I have big news. Diptyque, the French fragrance house that's renowned for its highly coveted candles and pretty perfumes, recently dropped its first-ever bodycare collection. It marks a major milestone in the brand's 65-year history. While it already offered a few luxurious lotions and hotel-worthy hand washes, this is the first time it's launched a complete collection. Well, two, to be exact.

Diptyque's Rituels de Soins bodycare collection features a lineup of luxurious products designed for morning and evening use. It rests on ancient Greco-Roman bathing traditions and is formulated with natural ingredients and indulgent scents. With both an A.M. and P.M. routine, it supports the natural circadian rhythm while encouraging slow, sensorial self-care. If that sounds like your thing, keep scrolling to see all the products and get every last detail.

Diptyque's Rituel de Soin Bath & Body Collection, Overview

The collection features two distinct routines—Le Matin (French for "morning") and Le Soir (French for "evening"). The former is a lineup of energizing products to awaken your senses. The latter is a lineup of soothing products to unwind the mind and body and prepare for deep, restorative rest. There are also a few additional bodycare accessories to enhance both routines.

The A.M. Routine—Le Matin

The P.M. Routine—Le Soir

Tools & Accessories

My all-time favorite manicure season is here! Nothing against spring pastels or vibrant, summer vacation-ready polishes, but a moody, fall mani just does something to my psyche. I can't help but feel cooler with a rich coat of espresso, navy, or olive on my nails. A deeper shade also elevates my outfits to the nth degree—even more so if I opt for a chic, artful design—so I've been collecting inspo for months in preparation for the first kiss of brisk fall air. It may be 81°F as I type this sentence, but hey, it's officially September, baby!

Below, find the seven trends I personally can't wait to wear this season. Oh, and because I'm genuinely obsessed with gathering as many fashion-forward, non-basic nail ideas as possible, I asked two celebrity manicurists to weigh in on their predictions. Keep scrolling for the ultimate fall nail field guide.

The 7 Most Stylish Fall Nail Trends of 2026

Muted Metallics

According to celebrity manicurist Stephanie Stone, understated metallic shades (think soft pewter, rose gold, brown chrome, etc.) will dominate the fall 2026 season. "We still have our deep hues in rotation, but the fresh, glitzy formulas help keep the look both modern and timeless," she shares. To hop on the trend, either opt for a burnished polish (like Essie's Gel Couture Liquid Diamonds collection) or simply add a chrome topper to any rich shade you please. I'm personally partial to this smoky brown moment above from celebrity manicurist Iram Shelton, who simply used OPI's Hot Toddy Naughty

Elevated Earth Tones

As the leaves turn, it only feels natural to coat your tips in shades of gold, amber, and brown. Why not lean into the fall classics? "We have our fall favorites for a reason," Stone says. "They help us get into the spirit of the seasonal change." Still, if you're hoping to spice things up a bit, feel free to alternate colors like the photo above. An ombré moment never fails to turn heads.

Almost-Black Blues

"I loved seeing all of the dark plums and reds trickle in a little earlier this year during high summer," shares celebrity manicurist Holly Falcone, co-founder of Celisse Nails. I concur—there's just something so cool about an off-season, "Summerween" manicure. (Hailey Bieber and Charli XCX would also agree.) "I think that dark trend will stay but evolve into almost-black blues, browns, and, of course, black," Falcone continues. For those with an aversion to jet-black manicures (they're polarizing, I get it), I suggest going the deep, midnight navy route.

Fantasy Pearl

When it comes to more underrated fall shades, Falcone is quick to call out "fantasy pearls." You might associate them more with summer months—as these shades do have a seashell-like iridescence—but more neutral players like white and pink look chic year-round. "Bunny as one coat is a great intro to a pearly finish," Falcone offers. That said, dreamy blues and purples also totally earn their place in a fall manicure lineup.

Almost-There French

When it comes to trending designs, "I love an almost-there, soft French," Falcone shares. Also called a "cloudy" French, this look features a hazy veil over a classic French manicure—like a sheer garment for your nails. To nail that foggy effect, paint your French tips as usual, then once everything dries, add another light coat of your base polish to create a translucent layer. So easy, so chic.

Micro Details

Mini nail art is also a smart way to switch things up without taking attention away from your base color. "Tiny stars and dots forever," Falcone says of her favorite fall designs, though I'd also add micro hearts to that list—especially in an earthy green over a clean, sheer base.

Just Buffed

Clean, naked nails are forever on-trend, so take this as a sign to focus on maintenance. "I truly think the ‘underrated’ nail product right now is cuticle oil—not a color," Stone declares. "When fall rolls around and the weather starts changing, we often notice our skin drier and our nails more brittle. It’s completely normal and a great time to start a year-round cuticle care routine if you haven’t already." Grab a roll-on or brush-on formula and apply it three times per day (like breakfast, lunch, and dinner for your nails, a manicurist once told me!). If you can't fathom forgoing polish entirely, layer on a strengthening base coat for a noticeable shine. "Our new base coat, The Set Up, is a quick way to achieve that satin, just-buffed look," shares Falcone.

Why Trust Who What Wear

At Who What Wear, trend reporting is our bread and butter. Our editors have a knack for spotting the latest in-demand beauty looks—often before they hit the mainstream—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned manicurists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders for their personal takes. Together, this ensures every trend report is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

In addition, we focus on products that deliver, whether they're affordable favorites or luxury investments. Our curated selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how, and what we'd truly recommend to our closest friends and family members.

If you've ever watched your screen in awe of the beautiful people who whisk you from futuristic utopias to Regency-era ballrooms, you have their on-set hair and makeup artists to thank. In Behind the Beauty, we take a peek inside the glam trailer with the experts who track each mascara-stained tear and carefully placed curl for continuity, wake up at 3 in the morning for early call times, and shape your favorite films and shows into the moments that define culture. Beauty is its own character, and here, we give it the stage.

The witchy tale of Practical Magic has haunted us (in a good way) since 1998. Though it was initially sluggish at the box office—as many cult favorites are—Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman led what would later become a beloved rom-com drama about an East Coast family of female witches plagued by a curse that kills any man who dares to love them. The fantasy film has been coloring the TV screens of millennial and Gen Z households with foliage-splashed scenes for dozens of Octobers, but in 2026, Practical Magic 2 will cast a new spell on a younger generation. Prepare to see even more wavy-hair TikTok tutorials and whimsigoth makeup trends inspired by your favorite coven.

"Younger people are still huge fans of Practical Magic, the original, even though they weren't even born when it was released," the film's makeup designer, Graham Johnston, tells me over Zoom. As a 2000 baby who, too, fell in love with the Stevie Nicks–speckled soundtrack and autumnal beauty of this movie several years after its release, I tell him he's right on the money.

Fast-forward to August 2026—nearly 30 years after the original's debut—when I attended an early screening of the hotly anticipated sequel. It was a particularly blistering afternoon, and though the remnants of a steamy subway commute still clung to my skin, nothing could keep goosebumps from crawling up my arms as the first notes of Alan Silvestri's "Amas Veritas" drizzled over the opening credits. I won't spoil the plot for you, but I can tell you two things: The magic is back and better than ever, and the makeup and hair looks are just as covetable as they were in '98. Keep reading for the full beauty breakdown on your favorite family of witches, straight from Johnston, hair designer Claire Pritchard, and the cast's personal artists.

Creative Direction

Following a film as dimensional and beloved as Practical Magic wasn't just a challenge for the sequel's director, Susanne Bier, or Kidman and Bullock, who doubled as producers this time around. It was also a sizeable feat for the hair and makeup departments. Kidman's vivid red hair—a physical manifestation of her fiery and flirtatious character, Gillian (Gilly) Owens—and Bullock's brunette mane and minimalist eyes (the ever-sensible Sally Owens) have inspired fans to save grainy film stills to their fall beauty Pinterest boards for years. Pritchard and Johnston, plus their team of talented colleagues, had the difficult task of appealing to nostalgia while also bringing these witches into the modern day.

"It was important that it related to a modern audience with the same magic but with a more contemporary look," says Johnston. From mood boards between actors and artists to test runs in the beauty trailer that Johnston and Pritchard split (there was just a thin corridor separating their workstations), the experience was wholly collaborative. Pritchard describes the beauty direction's overall theme as whimsical and romantic with a "hint of magic." It's what we all loved about the first film, she points out. Pritchard pauses for a moment, a small smile spreading across her face. "I think there's a little witch in all of us, really," she adds.

