Soft Power is the defining makeup trend of the season, and these styles demonstrate it.

      Reflecting on past makeup trends, it's easy to get bogged down in minute details such as color bursts, innovative techniques, and flashy formulas. However, many of these trends tend to be short-lived. By 2025, our approach to makeup is evolving into a more holistic mindset. Instead of fixating on minor fads, we want our makeup selections to contribute significantly to our overall aesthetic. Whether opting for a natural look or a soft-focused appearance, the emphasis is on how our makeup enhances our vibe and our feelings. This concept has been emerging since the start of the year, and as summer approaches, it's becoming increasingly prominent. We're calling this makeup movement "soft power." Unlike the bold makeup styles of the past characterized by striking eyeliners, vivid colors, and sharp lines, soft power focuses on a makeup style that fosters a sense of empowerment. These looks need not be overtly dramatic but rather involve slightly bolder choices that help you feel your best self.

      If you're unsure where to begin, explore the soft power makeup styles that are set to define summer 2025. This isn’t about no-makeup makeup; it’s about subtle makeup that exudes strength. Soft power makeup embodies minimalism with an empowering twist. Moving away from the almost invisible looks that can make one feel inferior—especially when comparing ourselves to perfectly polished Instagram models—this style is authentic. It doesn't hide; instead, it showcases your features and helps you feel like the best version of yourself, emphasizing dewy skin, soft pastel colors, glossy lips, and natural lashes.

      "You want a radiant, barely-there complexion," says Jamie Coombes, Dior Makeup International Pro Artist. To achieve this, Coombes suggests layering a glow-enhancing product under a foundation with a natural finish, using concealer only where necessary. Add warmth with a bronzer to deepen the skin tone. For lips, opt for a moisturized yet defined look. Instead of a typical lip liner, consider using lip-contouring products.

      However, the essence of this look lies in the eyes. To maintain a soft yet noticeable appearance, use peachy and pink shades. "In this style, the upper eyelids and lower lash line are brushed with a matte pink from the Diorshow 5 Couleurs in shade Rose Organza," Coombes explains. The finishing touch? Completely bare lashes.

      Soft power makeup can vary greatly; for some, it might lean towards minimalism while for others, it could embrace maximalism. In 2025, we've already seen a resurgence of the smoky eye as part of the soft power movement, and it will continue to gain popularity. Why? Because the smoky eye delivers an unmistakable statement of confidence and boldness. While classic smoky eyes might not fit the "soft" category, the 2025 variant does. Paired with seemingly bare skin and lips, attention is drawn to a striking, diffused eye and voluminous, clumpy lashes.

      For this look, Coombes combines a cream eye shadow stick, powder, and liner. "Use a creamy crayon to line both the waterline and lash line, blending it out with a large eye shadow brush," he advises. Apply Diorshow Maximizer 4D to the top and bottom lashes, followed by Diorshow Overvolume Mascara for extreme volume. "Apply from root to tip for maximum intensity," he notes.

      When aiming for this look, keep the skin smooth, soft, and natural-looking. Utilize a water-based foundation and target concealer application, focusing on areas such as under the eyes, blemishes, and redness around the nose. "Apply bronzer to the cheeks, starting at the temples and sweeping downwards," suggests Coombes. Finally, add a liquid highlighter to the tops of the cheeks and the bridge of the nose.

      With soft power makeup, lashes are crucial. Whether left natural or enhanced with multiple coats of mascara, they can significantly affect how your makeup makes you feel. Pairing bold lashes with a striking red lip can instill a sense of confidence. "For bold lashes, apply a primer followed by a volumizing mascara, like Diorshow Overvolume, on top. Use a matte nude shadow on the eyelids," says Coombes. This matte finish allows the mascara to pop while ensuring the overall eye look remains sophisticated and subtle.

      To complement standout lashes, opt for a striking lip. "Use a red lip liner to blur the lips; overline and then soften with a small brush. Next, apply your red lipstick to the center of the lips straight from the tube and blend with your finger," instructs Coombes. Complete the look with a light dusting of blush to harmonize with the red lip.

      Soft power makeup can also serve as a canvas for creativity, as demonstrated by a special silver eye look. Traditional power looks often mix metallics with sharp lines, yet this silver eye remains