Believe Me, These 6 Beauty Trends Will Be Making a Significant Return This Summer

      If the current weather is any indication, summer has truly arrived. Sandals are being worn, rosé is abundant, and my SPF is already hard at work. However, if you’re reading this article, you’re not interested in those details. Instead, you’re looking to find out more about summer beauty trends. While researching the most prominent looks for the upcoming season (which is part of my job), I noticed a significant theme connecting all the latest hair, nail, and makeup trends. The theme? Comeback beauty trends. It seems we’re fully embracing nostalgia, with a wide array of summer beauty looks making their return. As someone who grew up in the '90s, I have to admit I’m quite excited about this. In fact, while writing this piece, I was flooded with nostalgia. From shimmering chrome nails to crimped waves, these trends are a refined version that demonstrate comeback beauty trends can be just as impactful as the next emerging trend. Below, I've compiled a list of the most notable summer beauty trends returning this year, so continue scrolling to find out more...

      6 Summer Beauty Trends Making a Comeback in 2026

      1. Mermaid Waves

      This trend has been on the rise for a while, but summer is the time when mermaid waves will take the spotlight. I used to crimp my hair frequently as a teenager, making this look particularly nostalgic for me. Fortunately, hair tools have improved since my school days, allowing you to create a more natural-looking mermaid wave that appears effortlessly cool and beachy.

      Get the Look:

      GHD Wave Triple Barrel Hair Waver

      This is my go-to tool for mermaid waves this season.

      If you have naturally wavy hair, enhance your look with a lightweight texture mist.

      2. 90s Lips

      Deep brown lip liner reminiscent of the '90s was a major trend this winter, and it seems to be transitioning into the summer months, which I really like. Combine it with a lighter lip gloss in the center of your lips for added style points this season.

      Get the Look:

      Fenty Beauty Trace'd Out Pencil Lip Liner Brown'd Out

      This gorgeous deep brown shade from Fenty Beauty comes in a waterproof, long-lasting formula ideal for the warm weather.

      Dior Addict Lip Maximizer Opal

      This gloss brings all the Y2K vibes.

      3. Summer Shimmer

      Shimmery nails are back this summer! Do you remember those icy, frosty, pearlescent manicures from the early 2000s? They've returned in the form of a sheer, shimmery manicure that feels playful yet sophisticated for the upcoming season.

      Get the Look:

      Not only does this polish provide a shimmery effect, but it also helps repair and strengthen the nails underneath.

      Essie Nail Polish Pearly White Shimmer

      A pearly white is a summer classic you can't go wrong with.

      4. Terracotta Tones

      Terracotta tones were highly popular in the '90s, and after observing some of my favorite celebrity beauty looks lately, I’ve noticed they’re making a comeback. This warm color palette creates a beautiful sun-kissed glow, so it’s no wonder that top makeup artists are reaching for terracotta bronzers, blushes, and lipsticks this summer.

      Get the Look:

      Guerlain Terracotta Natural Healthy Glow Powder

      Guerlain's powder will leave your complexion looking radiant.

      Summer Fridays Blush Butter Balm Toasted Terracotta

      I think this might become my go-to blush for the summer.

      5. Butterfly Layers

      I remember discussing butterfly layers in 2023, and it seems the hair trend has made a swift return this summer, with the choppy style appearing everywhere on my Instagram feed. It’s a wonderful nod to the '90s, and for a polished finish, I suggest using your favorite hot brush to add volume and bounce.

      Get the Look:

      Hair by Sam Mcknight Cool Girl Barely There Texture Hair Mist

      6. Maximalist Mani

      Say goodbye to understated luxury nails—maximalist manicures are back in full force this season. Much like in fashion, vibrant colors and bold nail art are being embraced with enthusiasm for summer, and I've already started saving my favorite looks for my next appointment.

      Get the Look:

      Mylee Artiste Nail Brush Kit

      Nail brushes are essential for achieving maximalist nail art.