"At the end of certain seasons, we find it hard to say goodbye to the trends of that time period. And, while this summer proved to have some of our favorite beauty looks of the year (sunset eyeshadow will always have a place in our hearts), we can’t help but be ~extremely~ excited for fall 2024. This upcoming autumn, the makeup trends range from classic to cutting-edge, gifting beauty buffs a little bit of everything.
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Complete with the now-viral ‘black honey’ makeup hue to bold red lips that are a prelude to rosy winter shades, fall’s top trends are paving the way for an exciting season ahead. Keep reading to learn more about the hottest makeup trends of fall, according to experts.
Black Honey Makeup
If you’ve been on the beauty side of TikTok recently, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of the ‘black honey’ makeup. (If not, don’t stress—we’ll break it down.) This iconic shade is a fan favorite, thanks to its ability to complement a wide range of skin tones. Its deep, berry hue can be worn sheer for a natural flush or layered for a more intense finish, making it perfect for both day and night. Plus, we love that it offers both a sophisticated and subtly dramatic look.
“Makeup lovers can agree—this shade is a fall staple!” says beauty TikTok creator Victoria Lyn. “Black cherry colors are beautiful on the lips, cheeks, and eyes, and somehow look stunning on every single person who wears them. If you want to incorporate this shade into your makeup routine I highly recommend using a lip and cheek product. Clinique recently launched a black honey lip and cheek oil that works well for this trend. If you’re on a budget, an amazing dupe for black honey is Covergirl’s ‘Bliss You Berry’ lip balm.”
Grungy Eyes
As predicted by the runway shows in February of this year, the grunge aesthetic is here to stay. “We’re going to see a lot of nostalgic makeup trends like grunge-inspired smokey eyes from the ’90s, but updated with a bit of a mystical, witchy kind of vibe,” explains Jenny Patinkin, makeup artist and founder of Jenny Patinkin Eco-luxe Beauty Tools. This trend is all about smudged, smoky shadows in deep, moody tones like charcoal, plum, and forest green. The key to perfecting grungy eyes lies in layering and blending, allowing for a diffused, lived-in effect that exudes effortless cool. “It’s a modern take on the indie sleaze aesthetic,” adds Lyn. “This kind of look pairs beautifully with dewy, luminous skin. [It’s] the perfect makeup trend to end your brat summer and transition into grungy girl fall.”
Monochromatic Makeup
If there’s one trend that we coin as classic and timeless, it’s a monochromatic makeup look. Simple, easy, and gorgeous every time, this beauty hack is both understated and underrated. “Monochromatic makeup uses the technique of applying the same shade on the lips, cheeks, and also eyes,” says Lyn. “The easy way to approach this trend is to use a multi-stick in your makeup routine.” Luckily, tons of brands are coming out with these kinds of products. One of our favorites is the Rhode Pocket Blush, which can be used on the cheeks and lips. Additionally, Thrive Causemetics has color sticks, which work as a blush, contour, bronzer, and highlighter. If you’re looking for something more affordable, we suggest opting for the Neutrogena Multi-Use Sticks, which are hydrating for the skin and lips.
“You will notice how easy your makeup routine can be when you use a multi-stick,” notes Lyn. “In just five minutes, your lips, cheeks, and eyes are all done. This will be a game changer for those heading back to school, returning to work, or anyone who wants to get ready quickly.”
Doll-like Lashes
During this year’s fashion week preview for the Fall/ Winter 2024 season, Pat McGrath pioneered a trend at Maison Margiela Couture, which has now been coined “The Valley of the Dolls.” This trend focuses on creating long, voluminous lashes that open up the eyes and give a wide-eyed, youthful appearance, reminiscent of classic dolls. (Sorry, Barbie.)
To achieve this look, you’ll want to layer on lengthening and volumizing mascaras, use lash primers for added fullness, and even apply false lashes or lash extensions for extra drama. To complement these fluttery lashes, pair them with a soft, neutral eyeshadow and a touch of highlighter on the brow bone and inner corners of the eyes. If you want to really take things to the next level, try overlining your lips and opt for a dewy, peachy flush.
Gray & Green Hues
Every fall, it’s hard not to notice the move toward darker toners. This season, Patinkin notes that we’ll see a newfound love for shades of grays and greens, which will offer a sophisticated alternative to traditional autumn colors. Gray tones, ranging from soft, smoky silvers to deep charcoal are the perfect base for creating a variety of eye-catching looks, whether you want something chic, grungy, or just a little different. Plus, forest greens, olive tones, and emerald shades will also make their debut this season, pairing well with the cool gray shades. Use these colors in eyeshadows, eyeliners, or even as a hint of green mascara to make your eyes stand out.
Red Lips
One of the best things about fall is that red lips always seem to make a comeback one way or another. This season, the trend is all about embracing the full spectrum of red—from deep, vampy burgundies to bright, fiery crimsons, the options are endless. The best part? A lip is perfect for both day and night.
To get the perfect red pout, start with a lip liner to define your lips. Choose a red lipstick that complements your skin tone; cooler undertones work well with blue-based reds, while warmer undertones look stunning with orange-based reds. For a sexy twist, try a matte finish for a bold, velvety look. Pair your red lips with minimal eye makeup or take things up a notch by adding feathery lashes.
Lauren Harano, Contributing Beauty & Lifestyle Writer
Lauren Harano is a Southern California native turned New Yorker with a passion for all things beauty, travel, and lifestyle. She has over seven years of experience in the journalism industry, and her work can be found in between the pages of Cosmopolitan and Seventeen as well as online at Glamour, InStyle, Teen Vogue, Esquire, POPSUGAR, and various food and travel sites.