The department heads were tasked with steering things towards the future (this is the sequel, after all), and the lead stars' personal glam teams worked in tandem to create intentional references to Bullock's and Kidman's characters. "Honoring the original film was nonnegotiable," Kidman's on-set makeup artist Angela Levin tells Who What Wear. Levin, alongside hairstylist Kim Santantonio, worked exclusively with Kidman, and Bullock's personal team consisted of makeup artist Whitney James and hairstylist Janine Thompson.

Levin shares that her creative process, much like Johnston's and Pritchard's, started with research and storytelling. "I began by looking at modern, pure, stunning witches—women whose strength, magic, and grace feel entirely contemporary and authentic," she explains. Immediately, images of Florence Welch and Nicks, both of whom decorate the sequel's soundtrack, come to mind. From there, it's a menagerie of face charts and mood boards. "I love creating makeup charts by hand; it's where I get to play, experiment, and capture what feels intuitively right so I have [a] visual and emotional anchor," Levin adds. Even the smallest of touches, such as new ink with little screen time, are intentional. (Kidman bears two new tattoos on her inner arm in this film, per Levin, as a nod to her "romantic, unconventional soul," though I have a theory about the first film's rose garden.)

There was no stone left unturned in the hair-and-makeup trailer. Keep reading to see which beauty moments became scene-stealers in Practical Magic 2, from autumnal hair looks to 2026-coded blush.

The Practical Magic 2 Beauty Breakdown

Owens Red

One of the most vital beauty moments from the original film is Gillian's copper hair, and the intentionality of this hue—and what it means for the characters who have it—is more prevalent than ever in the sequel. "You want to immediately recognize that lovely, rich auburn hair," Pritchard says with a knowing smile. While Sally's daughter, Kylie (played by Joey King), bears a similar hue to her aunt Gilly in the first film, we see a more mature Gillian with strawberry blonde hair today. "It had to complement her skin tone perfectly while capturing that magical Owens family lineage," Santantonio explains. "We added lots of highlights to the wig, so it sparkled and came alive."

While it was also important to customize Kylie's red hue for her complexion, an important piece of movie magic was infused into her final shade. Being slightly darker than '98 Gillian's, Kylie's color nods to the strong familial magic that runs through the family's veins—Sally's own daughter having a hair color halfway between her inky brown and her sister's bright red. "It took a day and a half to get Joey's hair color exactly right," Pritchard recalls, as King came into the trailer as a medium brunette. "She was really thrilled with it," the head hair designer adds, which is probably why King has kept the fiery hue for the ongoing press run. "She's taken away the concoction and gets her hairdresser to match the color now."

Legacy Likeness

There's an obvious tie between Sally's, Gilly's, Kylie's, and Antonia's (Sally's other daughter played by Game of Thrones alum Maisie Williams) hair colors, but what may not have been noticeable to fans beforehand was the connection between this and the aunts, Jet and Franny. They, too, demonstrate the brunette-and-redhead pairing that runs in the Owens family. "Softening Gillian's hair from that wild strawberry red into a lighter, softer, almost dusty rose gold mirrors her stepping into the matriarchal tier," Santantonio explains. "She's no longer the rebellious, jet-setting younger sister. She has settled into the role alongside her sister, held by Jet and Franny." Our original Owens girls are officially the aunts.

We see the butterfly effect of other beauty cues from the OG Owens in the next generation as well, with Kylie's often-flushed lips modeled after Gillian's flirty pink lipstick. "We wanted a lip that looked alive and completely kissable, so I reached for pink-based, translucent lip colors packed with hydration," Levin says about Kidman's rosy pout. Johnston recalls it being an "old-fashioned lipstick" from Dior. A similar, more Gen Z approach was taken when designing Kylie's look. "She's got a boyfriend. She's slightly flirtatious, a bit more of a modern girl about town," Johnston says of her flushed, natural makeup look. That sounds like another redheaded sister we know and love.

On the flip side, Sally's look stays consistent: minimal makeup, glowing skin, and unfussy waves falling in rich brown ripples. We meet her in 2026 as a librarian, and Antonia, a nurse at the local hospital, has her mother's disposition in both practicality and looks. "Maisie came to me with long pink hair," Pritchard recalls of her early trailer days when she had little time to do a proper dye job. I bet you'd never realize Williams was wearing a Bullock-brunette wig. With their no-makeup minimalism and sensible lifestyles, it's not hard to see that the apple didn't fall far from the tree.

Whimsical Waves

Bullock's romantic waves have cast a spell on beauty lovers since the '90s, and they are better than ever in the sequel. Pritchard confirms that Sally's cascading locks—extremely long, thick, and full of texture—were inspired by her witchy ancestor Maria Owens, who was shown burning at the stake in the first film. "It was an intentional choice," says Pritchard, citing a big portrait of Maria that was in the hallway of the home. "It's that family resemblance that comes through the generations and now to the daughters. Then you wonder how long before the next film, and then it'll be their daughters."

While Kidman's hair was often blown straight in the first film, her bangs and auburn tresses were also fashioned into whimsical waves for the sequel. "Bringing Gillian's signature hair into the modern era for Practical Magic 2 meant honoring the nostalgic, free-spirited energy of the '98 classic while evolving the look so it felt elevated, fresh, and grounded for the present day," Santantonio explains. This meant swapping the wispy fringe for curtain bangs and cutting "lots of layers" at Kidman's request. To create these romantic bends, the hairstylist used a 1.5-inch curling iron to make small ringlets before pulling out the curls with a flat iron. "I really concentrated on straightening the ends," she explains. This technique creates the most natural-looking waves. To get things camera ready, she relied on a smattering of products—R+Co's Chainmail Thermal Protection Styling Spray, Oribe's Dry Texturizing Spray, and Olaplex's Bonding Oil, to name a few.

Candlelit Blush

While I was often distracted by the witches' poreless complexions, I couldn't help but fall into a blush-induced trance when I saw a trend of warm, glowy flushes throughout this film. "We used a lot of cream blush on everyone and then a very little bit of powder," says Johnston. He credits Bobbi Brown's cream concoction and Tom Ford's powder as his go-tos on the Practical Magic set. "I like cream blush because it gives much more of a translucence, and that was the whole thing with the makeup … to create that slightly magical feel," he says. He stuck to a rose color palette to create a hearth-warmed flush, and Kidman's makeup artist followed suit.

"I aimed for a fresh, sexy rose glow, and the Dior Backstage Rosy Glow Blush Stick in Pink was pure perfection," says Levin. "It delivers a juicy, luminous flush that looks like natural warmth rather than makeup." This simple step takes Sally and Gilly into the 21st century, pivoting from the matte formulas of the '90s and incorporating a dewy flush into nearly every look.

Magic Touches

There are things that tie each of the witches together, but their personal beauty choices are what make them fan favorites. Case in point: Sally's soft, smoky eye makeup (what I'm coining as "foggy eyes") that accentuates her brown orbs in a wearable, daytime way. "It's quite a classic look that works particularly for brunettes," Johnston muses. If you want to create a similar look at home, he recommends the Armani Beauty Eye Tint for buildable color and an easy-to-blend formula. "It's quite a classic look, and I think that's the whole thing with the Sally character. She's quite a classic beauty," he says.

Separating Gillian is her "glam piece" makeup, as Johnston calls it. While Kidman donned black waterlines and icy matte eye shadow in certain scenes of the first film, Levin channeled the witch's love of glam into something more wearable in 2026. "The eye look was built around Lisa Eldridge's Betty Palette. I fell in love with using just the pink and lilac shades on Nicole to give her that delicate, magical sparkle," she explains. "My approach was to evolve her look naturally, keeping that familiar bohemian warmth and charm but letting it reflect a woman who has lived—someone who took aunt Jet's advice to heart and truly lived 'a little, a lot.'"

Intentional hairstyles were another magical touch for the family of witches. "[Aunt Franny] was much more of a 'magical' kind of witch, which is why we did the dramatic streaks of white in her wig," Pritchard states. Styling played a key role too. The sisters were known to wear braids in scenes where they'd need extra protection. "In folk witchcraft and traditional practical magic, loose hair is meant to receive energy and keep you open to the elements, whereas tied or braided hair binds and protects your energy," Santantonio explains. When you see a braid, pay attention.

If there's anything I've gleaned from my conversations with the hair-and-makeup team on this whimsical film, it's that the real magic happens behind the scenes and, sometimes, beyond the set. "We had the occasional Friday-night margaritas," Pritchard tells me with a mischievous grin, like a child admitting to stealing candy from the cupboard. I goad her for more, and she tells me that beyond the trailers, the actors, director, and beauty team would congregate over midnight margaritas. Bier even got a haircut at the same time with "Coconut" by Harry Nilsson playing over the loudspeaker. "We get the music on and just create that atmosphere," she laughs.

