"Summer is officially here, and with it comes some of the year’s most exciting makeup trends. This season, beauty enthusiasts are embracing a mix of both bold, vibrant colors and fresh-faced makeup looks, meaning the options for creativity are endless. From the resurgence of colored mascaras to the emphasis on deeply hydrated, glowing skin, this summer’s trends are all about making a statement while keeping things fresh and sophisticated. Plus, some of our favorite beauty brands are rolling out innovative products that make it easier than ever to achieve these looks, ensuring you stay on-trend whether you’re lounging by the pool or attending a summer soirée.
No matter if you prefer a minimalist approach or love to experiment with daring hues, these fun trends offer something for everyone. Ahead, we’re breaking down the hottest makeup trends of summer 2024.
Colored Mascara
Although we aren’t in the early 2000s, colored mascara is back and better than ever. Moving away from the traditional black hue, shades like cobalt blue, electric green, baby pink, and creamy brown are creating ~eye-catching~ looks that are both fun and easy to recreate. One thing we particularly love about this trend is that it effortlessly draws attention to the eyes while keeping the rest of the face fresh and natural, which perfectly aligns with this season’s minimalist yet exciting beauty looks.
Want to add a pop of color to your look? Brands including Half Magic, YSL, and PAT McGRATH LABS have wide ranges of colored mascaras that’ll make your eyes pop.
Pearl Skin
Last year was all about glass skin, but this summer is taking that trend to the next level. Pearl skin, which consists of a luminous, pearlescent complexion, focuses on deeply hydrated skin that appears effortlessly dewy and plump. (The dream, right?) The key to mastering pearl skin is all about using moisturizing serums, hydrating primers, and lightweight foundations that work to enhance your skin’s natural glow. The result? A radiant finish that looks fresh, natural, and expertly sunkissed.
Faux Freckles
Leave it to Hailey Bieber to pave the way for one of this season’s hottest beauty trends: faux freckles. Inspired by little sunspots, beauty enthusiasts are embracing this trend to give their makeup look a natural touch. Whether scattered across the nose—Hailey is the perfect inspo—or boldly dotted across the cheeks, faux freckles are the perfect addition to any summer beauty look. Trust us, they’re as cute as they sound.
Sunset Eyeshadow
Two words: sunset eyeshadow. Yes, this is one of the best trends of the year. Drawing inspiration from the bright, warm hues of a summer sunset, this trend includes mixing a blend of orange, pink, purple, and red hues to create an ombré effect on the eyelids that mimics the colors of the sky.
To achieve the perfect sunset eyeshadow look, start with a base of warm, light shades like peach or soft yellow. Gradually build up the intensity with deeper oranges and reds towards the crease, and finish with rich purples or deep pinks on the outer corners and along the lash line. (Pro tip: Blending is key to creating a seamless transition between colors.) Feel free to get creative!
Colored Contour
Colored contour is here for a good time, not a long time! Embrace this season’s newest trend by transforming the traditional contouring techniques and incorporating vibrant hues like pinks, reds, and oranges. Instead of the typical neutral shades, colored contour uses blush tones to create dimension and enhance the natural shape of the face. Applying blush along the cheekbones, temples, and even across the nose not only adds color but also helps define your features. Perfect for summer, this trend combines the warmth of the season with a fresh, fun take on face sculpting.
Bold Lips with Minimal Face Makeup
Usually, winter is the time to sport a bold lip, but why not try it out for summer? This season, beauty buffs are breaking out their boldest lip colors to make statements. The catch? They’re pairing bold lips with minimal face makeup, striking a pretty balance between being bold and maintaining a fresh, effortless look. (The focus is on letting the lips shine while keeping the eyes and complexion simple and clean.) For best results, try colors like bright reds, deep berries, and dark, moody hues while keeping the rest of your makeup minimal. Think sheer foundations or tinted moisturizers, a touch of mascara, and subtle highlight or contour.
