Introduction
Do you ever feel like your makeup routine falls flat in the colder months? As the weather changes, so do the demands on our skin and makeup. Winter brings dry air and lower temperatures, making it harder to keep that glow and fresh look all day long. But don’t worry, winter makeup doesn’t have to be dull! Whether you’re looking for a bold holiday statement or a cozy everyday look, I’ve got 25 trendy winter makeup looks to help you stay flawless all season long.
25 Cool Winter Makeup Looks
1. Frosted Lids
Add a wintry touch to your makeup with frosted lids. Use shimmery white or silver eyeshadow to give your eyes a fresh, icy glow, perfect for capturing the essence of winter.
To create makeup look:
- Start with clean, moisturized eyelids.
- Apply a light primer to help the shadow stay on longer.
- Use a soft brush to put a shimmery white or silver eyeshadow on your eyelids, covering the entire lid.
- Gently blend the edges for a smooth finish.
- Finish with mascara to make your lashes stand out.
2. Bold Red Lips
A timeless winter classic, bold red lips add instant glam to any look. Whether you’re attending a holiday party or just out shopping, a bright red lipstick will always make a statement.
To create makeup look:
- Moisturize your lips with a lip balm to prevent dryness.
- Line your lips with a matching red lip liner to define the shape.
- Apply a red lipstick evenly across your lips.
- Blot with a tissue for a long-lasting look.
- For extra shine, add a bit of clear gloss on top.
3. Smokey Eyes with a Twist
Elevate your smokey eyes by incorporating deep greens or navy blues instead of the usual blacks and grays. This twist gives a festive and modern vibe while maintaining that sultry look.
To create makeup look:
- Prime your eyelids with a base eyeshadow primer.
- Apply a dark green or navy eyeshadow to the outer corners of your eyes.
- Blend the color inward with a clean brush to soften the edges.
- Add a lighter shade to the center of the eyelid for contrast.
- Finish with eyeliner and a coat of mascara.
4. Dewy Winter Glow
Combat the dull, dry skin of winter with a dewy finish. Use a hydrating foundation and highlighter to create that lit-from-within glow, making your skin look fresh and radiant despite the cold.
To create makeup look:
- Start with a hydrating face cream to keep skin moisturized.
- Apply a lightweight foundation with a sponge for a natural finish.
- Use a liquid highlighter on the tops of your cheekbones, nose, and brow bone.
- Blend the highlighter with your fingers for a soft, glowing effect.
- Set everything with a light mist of setting spray.
5. Plum Lips
Dark plum lips are bold and edgy, perfect for making a statement in the winter. They complement both minimal makeup and more dramatic looks for an effortlessly chic appearance.
To create makeup look:
- Prep your lips with a gentle scrub to remove any dry skin.
- Apply a rich plum lip liner to outline your lips.
- Fill in the lips with a matching plum lipstick.
- Gently press a tissue on your lips to remove any excess product.
- Add a dab of lip gloss in the center for extra dimension.
6. Glitter Eyeliner
Swap out your standard black eyeliner for something a bit more festive—glitter eyeliner! It adds sparkle to your look without being over-the-top, making it ideal for holiday events.
To create makeup look:
- Prime your eyelids with a smooth base.
- Use a fine-tipped brush to apply a line of glitter eyeliner along your upper lash line.
- Let it dry completely to avoid smudging.
- Add mascara to lengthen your lashes.
- Keep the rest of your makeup simple to let the glitter stand out.
7. Soft Pink Cheeks
Winter may be cold, but your cheeks can still look rosy! Soft pink blush gives your complexion a healthy, youthful flush that mimics the natural glow of having just come in from the cold.
To create makeup look:
- After applying foundation, pick a soft pink blush.
- Smile and gently apply the blush to the apples of your cheeks.
- Blend the blush upward toward your temples for a natural look.
- For a little extra glow, add a touch of highlighter to your cheekbones.
- Finish with a light setting powder to hold the look.
8. Matte Foundation
Matte foundation is a must for winter, especially for those with oily skin. It helps combat shine while providing long-lasting coverage in the chilly months.
To create makeup look:
- Start with a primer to smooth out your skin.
- Choose a matte foundation and apply it evenly with a brush or sponge.