It is this comfort and rapport between actors and artists that allowed the glamour to shine as it does—never distracting from the plot but always adding that touch of magic. "I always think we're kind of the finishing piece," says Johnston. "The costume's done, that character's created, and we finish the talk."

Witness the sorcery yourself when Practical Magic 2 comes to theaters on September 11. Shop the hair-and-makeup team's go-to products from set below.

Shop the Trailer

There's an unmistakable chill in the air, and the evenings are drawing in. Autumn is mere days away. Even as an incredibly summer-pilled person, I can't resist the allure of warm, cosy nights and the "back-to-school" reset that happens around this time. Whilst I may no longer be studying, there's something about September that makes me want to shake up my routine, from purchasing unnecessary stationery to re-thinking my beauty rotation.

Yes, with the change of seasons comes the familiar urge to chop off my split ends, and of course, brave a bob. It's the quintessential short autumn hairstyle—I mean, what looks better with a trench and a chunky knit? And of course, there's no dearth of inspiration this AW26. "Bobs are definitely back this autumn with a myriad of ways to wear them," notes TONI&GUY Global Creative Director, Cos Sakkas. "We’ve had structured, smooth and high-shine finishes, and are moving to more lived-in, effortless styles that are easy to achieve if you’re short on time and skill."

So, whether you're partial to an undone shag, or want something that complements your features beautifully, there's something for everyone ahead.

6 Autumn Bob Trends for 2026

1. The Bixie

Eva Goulding at Nicola Clarke Salon has hailed the "bixie" as the bob of the season. As the name suggests, it's a mix between a pixie and a bob. "It's a little more daring than your below-chin bob, so it’s perfect for those who are contemplating a pixie cut, but want to test it out first," the hairstylist explains. "Think of it as a short bob with graduation, but not in the way we've seen before. This shape is a lot less structured, and the length lifts up to the lips, rather than falling triangularly."

Get the Look:

2. The Butterfly Bob

If you're a fan of the wolf cut, which was everywhere last autumn, then you'll probably be keen on the butterfly bob too. It's a softer, more whimsical evolution of that movement, explains award-winning hairstylist Gustav Fouche. "Rather than strong, solid lines, you have much more texture here. There are lots of layers around the face to emphasise the cheekbones and jawline, and the overall length sits somewhere between the jaw and collarbone. You can think of it as a more modern, layered version of the bob."

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3. The Kicked-Out Bob

The kicked-out bob continues to reign supreme for AW26. This time around, though, it's a little longer, but still all one length with minimal layering. As Goulding explains: "Your hairstylist will focus on graduation to encourage the hair to naturally kick outwards." Plus, it's very easy to style and great for most hair types, as you can wear it wavy, curly or straight."

4. The Boyfriend Bob

This season's androgynous boyfriend bob is a slightly shorter, sharper take on the style. "This isn't a heavily layered bob," notes Fouche. "You want to retain a strong line through the bottom to give it that androgynous feel, but personalise it through the front with subtle layering around the cheekbones and movement around the face. It’s often worn with a centre parting, although it can easily be flicked to the side." Of course, if you prefer, it can sit anywhere from below the ear to more of a lob length.

Get the Look:

5. The Overgrown Shag Bob

The shag has been sported by everyone from Jenna Ortega to Selena Gomez and Alexa Chung. It's not hard to see why it's so popular; it's endlessly versatile, and this season, it's grown out a tad more.

"It's slightly longer and sits between the jaw and collarbone," explains Sakkas. "It comes to life when worn tousled, and is the anti-glass hair finish. The trick is to style it like you're not trying—use product for texture and hold rather than smoothness and shine. The undone finish makes it perfect for square and heart shapes with fine and medium naturally textured hair."

6. The Curved Bob

Perhaps the most flattering for those with round and oval faces, the curved bob is a rounded, jaw-skimming blunt cut, which is softened with a subtle curve. "The curves keep it strong, but its softer corners are more wearable, making it ideal for people with medium to thick hair," notes Sakkas. "It’s less messy than the French bob but looks more expensive and fashion-forward."

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

It might be September, but here in London, the weather is unusually warm, which means I'm in that weird limbo phase of pairing knits and jeans with flip-flops and sandals. Although it might not quite be time to give up the open-toe shoes, in my opinion, it's definitely not too early to swap your summer manicure and pedicure shades for autumn colours, and if this year's autumn pedicure trends are anything to go by, then we're certainly in for a treat.

Whilst you can certainly expect to see the usual red and burgundy hues at this time of year, there's one pedicure colour in particular that's caught my eye this season, and I have a feeling it's about to be everywhere. Enter the forest green pedicure trend.

I first spotted this trend at Copenhagen Fashion Week, on the ever-so-stylish Rebecca Olivia, and since then, it's all I've been able to think about. Whilst this deep green hue is a popular manicure choice in the autumn months, the matching pedi looks so chic and is perfect if you want to switch things up from your usual black or burgundy polish, whilst keeping that dark, moody, expensive-looking vibe. Below, I've rounded up my favourite forest green pedicure looks, along with the best polishes to help recreate the trend this season.

Forest Green Pedicure Inspiration

As mentioned, I first spotted this chic pedicure look at Copenhagen Fashion Week. How stylish does it look paired with pink heels?

A shimmery finish makes this perfect for party season.

Opt for a soft, creamy forest green hue if you prefer a more subtle look.

This nail polish shade instantly adds a cool touch to any outfit.

The Best Forest Green Nail Polishes

With access to runway shows and a roster of celebrity artists to consult, we Who What Wear editors have a pretty good idea what trends beauty fans will fawn over before they become super buzzy. Lilac eye shadow? We predicted that back in March. Bedazzled nails? We've been eyeing the manicure for months, way before Kylie Jenner made us nostalgic for stick-on rhinestones. (Just wait until more fine jewelry brands get involved. Watch this space!) That said, our proverbial crystal ball does have its limits—we're only human!

Until time travel becomes run-of-the-mill, I can't physically jump a few seasons ahead to jot down imminent hair trends, but I can do the next best thing: connect with Australian stylists. As autumn already wrapped down under (May marks the end of their fall season), these experts already know what cuts, colors, and styles became super popular once the weather started to cool—similar to how Australian tastemakers can tell you what seasonal fashion items are poised to sell out immediately.

"I think the biggest shift we saw in Australia was toward hair that feels more effortless and lived-in," shares hairstylist Joey Scandizzo, founder of Joey Scandizzo Salon in South Yarra (a suburb just outside of Melbourne). "People are moving away from overly polished, heavily styled hair." Sydney-based stylist Renya Xydis agrees, noting that "nothing too stiff or staged" is the name of the game for fall 2026. "Just beautiful, healthy hair that feels youthful, effortless and cool," she adds. Below, find the four biggest trends that align with that direction, from modern wolf cuts to monochromatic highlights. Chances are you'll see them hit the U.S. trend cycle in a few short weeks.

'90s Influences

You heard it here first: '90s-inspired styles are on the horizon (thought I'd argue they never even left the chat!). "We saw a lot of '90s influence coming through [in Australia], but with a modern interpretation—think fuller shapes, soft layers, and hair that has movement rather than looking overly 'done,'" Scandizzo says. "I think that’s something we’ll see a lot more of in the U.S. as the season progresses." Haircuts are looking increasingly '90s-coded too, he adds, as "shorter, layered shapes with a little more attitude" reign supreme. (Think: a modern version of "the Rachel.") TL;DR? If you've been on the fence about face-framing layers or curtain bangs, now is the perfect time to commit.

Shop the Trend: '90s Influences

Piece-y Waves

That being said, it's not all about the bouncy, '90s blowouts this season. According to Xydis, tousled, grungy styles will also skyrocket this fall. "The OG bouncy blowout will always have a place, but I’m currently loving the '90s Kate Moss-inspired, natural gritty wave," she says. It's not a full-on beach wave, but it's also not crimped—more of a "crinkle," as celebrity colorist Jenna Perry once described it. Face framing and lived-in layers are essential, Xydis adds, as they allow for soft, effortless movement.

Shop the Trend: Piece-y Waves

Modern Wolf Cuts

Don't worry, bobs are still going strong (especially textured bobs with tons of movement, as depicted in the '90s style above!), but "we’re also seeing long layers, soft wolf cuts, mullets, and beautiful fringes," Xydis notes. For those who may be growing out their shorter crop, might we suggest a modern wolf cut? Half shag half mullet, the 'do features tons of tousled layers that can't help but look incredibly cool. To make yours appear even more modern, soften those layers and make them a tad longer. "It’s a sexy fringe with long, flowing hair," Xydis says of the trending look. It's also practically made for curly cuts, which naturally have tons of dimension already.

