This year in beauty it seems there is an intersection where skincare science meets playful self-expression. From cherry blossom-inspired blush art to a ’60s bombshell revival and the bold return of statement eye shadow, this year’s looks are anything but minimal. Glossy mocha lips and skin-enhancing biotech ingredients blur the lines between make-up and skincare, signaling a shift toward beauty that’s as trend-forward as it is skin-conscious.
Eye shadow renaissance
One of the most unexpected comebacks in beauty this year? Eye shadow. After seasons of near invisibility on the runways, it’s making a bold return — this time with attitude. At Giorgio Armani, it was all about elevated elegance, while at New York’s Luar, the look took a grittier turn. Key M.A.C make-up artist Terry Barber described the matte shadow moment as “eighties supermodel glam meets DIY club drag.” It’s unapologetic, theatrical, and a reminder that eye shadow is anything but basic. Take note.
Cherry blossom blush
Conceptualised by Peter Philips of Christian Dior Makeup, this delicate approach offers a fresh and lifted look. Like its name suggests, it’s inspired by the beauty of cherry blossoms and involves applying blush in soft pink floral shapes on the cheeks before blending it outward. To master this technique you’ll need two different cream blushes in two different hues — one light pink and one that is more fuchsia. Next, you’ll draw two flowers on the high part of the cheek, and dot each flower with a fuchsia centre. Then, you’ll blend everything upwards and outwards to achieve a natural lift and flush.
’60s bombshell revival
If there’s one person to credit for the ’60s revival, it’s Sabrina Carpenter. The singer’s signature look screams ’60s bombshell with voluminous blonde waves, rosy cheeks, and glowing skin. Cream-based blushes are the key to this technique. But it doesn’t work alone, and when teamed with a vixen eye, full lashes, and pouty lips, it transforms into a full glam moment that channels vintage allure with a modern twist — think Brigitte Bardot meets TikTok beauty guru.
Biotech skincare integration
Advancements in skincare are influencing make-up trends by creating healthier, more resilient skin — making make-up both easier to apply and less necessary. Enter biotech ingredients like exosomes, which are becoming increasingly prevalent. If you were wondering — exosomes are tiny messengers derived from stem cells that deliver regenerative signals to skin cells, helping to boost collagen, repair damage, and improve overall skin health. Due to these attributes they’re especially popular in biotech skincare, where science-forward brands are bringing clinic-level ingredients to at-home products.
Mocha lips
According to colour-trend experts Pantone, Mocha Mousse is the colour for 2025. So it’s no surprise then that we’re seeing it crop up everywhere, but most prominently, the lips. What we love about this colour is it’s not only warm and comforting — and quietly luxe — but it goes with nearly any outfit. Think of it as an updated nude. If you choose a liner the same colour as the lipstick you can overline your lips for a fuller appearance.
This article originally appeared in Fashion Quarterly‘s Winter 2025 issue.
Words: Sarah Murray.
Photography: Launchmetrics/Spotlight.
