I've Conducted the Research—Experts Recommend These 7 Most Fashionable Makeup Trends for Summer.

      It's official: with rising temperatures, summer has made its entrance, bringing a new wave of makeup trends that experts describe as some of the most stylish and easiest to wear yet. Speaking with top makeup artists, including Jamie Coombes, Dior Beauty's international backstage makeup artist, Aimee Connolly, founder of Sculpted By Aimee, and Nars senior artist Jen Lyons, they disclosed that while last summer focused on clean-girl minimalism, summer 2026 is heading toward a more laid-back and practical approach. This season embraces nostalgic makeup trends—think '90s contour, shellac-like lips, humidity-resistant pastel eyeshadows, and streamlined routines that can be quickly done in the back of a taxi on the way to the beach club or bar. Interested in learning more? Below, we've compiled the top summer makeup trends to mark on your calendar from June to September.

      1. Playful Pastels

      Pastel makeup is emerging as this season’s most beautiful trend, providing a softer, fresher way to wear color. Over the past few months, red carpets have seen washes of lilac and powder blue for good reason. "Soft pastels in cool shades of blue and lilac can elevate your makeup look," explains Coombes. For a quick and easy way to achieve this style, skip the powders or eyeshadow palettes and choose an eyeshadow stick. "These are super easy to apply and deliver the perfect balance of color and sheen," adds Coombes.

      Dior

      Diorshow Flash Stick

      "This flash stick has been my essential at the Cannes Film Festival this year, providing lasting color throughout the day," says Coombes.

      In addition to a long-lasting color that lasts up to 24 hours, the pointed applicator tip allows for easy wing application or added definition when you need precision.

      2. Lacquered Lips

      "While matte lips come and go, soft, glossy, hydrated lips feel much more on-trend for summer," says Connolly, noting that there’s a craving for comfort, shine, and a more effortless look. "Gloss-balm hybrids are perfect because they provide a fresh, juicy finish while remaining wearable," she explains.

      Fenty Beauty

      Gloss Bomb Ice Cooling Lip Luminizer in Melon Chillz

      To ensure lacquered lips last all day, start with a hydrating lip balm like Sculpted By Aimee Hydralip, followed by this high-shine gloss. The XXL wand allows for a one-swipe application, and the fruity scents add a bit of enjoyment to every use.

      Tom Ford

      Slim Lip Color Shine

      If you prefer your lacquered lips with a touch of color, this option is ideal.

      3. Radiant Skin

      While glass skin looks stunning on social media, it doesn't always work in real life, which is why it's important to enhance your skin's natural glow, shares Coombes. Connolly concurs, remarking that "glow is becoming more intentional; rather than a uniform shimmer, the focus is on highlighting areas like the inner corners of the eyes and just beneath the brows. This creates a refined, editorial look that remains wearable and flattering on various skin types and ages."

      Rare Beauty

      Silky Touch Highlighter Enlighten

      This glistening pressed highlighter gives a radiant finish when applied to the cheeks, eyes, and nose, providing that stunning filter effect without appearing overly done.

      Dior

      Backstage Airflash Mist

      Set your glow with this lightweight mist, designed to establish an invisible barrier that keeps your makeup looking fresh in the heat. Infused with hyaluronic acid, it offers that post-workout, fresh-skin radiance without needing a gym session.

      4. Monochromatic

      "Glossy, playful finishes in soft-focus shades of berry and rosy pink contribute to a monochromatic look that replaces heavy glam," says Coombes. The beauty of this style is its lightness, allowing it to withstand the heat while giving the skin a healthy, just-flushed appearance. Multitasking formulas shine in this context, adds Connolly. "They can be used on the face, lips, and eyes, making the getting-ready process simpler without sacrificing results."

      Lisa Eldridge

      Velatura Balm Dewy Lip & Cheek Stick in Rose Madder

      Lisa Eldridge masterfully creates makeup looks that feel effortlessly cohesive, and this versatile stick delivers just that—a fresh, monochromatic splash of color in moments. No precision or mirror is needed, making it incredibly easy to use.

      Pleasing

      Big Lip and Cheek Tint Peachy Cheeked

      With a beeswax base, this lip and cheek stick provides a beautiful wash of color while helping to retain moisture, making it ideal for dry skin.

      5. '90s Contour

      Although bronzing and sculpting products always gain popularity in summer, this year's key difference lies in the finish: think less Kardashian-style contour and more '90s