Shop the Trend: Modern Wolf Cuts

Monochromatic Highlights

As for color, both Xydis and Scandizzo agree that less is more this season. "The big thing with color is that it’s becoming less about dramatic transformation and more about richness and shine," Scandizzo shares. "A beautiful, dimensional brunette with a really glossy finish can feel just as impactful as a major color change." For those itching for a fall zhuzh, opt for monochromatic highlights that rely on slightly lighter shades within the same color family, as opposed to highlights with a higher contrast. According to Xydis, these subtle tonal tweaks will create "beautiful yet natural dimension."

Shop the Trend: Monochromatic Highlights

Why Trust Who What Wear

At Who What Wear, trend reporting is our bread and butter. Our editors have a knack for spotting the latest in-demand beauty looks—often before they hit the mainstream—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned manicurists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders for their personal takes. Together, this ensures every trend report is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

In addition, we focus on products that deliver, whether they're affordable favorites or luxury investments. Our curated selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how, and what we'd truly recommend to our closest friends and family members.

I know what you're thinking: isn't it strange to talk about pedicure trends in autumn? Pedicures are usually hot topics in the summer months, and it makes sense, given that it is sandal season. However, not only are we having unusually warm weather this September, but autumn is often the time when our mesh ballet flats and peep-toe kitten heels come out to play, which means a pedicure might actually be on your mind. Not to mention the fact that autumn nail colours are some of my favourites, which means I can't wait to wear the deep, rich, autumnal hues on my toes, too.

But what autumn pedicure trends can we expect to see everywhere this season? I've been busy keeping an eye on celebrities and fashion insiders to see what pedicures they are pairing with their autumn shoes of choice. Below, you'll see all of my (very chic) findings, alongside the best nail polishes to get the look at home. Just keep scrolling...

6 Biggest Autumn Pedicure Trends 2026

1. Clear Gloss

As soon as I spotted Alexa Chung with this subtle yet glossy pedicure, I knew it was about to be a huge trend this autumn. Perfect for any low-maintenance beauty lover, a clear top coat will achieve this look in seconds.

Get the Look:

2. Forest Green

How cool is this metallic, forest-green pedicure? The perfect shade for the autumn months; I am definitely going to try this ASAP. Just imagine this colour paired with black jeans and mesh ballet flats.

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3. Classic Black

You simply can't go wrong with a black pedicure in the autumn months, and it seems that the fashion set agrees. I spotted Lucy Williams wearing this chic black shade on her toes recently, and it reminded me of how sophisticated this pedicure can look.

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4. Milky White

You might have thought milky-white pedicures were reserved for the summer months, but I'm here to prove you wrong. In fact, I think this milky shade looks incredibly stylish when paired with autumnal tones like the outfit above.

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5. Vibrant Red

I've spotted so many people opting for pops of red on their toes this season. I especially love the way it looks when peeking out of a monochrome ballet flat. If it feels a little too bright for you, don't be afraid to opt for a darker hue, either.

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6. Rich Burgundy

Ok, so not necessarily a new trend, but one I come back to every single season. A burgundy pedicure will always look elegant thanks to its timeless, autumnal appeal. Pair this pedicure with navy tones for ultimate style points.

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As fragrance trends go, autumn perfume trends are by far my most anticipated as a beauty editor and fragrance lover. As the season rolls around each year, I never fail to get a thrill from swapping in my autumn perfumes on my dressing table. Autumn perfumes lend themselves to a cosy vibe, and there's nothing I love more than reaching for warm fragrances or a smouldering vanilla scent that lingers on my knitwear as those crisp autumn days commence.

In honour of my favourite scented season, I decided to investigate the autumn perfume trends that will go on to define 2026. From the new perfume launches that have arrived on my desk, to the fragrances I've been smelling on my beauty colleagues and the trending fragrance notes that I haven't been able to ignore, one thing is for sure. We're all about to smell phenomenal this season. Scroll on ahead for the perfume trends that will ensure you're the best-smelling person going into the new season.

Autumn Perfume Trends 2026

1. Blackcurrant

It seems that almost every recent new perfume launch features blackcurrant this year, and as we head into autumn, I'm seeing more and more of this fragrance note popping up. It's fruitness makes it a great note to wear as we transition from summer into autumn, and it brings a tart burst of sweetness with a woody and almost creamy facet. Think of a French crème de cassis cocktail, or an autumnal walk through the British countryside.

One of my favourite new autumn perfumes is Byredo Future Memories, which has a juicy blackcurrant accord wrapped in velvety orris butter and creamy vanilla that radiates with a warm, golden and subtly fruity aura. I've been complimented on it every time I wear it. Additionally, I was one of the first to smell this new perfume from Matiere Premiere in Grasse, where perfumer Aurélien Guichard told me he was inspired by the nostalgia of the fruit for Black Currant. Combined with oud, this feels elevated, sophisticated and smouldering on the skin, with earthy patchouli and leather.

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2. Touching Grass Scents

After observing the newest fragrance launches, it's hard to ignore how many have drawn inspiration from the elements, and it feels like a welcome invitation to not only head into the great outdoors but also bring that grounding sense of calm to our day-to-day, too—it's time to touch grass.

Take Aesop's new Unforseen Aer, which captures the bracing air that whips atop a mountain with a mineral, fresh yet spicy scent. Like bottled mountain air, this herbaceous scent clears your mind and grounds you with every spritz. Or Jo Malone London's Sea Salt & Bergamot, which quite literally feels like you're at the seaside, with sparkling and invigorating bergamot and salt that are both uplifting and calming at once. This instantly brings to mind crashing waves, sparkling waters and the rhythmic pull of the tide that makes a trip to the coast so calming for the soul and your senses.

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3. Iris

Florals? For autumn? Kind of. The scent of the iris flower actually comes from its roots, as opposed to the flower itself, but it's been cropping up in a flurry of new perfumes for autumn. Iris is renowned for being one of the most expensive materials in perfumery, and the powdery scent makes for an elegant autumn fragrance that will undoubtedly make you smell luxurious.

One of the best iris perfume launches of late is Guerlain L’Heure Bleue. Inspired by the shade of blue that fills the sky just as the sun sets and before nightfall arrives, it captures the calmness of a vast sky at blue hour with iris and an ozonic accord that feels like a breath of fresh air. Meanwhile, Creed's new Iris Debonair is a devastatingly elegant scent that combines powdery iris with lavender and smooth, creamy sandalwood.

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4. Vanilla 2.0

Whilst vanilla can be divisive if you're not traditionally a fan of gourmand perfumes, this autumn might be the time it changes your mind. Rather than being syrupy sweet and cloying, autumn 2026's take on vanilla is smooth, smouldering and distinctively grown-up.

Bottega Veneta's Ricordami is inspired by Italian gelato and has a vanilla creaminess that is tempered with smouldering rum that makes it less saccharine and more sophisticated. Then we have Phlur's Vanilla Canyon, which takes the smoothness of vanilla and grounds it in oak wood, velvety plum and earthy patchouli that feels like throwing on your favourite brown suede jacket. If you don't already have one, prepare to develop a real sweet tooth for these autumn perfumes.

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5. Rain Scents

After months of heatwaves over the summer, I'm not surprised that Google searches for rain perfumes are up over 5,000% right now—it seems almost everyone is craving a refreshing scent to see them into autumn. And right on cue, petrichor-inspired perfumes are on the forecast, with brands launching scents that capture the refreshing, air-cleansing scent that fills the air after a downpour. Uni's new Rain fragrance smells like the scent of a forest after rainfall, with citrus and grounding vetiver, and Loewe's Smoky Rain captures the calmness after the storm with a smoky twist of incense and radiant amber.

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Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, we know that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all. Our editors have tested thousands of products, including skincare, makeup, hair and nails, over the years and work closely with trusted experts—dermatologists, make-up artists and leading industry insiders—to ensure every guide is well-researched, inclusive and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Thirty seconds into our Zoom call, Bowen Yang waves off a compliment. "Don't look too closely," he demurs when I point out his artfully decorated bookshelf. "Half this stuff I haven't even read." It's a small window, but at that moment, I understand why every writer, costar, and industry peer makes a point of calling out the comedian's authentic, warm, and disarmingly humble charm despite his meteoric success. I didn't want to fall into the "[Insert star] is so down-to-earth!" trope, but I can confirm he absolutely is all of the above. Meet your heroes, fellow readers, Kayteighs, and publicists (loyal listeners of the Las Culturistas podcast, for the uninitiated). Sometimes, it works out.

