While skincare remains foundational, makeup is experiencing a creative renaissance.
After years dominated by “clean girl” aesthetics, Fall 2026 introduces richer color stories, dramatic textures and renewed appreciation for artistry. Yet, unlike the more-is-more eras of the past, today’s statement makeup feels more intentional and refined.
Blush is emerging as the season’s hero product. Applied higher on the cheekbones and often extending towards the temples, berry-tone blush creates a romantic flush that feels both youthful and sophisticated.
Eyes are equally expressive. Smoky shadows return with a softer, lived-in finish, while metallic silvers, slate grays and cool-toned neutrals replace the warm bronzes that have dominated recent seasons.
Lips are taking a dual approach. Some luxury houses favor softly blurred stains inspired by Korean beauty innovations, while others embrace defined lip liners paired with rich, pigmented berry and wine shades that complement autumn wardrobes.
This fall, beauty insiders are embracing “velvet skin” – a complexion that appears smooth, hydrated, refined and naturally luminous without excessive shine.
The overall message is clear: personality is back.
Dior Backstage Face & Body Foundation, 3N Neutral
Luminous results and a custom-coverage effect. Evens out complexion and blurs imperfections. Available in 42 shades. $45.
YSL Make Me Blush, Berry Bang
Palm-sized powder blush feels lightweight and blurs onto the cheeks for a buildable glam look. Lasts 24 hours. $46.
Victoria Beckham Beauty Eye Wardrobe Multi-Finish Eyeshadow Palette, Night Flash
Buttery-smooth powder formula with buildable, silky shades. Easy to blend with no fallout. $76.
Chanel Rouge Coco, No. 104 Mademoiselle
Long-wear satin lipstick with an utterly effortless glide-on texture for mirrorless application. $53.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Definer, Soft Brown
All-in-one triangular-tipped retractable pencil for defining, filling and detailing eyebrows. Available in 12 shades. $27.
Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Serum
Super serum for deep nightly renewal and unfiltered morning radiance. Promotes smoother, younger and more radiant-looking skin. $85 for 1 oz.
MAC Gently Off Dual-Phase Makeup Remover
Makeup’s worst nightmare. Dual-phase liquid makeup remover with oil and water to dissolve away waterproof mascara and long-wear lip stains. $27.
Burberry Goddess Parfum
A unique gourmand aromatic fragrance built around a powerful trio of vanillas and a raspberry accord. Sophisticated, warm and magnetic. $165.
David Ross is a celebrity skincare and makeup artist with more than two decades of experience in the luxury beauty industry. He began his career working with fashion houses Dolce & Gabbana and Gucci, developing a reputation for polished, modern glamour. His skin-first artistry was refined through collaborations with Dr. Howard Sobel, blending skincare knowledge with high-impact makeup artistry.
Ross has worked with notable clients, including Geena Davis and Paula Abdul. Now based in Long Beach, he continues to work with celebrities and brands and educates on skincare-driven makeup artistry.