Winter makeup is shifting toward bold experimentation and nostalgic aesthetics. runways from Gucci to Balenciaga are replacing minimal looks with vivid colors and tactile textures, encouraging a return to playful, childhood-inspired beauty.
The Return of '90s Frost at Balenciaga and Chanel
The "clean girl" aesthetic is taking a backseat to a more personality-driven approach. According to the report, frosty, pearlized finishes seen at Balenciaga, Bluemarine, and Weiderhoeft are signaling a return to the late '90s. This trend isn't just about silver; it extends to champagne, rosy frosts, and deeper metallics like chocolate, plum, and burgundy.
This shift reflects a broader cultural pivot toward "maximalism" in beauty. For years, the internet has been dominated by the "no-makeup makeup" look, but the 2026 winter forecasts suggest a craving for texture and light-reflecting finishes. As noted in the report, Chanel runways have specifically highlighted washes of icy blue and pearlescent white, moving away from the matte neutrals that defined the early 2020s.
'Eyemaxxing' at Givenchy and the Navy Smoky Eye
The term "eyemaxxing" has emerged to describe the bold shapes and high intensity seen on the Givenchy, Antonio Marras, and Kim Shui runways. This trend encourages the use of high-pigment coolrs—like cerulean blue and canary yellow—to create striking, oversized eye looks that prioritize artistic expression over traditional blending.
For those seeking a more wearable version of this intensity, the navy smoky eye is making a comeback. Runways at Gucci, Proenza Schouler, and Valentino have showcased a range from deep denim to soft baby blue. Makeup artists suggest building this look by smudging a dark pencil close to the lash line before layering a dark blue shadow to create depth and a "soft grunge" effect.
The Matte Red Blush and Monochromatic Lips of Elisabetta Franchi
A monochromatic red-on-red look is warming up the season , with Elisabetta Franchi, Matières Fécales, and Litkovska leading the charge. This involves pairing a red eyeshadow with matching red lips, though the report emphasizes using "blurred, bitten reds" and stains rather than a perfectly painted-on lipstick for a more modern, effortless feel.
Complementing this is the "après-ski" cheek, characterized by a matte red or orange-red blush blended across the apples of the cheeks and the bridge of the nose. Unlike the shimmery highlighters of previous years, this look aims to mimic the natural flush of cold weather, creating the illusion that the color is coming from within the skin.
Why Rihanna and Tyla are Bringing Back Face Gems
Sparkle is no longer reserved for the club or the gala. Face gems and glitter have become ubiquitous in 2026,appearing on everyone from Rihanna and Tyla to Eileen Gu and at Zara Larsson concerts. The trend encourages a "fairy princess" approach to beauty, using gems to accent the corners of the eyes or the cheekbones.
To make this high-glam look wearable for daily life, experts suggest using high-impact highlighters on the eyelids and browbone to achieve a gem-like effect without the need for adhesive. This tactile approach to makeup mirrors a wider internet trend of "kidcore," where adults reclaim the joy of childhood hobbies and aesthetics.
The Sheer Skin Base and the Practicality of 'Completionist' Palettes
To balance the intensity of bold eyes and red cheeks, the base is becoming more natural.. The current approach involves spot-concealing blemishes and redness while leaving freckles and skin texture visible, followed by a sheer skin tint to maintain a luminous, healthy finish.
However, some questions remain regarding the accessibility of these looks. While the report mentions "completionists" who use the neglected red shades in their palettes, it doesn't specify which brands are producing the most effective multi-use palettes for this monochromatic trend. Additionally, it remains unclear how these high-intensity "eyemaxxing" looks will be adapted for professional environments outside of the runway.
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