It tracks that someone this lovely would genuinely grapple with whether or not to share their glowy-skin secrets with the group chat. In Estée Lauder's Guilty as Skin campaign, Yang heads to a therapy session with Saturday Night Live alum Ana Gasteyer, where he agonizes over whether to divulge his latest find: the quick-absorbing Advanced Night Repair Serum. With its exclusive Night Peptide that optimizes the skin's natural circadian rhythm, it leaves the complexion firmer, smoother, and more even-toned within three sleeps. To gatekeep or not to gatekeep?

It's tongue-in-cheek, but again, I do believe someone with a heart like Yang's would earnestly confront the dilemma. This is, after all, someone who responded with immediate support ("It's totally fine") after Reneé Rapp told him that her driver accidentally hit SNL executive producer Lorne Michaels with his car. And when she later revealed the whole thing was a prank, he offered, "Oscar for that." During our short conversation, he approached each of my questions with the same careful consideration—even when I asked what beauty products Pfannee from Wicked would stockpile in his bathroom cabinet. Or the Titanic iceberg. Or Mary Todd Lincoln. (T-minus one week until his Oh, Mary! debut!)

Read on for our full conversation, including Yang's late-night skincare routine, the most surprising part about portraying Mary Todd, and his Las Culturistas Culture Award winner for the best beauty moment of the year.

In Estée Lauder's Guilty as Skin campaign, you're struggling with whether or not to gatekeep your skincare secret from the group chat. Do you and your friends often swap beauty recs, and are there any products in your current routine that you picked up because a friend put you on to them?

Unless I am missing out in a profound way and I just have very shallow friendships, we put this boundary up, and we keep our recs to ourselves. The only thing that we do swap is the various kinds of sunscreen technology breakthroughs because [we're in] situations where we share a house on summer vacation or something. There are certain products that are communal, that are just on the kitchen counter, let's say, in a "summer home" situation. That's all I could think of when I saw this question. I was like, "Oh no, are my friends not good friends?" [Laughs] It might be an elder millennial thing, but I mostly get my beauty stuff from content and algorithmically served things, which is a little dark. But I think everyone understands that beauty is so personal anyway.

Totally. Especially with skincare, everyone's skin is different. That's a good point about sunscreen too, especially if someone's traveling abroad. I'm always like, "Can you get me this sunscreen?!" because the ones in America are just not it.

Look, there's a million other things to legislate that are more important, but let's bump that up because I don't get why we do that.

If you could raid one friend's bathroom cabinet, who would it be, and why?

It would probably be Ego Nwodim's. Ariana [Grande] basically sends me her bathroom cabinet because I get a nice R.E.M. promo package every now and then, but that's not from her directly. I would never be so bold as to raid someone's bathroom cabinet. This is halfway to kleptomania! You can't! I have friends who are like, "Yeah, I looked at their medicine cabinet." I'm like, "No way. Red flag. Go on house-guest probation." But if I were to raid anyone's, it would probably be Ego Nwodim's. Probably Joel Kim Booster's, too, because he and I have similar phenotypes. Maybe genotypes, for all I know.

I read that you got really into skincare during the pandemic as a way to tie a bow on the whole day. What was your relationship like to skincare and beauty prior to that, or was that really the moment you started prioritizing it?

I think it was the moment that I understood it and then, therefore, prioritized it. In the past, it just seemed like one [piece] of the giant stack of things you were supposed to do at the end of the day, and it just felt obligatory, which cannot be anyone's relationship to it. Growing up in the aughts, it was all about these stringent actives and these peach- and apricot-related products that would completely… What's it called when you scrape the bottom of a river? It just dredges your skin.

Beauty overall is personal, but skincare especially is something that must be extremely bespoke and tailored to you. I was just going with the general application, so to speak, of skincare—like, "You're supposed to use this cleanser and this toner and this moisturizer at night"—and I did not get behind the science of it until the pandemic. Now, there's an infinite level of curiosity and depth to be found in this kind of thing. You can either engage with the science or just be like, "Oh, that's pretty packaging" or "That's cheap. I'll buy that." So it just opened my eyes to it.

Yeah, I feel like beauty and skincare encompass so many emotions. You can have fun and be playful with it, or you can dive into the science and get really into the nitty-gritty of it. I also read that you're doing your own makeup for Oh, Mary! and that you were still in the process of identifying where you wanted to go with it. Have you landed on that, and can you tell us anything about her look?

I've not landed on it because I still haven't gone into the theater to rehearse with the full costume and production of it. I've been running around in the skirt and the heels. I've been doing heel work for a long time. But [for makeup], I was saying maybe Kabuki… I think it's going to veer more toward Beijing opera. There's a slight shift there. The eyeliner is very pronounced, which I think makes sense for Mary Todd. Arches on the eyebrows are very high, very symmetrical, and circular. I think there is a bit of Faye Dunaway in Mommie Dearest [and] Bette Davis's makeup in What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? There's something overapplied and overdrawn because she is a victim of her own malaise, and that's compensatory. You just have to go there on your canvas, as it were. But I think Beijing opera seems to have a decent overlap on the Venn diagram with the cabaret, which is what she loves. I'm still figuring that out. I also want to make it practical and not have to be too involved because, as you said, I have to do it on my own.

Are you learning technique, or are you just testing on your own and trying new things?

I'm watching stuff. I don't have the patience to test on my own. I'm like, "Tell me how to do it." But I will pick it up. Right now, I'm just trying to get off-book. Uh-oh, I hear you're supposed to do that. [Laughs]

I think it'll be a fun, big reveal once a production photograph will be taken. I have some time for now, but we'll see.

Well, I can't wait. I bought tickets for September 15, and I'm so excited.

Oh my god, first night!

First night! I just happened to be on Instagram when the news came out. I was scrolling, and one of the posts said "two minutes ago," and I was like, "This feels like fate. I need to buy tickets right now." So I dropped everything and bought them.

Jamie, I'm deeply flattered. It takes a lot these days for someone to see something being promoted and then be like, "I'm gonna add to cart." That means a lot. I can't wait.

I can't wait! But kind of related to that, is there anything about the character—either about her look or just portraying her—that surprised you after you signed on?

Okay, this is a Who What Wear exclusive. The wig that was in the promo shoot, people are making a lot out of the fact that it could potentially be the new show wig—that I asked for more length. No, no, no. If you go back and look at the promo photos for past Marys, it's just a different wig. There's the portrait wig, and then the show wig will be the bratty curls and what it's looked like on every single actor who's done it before.

What surprised me about her look is that it has to be incredibly durable. Actually, there's a lot of stuff in the construction of the gown that I don't have the knowledge to really get into. But it is both extremely regal in the sense that she's the First Lady, and there's a prestige to that, but then she is completely ceremonial and a little bit powerless to it. You know, she is a woman in America at that time. At the end of the day, even in the most powerful, hallowed room in the country at that time, she's still pretty powerless. I mean, the play is about her liberating herself from the man who ended slavery. It's so crazy how it all wends around these themes. As far as her look goes, she looks beautiful in a sense, but she's sort of despairing, and it's showing. It's a little bit ugly. It's a little bit vicious. That's the look.

To bring it back to skincare and beauty: You're used to working late nights from your time on SNL and now Broadway. Are you someone who will stick to a routine no matter how late it gets? You're in the bathroom, doing the steps…

Okay, this is the thing. This is a new point of discourse that we can have about skincare. A full cleanse at night is really tough because if you're splashing water on your face or putting a balm on, that wakes you up. You were on the train to Sleepy Town, and it was a really nice, smooth ride, and then all of a sudden, you hit a crazy speed bump or snag on the track by splashing water on your face and jolting your nervous system. Now, you've undone all this progress you've made in the wind-down to bed.

So no, the answer is I wish I was. Sometimes, I'll skip it, and it's really bad, but at the very least, I'll do a little mist and moisturizer. [Editor's note: Of course, Estée Lauder's Advanced Night Repair Serum also makes it into the late-night rotation.] But I don't do it every night because sometimes I'm just like, "Wait, I'm already in bed. I'm already under the covers."

That's so true. It's essentially a cold plunge.

It's a cold plunge!

Okay, I'd love to play a little rapid-fire game where I list some of your characters, and then you tell me what their favorite beauty products would be. Let's start with Mary Todd Lincoln.

Well, this is a tiny spoil, but I think she would do a thick setting spray. But because her reading comprehension is not great, I think she just saw a label for azelaic acid and was like, "Oh, from flowers!" And she just wants to be floral, but it's not the right active for her at all.

