The Opera Aesthetic is Set for 2026—20 Beauty Essentials That Reflect Light-Filled Stages and Plush Velvet Seats.

      Gen Z Says is a bimonthly column that tracks the latest trends in fashion and beauty through the perspective of Who What Wear's Gen Z editors. Anticipate insights about the soon-to-emerge tastemakers, up-and-coming designers, and the shopping and styling preferences from the generation defining the trends. For some, December signals an end. This month is spent reflecting on the past year, celebrating the new one, and recognizing all the positive and negative moments that accompany both. Personally, December also feels like a renewal of my appreciation for the fine arts, whether in performances, museums, or on my reading shelf. I was thrilled to find that Pinterest's 2026 trend predictions for beauty, fashion, and lifestyle featured something called the opera aesthetic, showcasing images of plush theater seats, dimly lit aisles, and bright stages alongside opulent perfume bottles, ethereal hair accessories, and elegantly candlelit makeup. The entire concept evokes the essence of Gaston Leroux's 1910 classic, The Phantom of the Opera.

      "Enter: the opulent party. Elevate the drama with velvet drapes, red roses, and string quartets," states the description beneath Pinterest’s highlighted board. As someone who revels in the grandeur, romance, and intrigue of opera, I found myself curating a new Pinterest board that reflects my interpretation of the trend as a beauty editor. My perspective leans towards the gentler, more whimsical aspects of the trend, capturing the excitement of whispers backstage, dried flower arrangements in dressing rooms, and essential beauty items like soft blush, glittery nail polish, intoxicating floral fragrances, and more. Curious to see the trend through a beauty editor's perspective? Keep reading to discover products that best embody Pinterest's anticipated opera aesthetic and how to make it come alive, whether or not you ever visit a theater or encounter a prima donna.

      Article continues below Candlelit Makeup

      Chantecaille

      Lip Definer in Chic

      Based on the multitude of images flooding my Pinterest homepage just moments after I searched "opera aesthetic," it's clear that the trend embraces everything from juicy, glossy lips to their matte and contoured versions. The Lip Definer pencil promises to give your lips a defined look with its semi-matte, creamy formula, and I particularly love the shade Chic, a deep merlot.

      bareMinerals

      Nourishing Lip Oil in Indulge

      I’ve always preferred finishing my lip looks with a gloss for a dewy effect, usually leaning toward oil for its texture. The BareMinerals Nourishing Lip Oil strikes a balance between both, delivering ultra-hydration with a non-sticky formula made from nine botanical oils and hyaluronic acid for comfort and care. I’m enamored with the sheer burst of color it provides.

      Armani Beauty

      Fluid Sheer Glow Enhancer in Bronze Blush

      For a radiant glow that resembles the warm flickers of candlelight, choose a lightweight enhancer like this one from Armani. It can be used as a highlight or blended with your skincare and foundation for added luminosity; the Fluid Sheer Glow Enhancer blurs imperfections and illuminates the skin with buildable coverage.

      Victoria Beckham Beauty

      Colour Wash Blush Water Tint

      Pinterest's trending opera aesthetic celebrates the romance of the season, and nothing brings the enchantment of the stage to mind quite like this long-lasting, watercolor-inspired liquid blush that gives a natural flush. It offers diffused color that blends seamlessly into the skin using a brush or your fingers, utilizing activated water technology for mineral-rich hydration. I plan to interpret the trend using the shade Vintage Rose, a universally flattering berry mauve.

      Makeup by Mario

      Ethereal Eyes Eyeshadow Palette: Nature

      Timeless Polish

      Essie

      Nail Polish in Odd Squad

      Nothing exudes drama quite like a deep brown manicure. Essie's vegan Nail Polish in Odd Squad has a rich coffee brown hue infused with red undertones, all encapsulated in a creamy formula for flawless application. The brand’s unique easy-glide brush enables quick and even coverage without streaks. This shade has been a favorite of mine for fall and winter, but it's versatile enough for year-round wear.

      CND

      Vinylux Longwear Polish in Married to Mauve

      Moody manicures are naturally elegant, yet there's something special about a cool berry-toned shade like CND's Vinylux Long Wear Polish in Married to Mauve. It’s truly enchanting in the fall and winter seasons. Infused with vitamin E, keratin, and jojoba oil, this long-wear polish nurtures and strengthens nails while ensuring a smooth color application. Moreover, it lasts up to seven days without chipping.

      OPI

      Nail Polish in Kyoto Pearl

      OPI's Kyoto Pearl remains a timeless nail polish shade that never goes out of fashion. The delicate satin white is perfect for upscale occasions as it pairs wonderfully with everything and softly reflects light. In my view, it