- Use a concealer to cover any blemishes or dark spots.
- Set your foundation with a translucent powder to reduce shine.
- Add a bit of contour to define your cheekbones.
9. Berry Lips
Berry-colored lips are a rich and versatile option for winter. From deep raspberry to blackberry, these shades give a cozy and festive feel while complementing various skin tones.
To create makeup look:
- Exfoliate your lips with a soft scrub.
- Apply a dark berry lip liner to outline your lips.
- Fill in your lips with a berry-toned lipstick.
- Gently press your lips together to even out the color.
- Blot with a tissue and reapply for a richer finish.
10. Gold Highlighter
Add a touch of luxury to your winter look with a gold highlighter. It gives a soft, warm glow that contrasts beautifully with the cold weather.
To create makeup look:
- After applying foundation, take a gold highlighter.
- Lightly dust it on the tops of your cheekbones.
- Apply some on the bridge of your nose and cupid’s bow.
- Blend it well with your fingers or a small brush.
- For an extra touch, apply some highlighter to your brow bone.
11. Nude Makeup Look
For those who prefer simplicity, the nude makeup look focuses on neutral tones. Use soft browns and beige shades to create an understated yet polished look that’s perfect for everyday wear.
To create makeup look:
- Apply a light base of foundation to even out your skin.
- Use a neutral-toned eyeshadow palette.
- Sweep a soft brown or beige shade over your eyelids.
- Keep your lips soft with a nude lipstick or gloss.
- Add just a touch of mascara to your lashes.
12. Winged Eyeliner with Metallic Shadow
Take your winged eyeliner up a notch by pairing it with metallic eyeshadow. The combination of sharp liner and shimmering shadow is both modern and striking.
To create makeup look:
- Start by applying a light metallic shadow to your lids.
- Use a black liquid eyeliner to draw a sharp wing on your upper lash line.
- Make sure the wing extends slightly outward for a dramatic effect.
- Curl your lashes and add mascara for extra definition.
- Keep the rest of your face makeup minimal for balance.
13. Mauve Tones
Mauve is the ultimate winter color, offering a balance between pink and purple. Incorporate mauve eyeshadows, blushes, or lipsticks into your routine for a subtle, yet sophisticated look.
To create makeup look:
- Use a mauve blush for a soft flush of color on your cheeks.
- Apply a mauve-toned eyeshadow to your eyelids.
- Line your lips with a mauve lip liner.
- Fill in your lips with a matching lipstick.
- Gently blend all the colors for a cohesive look.
14. Glossy Lips
Glossy lips aren’t just for summer! A clear or light pink gloss gives your lips a plump, hydrated appearance, adding a youthful glow to your overall makeup.
To create makeup look:
- Start with a lip balm to moisturize your lips.
- Apply a lip liner that matches your natural lip color.
- Choose a light pink or clear lip gloss.
- Swipe it across your lips for a shiny finish.
- Reapply as needed throughout the day.
15. Bold Brows
Winter makeup is all about structure, and bold brows frame the face perfectly. Opt for brow gels or pomades to create defined, full brows that balance the softer winter color palette.
To create makeup look:
- Brush your eyebrows upward using a spoolie.
- Use an eyebrow pencil or gel to fill in any sparse areas.
- Follow the natural shape of your brows for a fuller look.
- Set them in place with a brow gel.
- Keep the rest of your makeup soft to balance the bold brows.
16. Burgundy Eyeshadow
Burgundy is a beautiful alternative to traditional smokey eye colors for winter. It adds warmth and depth to the eyes, making it ideal for the colder months.
To create makeup look:
- Apply an eyeshadow primer to your lids.
- Use a fluffy brush to apply burgundy eyeshadow all over your eyelid.
- Blend it well into the crease for a seamless finish.
- Add a lighter color to the inner corners of your eyes.
- Finish with mascara for fuller lashes.
17. Monochromatic Makeup
Monochromatic makeup uses the same color family for your eyes, cheeks, and lips. Stick to soft browns, taupes, or peachy tones to create a unified and harmonious winter look.
To create makeup look:
- Choose a color like peach or soft pink.
- Apply the same shade on your eyes using an eyeshadow.
- Sweep the matching blush onto your cheeks.
- Use a similar lip color to tie the look together.