I love it. What about Pfannee from Wicked?

Pfannee would do a crazy body scrub, body glitter because he's tacky and terrible, and layer on at least 10 fragrances with conflicting notes.

What about Howie from Fire Island?

I think he's really on top of his SPF. He likes a matte [formula]. He'll settle for a spray if that's all that's around, but he stocks up for the house. He gets at least six spray cans. He understands the environmental trade-off there, and he's not happy about it, but that's what he gets for the house.

And the Titanic iceberg?

Cold plunge, gua sha. I think he does any sort of face roller, even though he's ice, and it's not going to do anything.

He's already chiseled enough.

Exactly.

Okay, I have one more question. I am a "reader," so I have to ask: If you could give a Las Culturistas Culture Award to the best beauty moment of the year, what would it be?

Oh my God! Okay, Culture Award for beauty moment of the year goes to… Zendaya's beat throughout 2026. I mean, I can't even narrow it down to one.

I was literally going to say Zendaya! That's so funny.

I think we can all agree on that. There are no snubs. No one will feel like it was a rigged thing. No, that's the rightful winner.

And Lisa Rinna would do a great job portraying it at the award show.

Oh, then we're going to give an honorary Lifetime Achievement Award to Lisa Rinna's lips. At this point, for decades—not to put a date on her—she has been really providing a service for the world for as long as she's been working.

Shop the Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Line

Alexandra Leclerc is multi-faceted. She's a model, fashion influencer, philanthropist, art historian, and Formula One WAG—a term widely used to refer to wives and girlfriends of professional athletes. In this case, it's Ferrari racing driver Charles Leclerc. The two recently wed in a civil ceremony earlier this year, during which she wore archival Chanel (NBD).

What happens when she combines her "signature approach" to beauty with Rhode's skin-first formulas and cool-girl aesthetic? The answer is a new celeb makeup collection, of course, and this one has some serious sell-out potential. Today, Rhode announced a "shimmery" collection in collaboration with Leclerc. It features three tiny blushes, a new Peptide Lip Tint, and two cute-as-can-be accessories. The items aren't available to shop until September 15 at 9 a.m. PST/12 p.m. EST, but you don't have to wait that long to get a first glimpse. Ahead, see all six luminous (and limited-edition) products.

According to a press release, Leclerc was the first-ever Rhode muse. In fact, Rhode superfans might recall that she starred in the 2024 Fall Lip Case campaign. That same year, she also co-hosted a Rhode dinner in Miami to coincide with F1.

Since the brand's internet-viral Pocket Blush ($25) is Leclerc's "everyday essential," she made it the star of her limited-edition collection. She co-created a mini Pocket Blush in three shimmery shades. She also co-created an exclusive Peptide Lip Tint ($20) and two accessories. It was all in an effort to capture her "signature approach to natural, luminous beauty."

Pocket Pearl

Sweet Apple Peptide Lip Tint

Rhode Accessories

Shop 5 Rhode Must-Haves

You know what they say: New season, new beauty routine! While I don't completely overhaul my entire regimen (a brown mascara and rosy-mauve lip liner will always be my failsafes), I do make a few strategic swaps for the sake of my already cluttered makeup bag. I also think it's a smart idea for an audit every now and then; chances are, I have some expired tubes lurking at the bottom of my Abbode waffle pouch. Sigh.

In the name of trying to become a makeup minimalist (trying is the operative word here), I'm being extremely selective when it comes to the formulas I'm holding onto this fall. If it doesn't blur my skin to perfection and make me look like a windswept angel á la Zendaya, it's not staying in my collection (well, at least until warmer weather rolls back around). Below, find all the items I'm giving up and their autumn-coded replacements—all of which I've personally tested and adore.

The Top 5 Makeup Swaps I'm Making for Fall 2026

1. Swapping Dewy Bases for Satin Finishes

The very first step in every fall makeup audit: Tweak your base. While summer is undoubtedly defined by dewy, poolside skin, autumn inspires diffused, cloudier finishes that resemble a soft-focus haze. Enter satin-skin foundations, which offers a happy medium for individuals (ahem, me) who don't want to stray too matte. They let your natural skin texture peek through but provide a smooth, blurring effect, which is exactly what I crave during crisper weather. Add some delicate pops of highlighter (more on that later), and you'll wind up with a romantic-looking beat that doesn't appear flat.

2. Swapping Peach Blush for Mauve Blush

With neutral-warm undertones, I basically own the peach blush category during summer. Trust me, I've tried every single one. But when the weather starts to cool, my peachy-coral obsession transforms into a mauve moment. The specific shade blends both warm and cool undertones, which makes it downright perfect for my middle-ground complexion. It's also extremely versatile: I can easily build up a mauve blush until it's rich and berry-like or stick to a subtle wash for some just-pinched color. I am forever and always a cream blush girl (no matter the season), but a couple powder options are calling my name for fall.

3. Swapping Shimmery Glosses for Blurring Tints

Similar to satin-skin foundations, there's something about an inky matte lip that just feels right for fall. I don't exactly lock my glosses away for the season (juicy lips will always have my heart), but the blurry lip launches right now are simply too good not to wear every day. I'm especially partial to a soft plum with just a touch of blush on my cheeks and my eyes left completely bare—my fall makeup uniform in a nutshell.

4. Swapping Wet Lids for Jewel Tones

Oh, but when I do wear eye makeup, I want it to be fun. I want it to be sparkly. I want it to be remembered. All summer, I'd just slap a pearly highlighter on my lids for an easy "wet" look and call it a day, but during fall—when there's no fear of sweating off my eye makeup by 12 p.m.—I'm down for something a little more intricate. A jewel-toned eyeliner or coat of mascara does a lot of the creating lifting without being too high maintenance. And the sparkly fall eye shadow palettes this season? Swoon.

5. Swapping Liquid Luminizers for Cream Highlighters

Absolutely no shade to Rhode's Highlighting Milk (love you, mean it!), but thin, liquid formulas do tend to take a back seat once cooler weather rolls around. See, mixing a glow-inducing milky toner with your foundation will lend a super-dewy, lit-from-within finish that's perfect for summer beats but might lean a bit too dewy for the aforementioned satin-skin looks. That said, I will never give up the glow entirely; I'll just strategically enhance the high points of my face with a pot of cream highlighter, which gives me much more control over the level of shine.

Fall's imminent return is glaringly obvious to me. Not just because there's suddenly an abundance of back-to-school advertisements and military jackets everywhere the eye can see in New York City, but because I'm already feeling the beauty editor itch to revamp my seasonal skincare routine. Even though the weather isn't quite matching up with long-sleeved styles just yet, everyone seems to be anticipating the return of autumn—though what I'm not looking forward to is the dull state my skin eventually fades into when the sun becomes scarce. But the latest addition to my beauty routine is one that I hoped and prayed would preserve my summer glow as the weather eventually cools off—and after a week of testing, it aced my test early.

"Glowy skin" took some time to gain a stronghold in the beauty community. Ten-plus years ago, everyone and their mother used and abused setting powder until their complexions were overly matte—inspiring phrases like “Flashback Mary” when the under-eyes were too bright and the camera flash too strong. More than anything, we were afraid of looking "oily." But along came the COVID-19 era, when we saw a distinct shift towards pared-back makeup and overly moisturized skin—enter the TikTok phrase "clean girl." With it came the rise of “glass skin," or complexions so deeply hydrated that they shone like window panes, and a slew of glowy highlight serums that gave the appearance of healthy radiance. From celebrity brands to your mother’s favorite line, everyone was injecting pearlescent pigment into their skin products. But where, oh where, was the skincare?

This is the question Priscilla Tsai, founder of budget-, inclusivity-, and eco-conscious skincare brand Cocokind, asked herself as glowy products promising the look of quenched skin continued to fall flat when it came to actual nourishment. "When we looked at the illuminators already out there—and when we listened to what our community was telling us about them—the pattern was pretty clear: they'd been developed with a makeup-first mindset, not a skincare one," she tells Who What Wear. Tsai rattles off qualities like pigment load, pearl size, and finish as common offenders, doing zilch other than making the skin look shiny (and, to add injury to insult, drawing attention to texture and pores).

"Unlike a lot of makeup-first illuminators, we built the glow and the skincare together, rather than treating one as decoration on the other. The formula is doing real work—ceramides and rice lipids to replenish and lock in moisture, urea to draw in hydration and keep skin feeling soft and cushiony, rice bran and licorice root to support a healthier-looking glow over time," she adds. "It's hydrating enough that if you're a lighter-moisturizer person, this may be enough on its own. That's not usually true of an illuminator." Say hello to Cocokind's newest creation, the Soft-Glow Illuminator.

