The summer heat has many perks but also downsides. We have officially entered the time of the season when we don't really know what to wear or what summer makeup look to go for.
Comfort and breathability are key factors to take into account when planning your summer looks, both when it comes to fashion and beauty. With emphasis on SPF and, you know, not sweating your makeup off, summer makeup ideas may feel sparse at the moment — but there's plenty of inspiration if you look hard enough for it. And luckily, we already did that for you.
For ease and comfort, we've compiled some of the best summer makeup looks seen on your favorite celebrities over the past couple of months to give you some inspiration for what to wear the rest of the season. As we head into late summer, keeping these looks in rotation will help you get through the season. Scroll on to see nine of our favorite summer makeup looks and how to incorporate them into your routines!
1. Blush Combos
We just can’t get enough of blush. Last year, we layered on two different types, thanks to Patrick Ta. Now, we’re layered on two different colors. Just like lip combos, blush combos are trending. Both Sabrina Carpenter and Gigi Hadid have already shared their combos. But if you’re looking to get a little creative, try your own interpretation of the TikTok-viral sunset blush trend.
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2. Neutrals
In the summer, we typically gravitate towards bold colors. This year, we’re seeing neutrals continue to hold their popularity, too, with celebs like Cara Delevigne and Anya Taylor-Joy opting for Earth-toned hues in their summer looks. Since makeup trends have favored softer, lighter looks recently, it makes total sense that neutral makeup is being embraced too.
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3. Skip the Liner
One way to avoid smudged makeup this summer is to skip a step altogether, especially eyeliner. The no-makeup makeup trend gives us the perfect excuse to put down the pencils this summer. That doesn’t mean your makeup has to fall flat, though! To still get a bold eye look, opt for a shimmery shadow in a color that compliments your lipstick and blush.
4. '90s Nostalgia
Nostalgic trends aren’t quite finished yet. While thin brows, lip liner, and other makeup trends have already had their moment, we’re seeing more all-encompassing ‘90s looks. This time around, it’s less about one bold element and more about the vibe instead. The combo can be quite simple — doll-like blush, a bright lip, and subtle eye makeup — but the key is to frame it with the perfect accessory. Thin frames like Rosé’s Bayonetta glasses or a silk scarf like Megan Thee Stallion’s will do the trick.
5. Body Shimmer
Another retro trend we’re loving is body shimmer. Who says makeup is only for your face? Add a little glitter to your neck, shoulders, and arms for a more dynamic look that will make your outfit pop. Just look at Jennie Kim for some body shimmer inspiration!
6. Popsicle Lips
Lip gloss continues to trend! To give it a special summer twist, opt for an ultra-glossy and super-pigmented pick that will make your lips look like you just finished eating a popsicle. To really get the effect, add a darker color to the middle of your lips and smudge out your liner as you would for Douyin makeup.
8. Sunkissed Glow Blush
If you haven’t gotten the chance to get some sun (while wearing SPF, of course), no worries! The perfect blush placement can give you that look. Just place a bright color on the tops of your cheeks. For a stronger effect, you can even place some over the bridge of your nose. Both Hailey Bieber and Millie Bobby Brown have given us tutorials on how to achieve the look.
9. Embrace the Glow
While the cloud skin trend influenced the spring, summer is all about embracing the glow. Let your base makeup shine by ensuring you have moisturized, protected skin. A thin layer of skin tint or sheer foundation and a makeup spatula can help you achieve the look.