- Blend all areas to create a cohesive effect.
18. Cool-Toned Contour
For a more dramatic winter look, use cool-toned contour shades. These greyish-brown tones mimic natural shadows, giving your face a sculpted and sharp appearance.
To create makeup look:
- Use a cool-toned contour powder or cream.
- Apply it under your cheekbones to create shadows.
- Blend it out toward your hairline for a natural look.
- Apply contour along your jawline and nose for extra definition.
- Set everything with a light translucent powder.
19. Soft Smudged Eyeliner
Instead of harsh lines, go for a soft, smudged eyeliner. This relaxed look is perfect for daytime winter activities, giving your eyes definition without the sharpness of traditional liner.
To create makeup look:
- Start with a creamy eyeliner pencil.
- Apply it close to your lash line, then use a small brush to gently smudge the liner.
- Smudge it out to create a soft, diffused look.
- Add a light coat of mascara for natural-looking lashes.
- Keep the rest of your makeup subtle to highlight the eyes.
20. Purple Smokey Eyes
For a fresh take on the classic smokey eye, use deep purples. This adds an unexpected pop of color that’s still dark and winter-appropriate.
To create makeup look:
- Apply an eyeshadow primer to help the color last.
- Use a dark purple eyeshadow on the outer corners of your eyes.
- Blend a lighter purple or lavender into the center of your lids.
- Add a darker shade in the crease for depth.
- Finish with mascara for fuller, longer lashes.
21. Icy Blue Shadow
Nothing says winter like icy blue! Light blue or silver shadow gives your eyes a frosty, ethereal vibe that perfectly matches the season’s chill.
To create makeup look:
- Start by applying a light eyeshadow primer.
- Use an icy blue eyeshadow on your eyelids.
- Blend the color softly into your crease for a seamless look.
- Add a bit of shimmer to the inner corners of your eyes.
- Finish with a coat of mascara to make your eyes pop.
22. Blotted Lips
For a more relaxed lip look, try blotted lips. Apply your lipstick and gently dab it with a tissue for a soft, lived-in effect that looks casual and effortless.
To create makeup look:
- Choose your favorite lipstick shade.
- Apply it lightly to your lips, focusing on the center.
- Use a tissue to gently blot the color.
- Reapply for a more intense effect, then blot again.
- Add a dab of lip balm to keep your lips soft.
23. Glossy Eyes
Take a cue from the runways and try glossy eyes. Apply a clear gloss over your eyeshadow for a dewy, wet look that stands out in the crowd.
To create makeup look:
- Apply a neutral eyeshadow base to your lids.
- Use a clear lip gloss or eye gloss and gently dab it onto your eyelids.
- Be careful not to move the shadow underneath.
- Add a bit of mascara for balance.
- Keep the rest of your makeup minimal for a modern, glossy effect.
24. Warm-Toned Blush
While summer is all about bronzer, winter is the season for warm-toned blush. Shades of peach or coral warm up your complexion, giving you a healthy glow even in the cold.
To create makeup look:
- Use a warm-toned blush like peach or coral.
- Apply it to the apples of your cheeks, blending upward.
- Make sure to blend well for a natural finish.
- Add a touch of bronzer for a sun-kissed look.
- Finish with a light setting powder to hold the makeup in place.
25. Silver Accents
Incorporate silver accents into your makeup for a festive and frosty look. Use silver eyeliner, highlighter, or even silver lipstick for a unique winter-inspired touch.
To create makeup look:
- Start with a light eyeshadow primer.
- Use silver eyeliner or eyeshadow for your accents.
- Apply the silver along your lash line or inner corners.
- Blend the silver to soften the edges.
- Finish with mascara and keep the rest of the makeup simple for balance.
Conclusion
Winter makeup doesn’t have to be complicated—whether you prefer a bold statement or a subtle glow, there’s a look for every occasion. From frosted lids and bold red lips to glossy eyes and soft pink cheeks, these 25 winter makeup looks offer a variety of options to keep you feeling fresh and confident throughout the colder months. By using the right techniques and products, you can achieve flawless, radiant makeup that not only complements the winter season but also enhances your natural beauty. Stay warm, stay glowing, and embrace the magic of winter with these stunning makeup ideas!