About Cocokind's Soft-Glow Illuminator

Concocted specifically for those with sensitive skin, this gentle serum is enriched with ceramides and rice lipids to smooth, plump, and soothe your barrier. The clinically tested formula was proven to offer immediate luminosity, all-day hydration, and a filter-like glow—all while being suitable for acne-prone skin and not settling into fine lines. It comes in one champagne shimmer shade that works across all skin tones, made from ultra-fine pearls that throw light and blur imperfections to create an even and smooth finish.

"A lot of the work went into the pearl, which is what’s giving this formula its gorgeous glow and finish," she explains. To find a truly universally flattering tone that doesn't streak or settle, Tsai and her team created a blend of four different pearl sizes and shades to appease every type of user. "That's where a lot of the makeup-first illuminators land somewhere different from us: their pearls may be large, or very frosty, so the glow sits on top of the skin and catches unevenly," she continues. "A blended fine pearl diffuses light instead of bouncing it back hard, so what you see is radiance rather than sparkle. Which means you can't really go wrong with it, whether you're full glam or no glam."

My Review

I own a fair share of the internet's favorite glow-enhancing makeup bases, from Rhode's Highlight Milk to L'Oréal's Lumi Glotion. While my plentiful collection offers instant radiance and comforting hydration, I couldn't say that any of these formulas felt truly weightless on my skin. That was, until I tried this featherlight serum.

Though its barely there texture isn't one of the product's spelled-out selling points, it's the one thing that kept me reaching for it during a week of sticky-hot New York summer weather. Something as lightweight as a daytime moisturizer can feel too emollient when the humidity hits my skin, earning this liquid an instant spot in my everyday lineup. The first two ingredients listed on the product label are water and glycerin, meaning that hydration, moisturization, and fast absorption are a given, and the results were impressive, absorbing into my skin in less than 20 seconds. (Yes, I timed it.)

If you think I stopped there, you'd be wrong. I like a multitasker, so I watched how it played with my other everyday products. One pump of Westman Atelier's new Supreme Bio-Complex Foundation mixed with Cocokind's Soft-Glow Illuminator offered my skin a glow so ethereal that Ernesto Casillas, mid-Zendaya's glam for the NYC Odyssey premiere, probably would have approved. I was also impressed by the price tag, which clocked in at just $19. Compared to other popular iterations on the market today, combining high-quality ingredients and superior texture into one $20 product is no small feat. In short, it checked all the boxes while feeling lighter, airier, and looking less orange than many of the illuminators that came before it.

How to Apply Like a Pro

Tsai recommends a few different application techniques for the best results. However, she always recommends it as the last step in your skincare routine, following cleanser, serum, moisturizer, and SPF. (Think of it as the shiny top coat of your manicure.)

"Apply it all over the face rather than just the high points—it's built for even, all-over luminosity," she starts. "You can layer it under your complexion products or mix a little into them. Layering underneath gives you that lit-from-within base; mixing gives you buildable radiance through the whole finish," she adds. You can even amp up your body glow game by adding a few pumps into a dollop of body lotion. However, she advises users to avoid mixing it into the SPF. "Apply your sunscreen after, or if you want more glow later in the day, let your SPF dry down and pat a little on top," she recommends. And don't be afraid to take the glow down to your décolleté, chest, arms, and legs. "The airless pump makes an all-over glow easy without wasting product," she explains.

You can shop the Soft-Glow Illuminator as of right now, but I wouldn't wait to press purchase. With its supermodel glow and agreeable price, this glowy serum surely won't stay in stock long. Snag it and other Cocokind best-sellers below now.

Shop Top Cocokind Products

Now and again, a nail trend comes along that is so good, it convinces me to ditch my milky manicure altogether. I'm a neutral nail gal through and through, but occasionally I will switch things up, especially at the start of a new season. So, when I saw the "milky matcha" manicure on Instagram, I was instantly sold.

Stylish, creamy and cool, a milky matcha manicure feels like the perfect autumnal take on my usual milky mani. I first spotted this trend on expert nail artist Mateja Novakovic's account. The creamy green hue immediately caught my attention, as it looked soft and subtle whilst still incorporating one of this season's biggest shades. Novakovic used Manucurist's brand-new Milky Matcha nail polish to create this look, which I plan on adding to my basket ASAP.

Below, I've rounded up some of my favourite milky matcha nail looks, along with Manucurist's polish (and more milky matcha shades), so you can recreate the look at home. You are welcome...

Milky Matcha Nail Trend

This is the manicure that convinced me to ditch my neutral polish.

The nail shape, the colour...I love everything about this look.

Milky matcha nail art, anyone?

Pair your polish with a high-shine top coat for a salon-worthy finish.

The Best Products for Milky Matcha Nails

It might just be because of the what felt like never-ending heatwave we had here in the UK this summer, but I’m really starting to feel the chill in the air. And, as a makeup lover, I can only think about one thing: swapping out my simple beauty routines for heavier makeup trends perfectly suited to the autumnal weather. Gone are the days when overly hot temperatures meant I could only throw on a tinted SPF and a simple brown lip gloss, and in their place lies an opportunity to experiment with bolder makeup looks that let me express my creativity. And there’s no better way to do this than by looking at the trends set to dominate the season.

My first port of call for finding out these trends? Well, as someone who works in beauty, I’m lucky enough to have a contact book filled with professional makeup artists who, thanks to their years of experience, can get ahead of the pack and predict the hottest trends before anyone else. And last week I sat down with Fara Homidi, a New York-based makeup artist and founder of makeup brand Fara Homidi, to discover the five makeup trends that are set to be huge in autumn 2026. Working across runway shows and campaigns for the likes of Miu Miu, Hermès, Chloé, Ferragamo, Coperni and Off-White, Homidi is well-versed in predicting trends before they hit the mainstream. And the best part? I’ve rounded them up for you below so that you too can be in the know about the makeup trends that will dominate autumn 2026.

From cool-toned lips reminiscent of the ‘90s to future-forward two-toned eyelashes, keep scrolling to discover the five easy-to-recreate trends that I’m planning to try out this season.

1. Cashmere Eyes

Homidi says, "I’m predicting we’re going to see a lot more cashmere-coded eye looks this autumn. Take a soft taupe, warm brown or deep espresso depending on your skin tone and wash it around the entire eye for a soft, minky haze of colour. It should feel monochromatic, diffused and incredibly soft around the edges, almost like cashmere for the eyes. Finish with a brown mascara on both the top and bottom lashes to keep everything tonal, and the result will be a plush, soft-brown eye that feels effortless but still very considered for autumn."

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2. Cool-Toned Lips

"It’s official: the cool-toned lips that dominated the ‘90s are back for autumn 2026. But instead of an obvious one-dimensional liner, focus on creating a buffed-out, sculpted lip through layers of cool-toned neutrals. To do this, you’ll need to take a gradient of soft, medium and deeper taupe lip pencils and layer them strategically to create natural-looking dimension and a fuller, 3D pout. The softer shades diffuse and blend the contour while the deepest tone creates the structure and dimension. It’s less about an obviously lined lip and more about using colour to manipulate shape and volume. And I may have something coming later this autumn that will do just the trick...", says Homidi

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3. Weathered Cheeks

Homidi states that, "Instead of an overly pigmented blush look, why not try giving your cheeks a natural, windswept effect, like you’ve just come inside after a cold day or spent the afternoon skiing? Known by beauty insiders as the 'weathered cheeks' trend, you can get this look by applying a low-to-medium coverage blush toward the lower mid-face. Then use a translucent, natural-looking highlighter across the high points of the cheeks and even the eyelids to bring back a glowy, champagne sheen. It’s that contrast between cold-weather colour and fresh, reflective skin that makes it feel modern."

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4. Soft-Focus Skin

"Forget the dewy makeup looks we all opted for in summer, as well as the overly matte finishes that can often make the face feel dry; for autumn 2026, it’s all about skin that sits somewhere in the middle. Think about the way makeup looked in film photography throughout the 1990’s—softly diffused and blurred whilst still looking like skin. With radiance, but not an obvious shine, and coverage without the complexion ever feeling flat, the goal season isn’t flawless, but rather beautifully softened skin.", explains Homidi

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5. Two-Toned Lashes

Homidi says, "An updated, modern take on a 60’s eye, two-toned lashes create a unique sense of depth and dimension to your makeup looks. Not to mention, it looks extremely intentional and elevated, acting as an incredibly simple switch that changes the entire feeling of the eye. For a more natural look, opt for a black mascara on the upper lashes for definition and intensity, then a soft brown on the lower lashes for a softer, smokier contrast. Or go bold and add in a cobalt blue or rich burgundy that is sure to turn heads and earn you compliments."

