Not Red, Not Pink—This '90s Blush Trend Is Returning in 2026

      Although I enjoy trying out trending beauty hacks and new products occasionally, I’m consistently attracted to classic and refined makeup styles. This preference naturally extends to my choice of blush, where I lean towards understated shades like brown and burgundy rather than vibrant colors. Fortunately, there’s a new blush trend that appeals to stylish individuals, perfectly balancing a fresh vibe for 2026 with a timeless quality that fits smoothly into my classic makeup routine. You might recognize this trend from ’90s makeup styles: the nude blush.

      Victoria Beckham sported nude blush in 1998. (Image credit: Tim Roney/Getty Images) With the resurgence of capri pants, thin eyebrows, and low-rise jeans, it’s evident that 2026 is all about ‘90s nostalgia. However, the revival of nude blush captivates me more than any of these trends. It accentuates your natural skin tone without appearing excessive or pushing you outside your comfort zone, yielding a healthy, natural flush on your cheeks. Moreover, it complements every makeup look, from a striking red lip to the everyday “no-makeup” look. Plus, this flattering blush trend will always remain stylish, even for many years ahead. For those with deeper skin tones like mine, a nude blush can be represented as a dark brown or rich mocha shade, yet there are various options available to suit all skin tones and undertones.

      (Image credit: Who What Wear UK) Personally, I’m planning to embrace this fashionable blush trend through the autumn and winter months. If you feel the same, continue scrolling to explore and purchase the top nude blushes suitable for every skin tone.

      **Best Nude Blushes, According to a Beauty Writer**

      **Best Overall:** MAC Cosmetics Skinfinish Colourstruck Blush (£28)

      **Best Liquid Blush:** Nars Insatiable Liquid Blush (£36)

      **Best Cream Blush:** Merit Beauty Flush Balm (£26)

      **Best Powder Blush:** BareMinerals Gen Nude Powder Blush (£27)

      1. **MAC Cosmetics Skinfinish Colourstruck Blush**

      **Best Overall**

      **Brand:** MAC Cosmetics

      **Product:** Skinfinish Colourstruck Blush in Antique Velvet

      **Available Nude Shades:** Melba, Sunbasque, Velvet Teddy, Raizin The Roof, Film Noir Buff, Antique Velvet, Babygirl, Gingerly, Copportone, Cheeky Chilli, Peachtwist

      **Formula:** Soft-focus powder

      **Finish:** Natural-matte or radiant (varies by shade)

      **Coverage:** Medium (buildable)

      **Pros:** Extensive range of nude shades suitable for diverse skin tones

      **Cons:** May require additional skin preparation for those with dry skin

      It’s no surprise that MAC Cosmetics leads in championing the ‘90s nude blush trend. With 29 shades available (including 11 nude options), it’s easy to understand the social media buzz around this blush. After seeing rave reviews on my TikTok For You Page, I decided to try it out and I’m enamored with the blurring effect, even in the shades that offer a more radiant finish. It’s the ideal second-skin blush to complement the soft-matte makeup looks I plan to wear come early autumn. Just a tip if you have dry skin like me: make sure to prep your skin adequately.

      2. **Merit Beauty Flush Balm**

      **Best Cream Formula**

      **Brand:** Merit Beauty

      **Product:** Flush Balm in Terracotta

      **Available Nude Shades:** Bespoke, Fox, Postmodern, Persimmon, Terracotta, Archival, Beverly Hills

      **Formula:** Cream

      **Finish:** Dewy

      **Coverage:** Sheer

      **Pros:** Easy-to-apply, buildable formula that flatters various skin tones

      **Cons:** Sheer, lightweight formula may not last all day

      If you're a regular reader of Who What Wear, you’re likely aware of our love for Merit’s Flush Balm due to its dewy and healthy finish. With seven nude shades available, this blush caters to a wide array of skin tones and is enriched with vitamin E for added hydration. This allows for seamless blending, resulting in a naturally radiant look. While its creamy texture means it may not stay put as long as other blushes, its portability makes reapplication easy, so I still enjoy using it.

      3. **Nars Insatiable Liquid Blush**

      **Best Liquid Formula**

      **Brand:** Nars

      **Product:** Insatiable Liquid Blush in Double Dare

      **Available Nude Shades:** All Access, Brash, Double Dare, Que Calor, Behave, Sex Appeal

      **Formula:** Liquid

      **Finish:** Satin

      **Coverage:** Medium to full

      **Pros:** Highly-pigmented and long-lasting

      **Cons:** Dries quickly, allowing less time for blending

      For liquid blush enthusiasts, Nars