I Recently Consulted the Experts, and Here Are the 6 Fall Makeup Color Trends You Should Be Aware Of.
When it comes to seasonal makeup trends, autumn holds a special place in my heart. I particularly love the shift from pastels to darker color palettes featuring browns, terracotta, plums, and deep reds—there's just something about an autumn lip that I can’t resist. My blushes and eyeshadows also undergo a transformation, with deeper shades and richer textures becoming the focus. Just as the season brings back my trench coat and leather jacket, my makeup evolves to sync with my wardrobe.
Martyna Parzniewska, a regional makeup artist at Armani Beauty, notes that "This season sees a fresh approach with textures and application: blurred, velvet lips instead of sharp lines, glossy lids in darker shades, and monochromatic styles that utilize a single color family across eyes, cheeks, and lips." She adds, "We're also seeing a rise in softer, muted tones (like taupes and mauves) as an alternative to the usual vibrant autumn palette, providing a more contemporary and wearable option." NARS field trainer Eliana Cavallo describes it as "the TikTok era of blending aesthetics—a hint of 'clean girl' and a touch of 'mob wife', layered together to create something new."
If you're looking to refresh your makeup bag in line with the latest autumn trends, here's your ultimate guide, complete with expert insights from leading makeup artists.
**What Are This Year's Top Autumn Makeup Trends?**
"The smoky eye is a classic for autumn, but this year, a softer smudged liner and tight-lining pay homage to '90s grunge," states Jamie Coombes, Dior Makeup International Pro Artist. "I love using the Diorshow Stylo to achieve this effect," he adds. Coombes explains that "In the cooler months, bronzer remains the go-to for warmth. Whether cream or powder, it provides an instant warm glow. Bronzers like Dior Forever Nude Bronze can be layered with blush for a duo-color effect."
He also observes that, for 2025, "complexions are becoming more blurred with a satin, soft-focus finish rather than strictly matte or dewy." "We will also see more natural cool tones for the eyes, contrasting the warmer traditional browns. Eyeliner is adopting darker wine shades and burgundies," he notes.
1. **Mocha Mousse**
When it comes to browns, mocha-inspired hues shine in autumn. "Mocha offers a softer sculpting option, warming the skin and framing the eyes effortlessly. Think of it as 'latte makeup' for fall—neutral and flattering," says Cavallo. Parzniewska adds, "This soft, neutral brown complements most skin tones and serves beautifully as an everyday shade." It can work well for both minimalist styles and more dramatic looks, especially when paired with brown liner.
2. **Bordeaux Red**
Bordeaux red is an elegant and timeless statement choice, especially when coordinated with matching nails. "This shade embodies the ultimate classic autumn lip, adding sophistication and drama. To modernize it, try a blurred stain instead of a defined lip line or lightly tap it on the cheeks for a wine-flushed look," recommends Parzniewska. Cavallo also suggests using this color on the eyes, saying, "It transforms a basic look into something striking, adding elegance with a vampy twist."
3. **Pumpkin Spice**
No autumn color trends would be complete without the iconic pumpkin spice. This soft, warm shade can instantly enhance any look. "Pumpkin spice incorporates terracotta, warm oranges, and spice tones, creating a cozy warmth for your makeup," explains Coombes. He adds that peachy nude shades can be layered with bronzer for a slightly flushed finish. Parzniewska notes, "Orange-based tones can be particularly eye-catching as bold matte eyeshadow or softened as a burnt orange blush for a cozy, sunlit glow."
4. **Olive Moss**
Less bold than traditional greens, olive-toned makeup is a perfect option for those wanting to explore color without being overwhelmed. Parzniewska remarks, "Olive serves as a chic, modern neutral." "Softly smudged on the eyes, it nods to the grunge revival while remaining polished. It's an unexpected yet refined choice," she adds. Coombes shares, "Olive moss reminds me of forest green—earthy yet vibrant. It's particularly striking on hazel and brown eyes, enhancing amber tones."
5. **Vintage Mauve**
A beloved shade that works across seasons, mauve is a reliable selection for both everyday and bold makeup. "This romantic, dusty purple injects softness while maintaining a seasonal feel. It looks stunning as a monochromatic choice—try it on both lips and cheeks—or as a transition shade that blends seamlessly into deeper eye colors," Parzniewska recommends. Cavallo notes that on lips, it provides that viral 'your lips but darker'
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I Recently Consulted the Experts, and Here Are the 6 Fall Makeup Color Trends You Should Be Aware Of.
From mocha brown to bordeaux red.
