socket, accentuating its natural contours. By cleverly manipulating light and shadow, sunken eyes give the appearance of a mysterious allure, captivating attention and adding depth to the gaze.

Achieving sunken eyes requires meticulous precision in makeup application, including the use of eyeshadows, liners, and mascaras that complement the desired effect. The result is an intensified look that adds drama and magnetism to one’s overall appearance.

When to Embrace the Sunken Eye Look?

The beauty of sunken eyes lies in its versatility and adaptability to various occasions. Whether for a glamorous red carpet event or a night out on the town, this statement look can enhance any outfit and match any mood. Here are some occasions where embracing sunken eyes can take your style to the next level:

  • Formal Events – Sunken eyes add an air of sophistication and elegance, making them perfect for formal events such as galas, award ceremonies, or weddings. Pair them with a classic red lip and understated attire to create a striking and memorable ensemble.
  • Nightlife and Parties – When hitting the dance floor or enjoying a night of revelry, sunken eyes can help you stand out from the crowd. Enhanced with a touch of shimmer or glitter, this look exudes confidence, drawing attention to your eyes as you let loose and have fun.
  • Fashion Photoshoots – Sunken eyes are a favored choice among fashion photographers and stylists, as they add depth and drama to editorial images. Whether for high fashion spreads or avant-garde concepts, this aesthetic elevates the visual impact of the photographs, making them truly unforgettable.

How to Create a Sunken Eye with Makeup?

  • Prep and Prime – Begin by prepping your eyelids with an eyeshadow primer to ensure long-lasting results. This will create a smooth canvas for the subsequent application.
  • Eyeshadow Selection – Choose three shades of eyeshadow: a light neutral shade, a medium-toned contour shade, and a deeper shade for added depth. The contour shade should be slightly cooler than your skin tone.
  • Shading and Blending – Apply the contour shade to the crease of your eyelid, extending it slightly beyond the outer corner. Blend it well using a fluffy brush to soften any harsh lines.
  • Deepen the Socket – Using the deeper shade, apply it to the outer corner of the crease, creating a subtle gradient. Blend this shade carefully to maintain a seamless transition between colors.
  • Highlight the Inner Corner – Apply the light neutral shade to the inner corner of your eyes. This will brighten the area and create contrast, enhancing the appearance of sunken eyes. Blend the highlight shade softly to ensure a natural-looking finish.
  • Eyeliner and Mascara – Line your upper lash line with a black or dark brown eyeliner, making it slightly thicker towards the outer corner to elongate the eyes. Finish the look with a few coats of volumizing mascara on both the upper and lower lashes to add definition and intensity.
  • Finishing Touches – To complete the sunken eye look, consider adding false lashes for added drama and depth. Opt for lashes that are longer and fuller towards the outer corners to create a lifted effect.

Tips for Perfecting Sunken Eyes

Makeup strategies for sunken eyes often focus on adding volume and brightness, whereas celebrities with long philtrum might prioritize techniques that balance their lower face proportions for a harmonious look, highlighting their unique features.

  • Blending is Key: Proper blending is crucial when recreating the sunken eye look. Use fluffy brushes to blend the eyeshadow seamlessly for a natural transition from light to dark shades.
  • Experiment with Colors: While neutral tones are commonly used for sunken eyes, don’t be afraid to play with different color combinations to add a unique twist. Deep jewel tones like emerald green or navy blue can create an intriguing variation on the traditional sunken eye look.
  • Eyeshadow Placement: Focus on applying the deeper shades in the crease and outer corner, gradually building up intensity. This will create the illusion of depth and dimension.
  • Highlighting: Utilize a light shade to highlight the inner corner and brow bone. This will draw attention to the center of the eyes and enhance the overall effect.
  • Practice and Patience: Achieving the perfect sunken eye look requires practice. Take your time, experiment with different techniques, and don’t be discouraged if it takes a few attempts to master the art.

Best Products for Sunken Eyes Makeup

To achieve the desired effect, using high-quality makeup products is essential. Here are some top recommendations for creating captivating sunken eyes:

  • Eyeshadow Palette: Opt for a versatile eyeshadow palette that includes a range of matte shades suitable for creating depth and contour. Some popular palettes for achieving sunken eyes include the Anastasia Beverly Hills Modern Renaissance Palette and the Huda Beauty Desert Dusk Eyeshadow Palette.
  • Eyeliner: Choose a long-lasting and highly pigmented eyeliner to define the upper lash line and give your eyes added intensity. The Kat Von D Tattoo Liner and the Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner are excellent choices.
  • Mascara: Look for a volumizing mascara that provides both length and curl to enhance your lashes. The Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara and Benefit Cosmetics Roller Lash Mascara are renowned for their dramatic effects.
  • False Lashes: Consider adding false lashes to amplify the impact of your sunken eye look. Brands like Ardell and Velour Lashes offer a wide range of styles to suit different preferences.

Remember, finding the right products for your needs may require some experimentation. Don’t hesitate to try out different brands and formulas until you discover the ones that work best for you.

Conclusion

Sunken eyes have become a captivating trend in the world of makeup, offering an alluring and mysterious aesthetic. By understanding the techniques, tips, and products required to achieve this look, you can confidently embrace your unique style and create captivating sunken eyes that command attention. Whether you’re attending a special event or simply want to express your creativity, sunken eyes allow you to make a bold statement with your eye makeup. Embrace the depth, intensity, and allure of sunken eyes to showcase your individuality and stand out from the crowd.

FAQs 

  1. Can anyone achieve the sunken eye look? The sunken eye look can be achieved by anyone who wishes to experiment with their eye makeup. However, it’s important to adapt the technique to suit your specific eye shape and facial features.
  2. Are there any specific face shapes that complement sunken eyes? Sunken eyes can complement various face shapes, but individuals with more prominent brow bones may find this technique particularly flattering, as it enhances the natural contours of the eye area.
  3. How can I make my sunken eyes appear more prominent? To make your sunken eyes appear more prominent, you can use a white or nude-colored eyeliner on your waterline to create the illusion of larger eyes. Additionally, applying a lighter eyeshadow shade on the center of the lid can help draw attention to the eyes and make them appear more open and awake.
  4. Are there any potential drawbacks or concerns with the sunken eye trend? While the sunken eye trend can be visually striking and captivating, it’s essential to consider individual preferences and suitability. Some individuals may feel that this technique makes their eyes appear smaller or accentuates dark circles.