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We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they’re affordable favourites or luxury investments. Our product selection is based on tangible results, ingredient know-how and what we’d truly recommend to a friend.

Whilst January marks the official start of the year, September is a new beginning in itself. Even as an adult, I still get that seasonal itch to head to a WH Smith for a fresh set of stationery and a pencil case. It marks the start of a new season, where many of us enjoy that scholastic nostalgia whilst simultaneously embracing new beauty trends, whether a new haircut or making some autumnal switches in our makeup bags. In beauty, September carries the same energy as a new academic term.

For many, school photo day immortalised the best (but mostly the worst) in our beauty discoveries at school. At 13, I vividly remember curling just the front sections of my hair with my GHD straighteners, applying four coats of two different Rimmel and Maybelline mascaras and overplucking my left eyebrow with tweezers stolen from my mum's makeup bag the morning of photo day. By the time I sat down in front of the mottled blue photo screen, the curls had dropped despite copious amounts of hairspray, and my wonky brow looked extra surprised as the photographer chirped, "Say cheese!"

Nearly two decades on (and an eyebrow re-growth journey later), I've thankfully learned most of my beauty lessons. That being said, I often yearn for that sense of experimentation during school years, and the novelty of discovering new beauty products or trying a hairstyle for the first time. And with the arrival of autumn, in my opinion, there is no better time to try something new. There are both benefits and fun to be had from a seasonal hair switch-up, or shaking up the uniform of our makeup bags. So, notepads at the ready; ahead, we're championing back-to-school beauty, with three school-inspired looks alongside tips and tricks from the pros to inspire your beauty routine for autumn. Class is in session.

Lesson One: A Study in Blush

First on autumn's curriculum, blusher. Specifically, A fresh-faced glow you'd have from a morning darting around the hockey pitch, or locking eyes with your crush in the year above in the school corridor. Rather than placing blusher high up on the cheekbones, which we've become accustomed to over recent years, experiment with a lower placement. Not only does it feel modern and fresh, but the makeup trend gives youthful playfulness that brings a healthy glow to your complexion. "Going into autumn, I tend to veer from that dewy, bronzed summer skin, and lean into a more velvety satin skin finish," says makeup artist Faye Bluff. "I also tend to push the cheek placement back, gently sculpting and highlighting from the ears forward, rather than the sun-kissed bronzers through the centre of the face," she says.

The Homework: Swap your cream blush for a powder formula, which gives the complexion a more realistic, skin-like flush, and focus the placement lower on the cheeks. Here, Bluff used Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Matte Bouncy Blush in Thriving (£26) and Grateful (£26), and Violette_FR Plume Blush in Rose Fumé (£35). Both have a plush texture that lends a healthy glow to the apples of your cheeks.

Extra-Curricular Credit: Autumn hair needn't require a drastic hair colour transformation or haircut. Instead, it can be as simple as switching your parting or adding hair accessories to your style, says hairstylist Masayoshi Fujita. "I think the easiest thing is simply changing your hair parting. There’s no real risk, but it can completely change the feeling of your hairstyle," he says. "I’d also recommend trying some new hair accessories, like clips or scrunchies in a different colour. It’s a really simple way to refresh your look without making a big change." Miu Miu's pink hair clips are both chic and delightfully nostalgic.

Lesson Two: Giving Lip

Whilst we might have been subjected to uniform rules at school, autumn feels like an apt time to go forth with a distinctively rebellious spirit. If a bright, glossy lip would have landed you straight in detention at school, then take this as your sign to try it again. "I’m excited about makeup feeling a bit more individual again. I love seeing texture, colour and imperfection rather than everyone chasing the same hyper-perfect skin or identical lip shape," says Bluff.

For hair, we're following suit, embracing our natural texture in all its glory. "Hair is a form of personal expression. So rather than following one specific hair trend, I’m more interested in people expressing who they are—their background and their own character," says Fujita. "The fashion industry is embracing the rawness and natural character of hair rather than making it look too stiff or overly controlled," he says

The Homework: Go all out with bright, juicy persimmon or berry-toned lip gloss for a lacquered finish. Here, Bluff used Gucci Rouge à Lèvres Voile Lipstick in Agatha Orange (£40) and Gucci Gloss à Lèvres Plumping Lip Gloss in Sadie Coral (£36), with Kiko Milano Smart Fusion Lip Pencil in Lively Pink (£5) for a bright pop of colour.

Extra-Curricular Credit: Work with your natural hair texture, enlisting the help of curl creams or texturising mists to enhance its natural movement. "I wanted to keep both looks quite dry and natural, so I didn’t use much product," says Fujita. "I used a small amount of Hair by Sam McKnight Cool Girl Barely There Texture Mist (£29) through the ends of the hair, and a little Schwarzkopf Professional Osis+ Shine Spray (£17) on the top. I also used GHD Perfect Ending Hairspray (£15) at the beginning to control and hold the shape," he says.

Lesson Three: Colour Theory

The final lesson of the term? To play with colourful eyeshadow again. After seasons of bare lids and no mascara on the runways, for A/W 26, we're finally seeing colourful eyeshadows once again. From painterly daubs of apple green on the lids at Acne Studios to sparkling silver at Chanel, now's the time to try those rule-breaking hues. But you needn't have the skills of an MUA or an A* in GCSE art to get involved. "A wash of olive or taupe using your finger feels much more modern than a perfectly blended smoky eye," says Bluff. And if you're not ready for saturated shades, you can still tap into the mood. "For eyes, introduce more of those traditional autumnal tones, but keep the application quite undone," she says.

The Homework: Look to sheer washes of colour in vibrant tones, but don't stress about the application. One rule to break? "The idea that makeup has to be 'perfect'," says Bluff. "Perfection, symmetry and over-analysed colour theory is boring. Great makeup looks best when it sits alongside your features and becomes an extension of your character. Not an overworked, technically 'perfect' stamp on top," she says. Take your pick from Chanel's Les 9 Ombres in The New Singular (£130), or go for a solo shadow, such as Kiko Milano's Water Shadow in Violet (£12).

Extra-Curricular Credit: Once you've curated your autumn makeup bag, look to simple swaps to keep your makeup feeling modern. "Once you have your tried-and-trusted makeup 'uniform' down, you can start to play with changes in colour or texture. Burgundy mascara is my current favourite switch-out for a subtle autumnal pop," says Bluff.

Photographer: Jakub Gessler
Editor-in-Chief: Jane McFarland
Beauty Director: Shannon Lawlor
Models: Belle McDonnell at Storm Management and Beatrix Pimentel at Linden Staub
Makeup Artist: Faye Bluff at Agency of Substance
Makeup Assistant: Francesca Quagliatta at Agency of Substance
Hairstylist: Masayoshi Fujita at Agency of Substance using Hair by Sam McKnight
Hair Assistant: Kei Koshigoe at Agency of Substance
Manicurist: Ami Streets using Essie
Stylist: Remy Farrell
Fashion Assistant: Imani-Nia Francis-Tsolakis
Photography Assistants: Chris Greenway and James Newlands
Production: Town Productions

If there's one thing that everyone seems to want to change in autumn, it's their hair colour. Whilst I've stayed true to my blonde balayage for years now, everyone around me seems desperate to switch up their shade. From deep brunettes to striking copper hues, there are lots of autumnal hair colour trends to choose from, but as a beauty editor, I'm keen to know what new shades are taking over this season. So, I thought it was only right to go straight to the experts.

I asked not one, not two, but three of Hershesons' top hair stylists, and they all weighed in on this autumn's biggest hair colour trends. From classic colours reimagined to striking new hues that will be most requested in salons this season, there are so many stylish hair colours to choose from that it's even convincing me to book an appointment.

If you've also found yourself thinking about trying something new this September, I highly suggest you keep on scrolling...

6 of the Biggest Autumn Hair Colour Trends 2026

1. Amber-Veiled Blonde

First up, this stunning "amber-veiled" blonde hue. "This is perfect for naturally darker blondes and brunettes," says James Samuel, colourist at Hershesons Belgravia. "[It features] scattered, softly defined pieces of a rich, intense golden shade. This gives a dimensional finish that looks luxe." If you went brighter for summer but want to tone your blonde hair down a little bit for the autumn months, I think this trend is perfect.

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2. Toasted Copper

It wouldn't be autumn without a striking copper shade, and toasted copper is the one to watch this season. "[This is] a muted red brown combing depth and rich tone," explains Samuel. "An intentional deep bronze tone that’s subtle and understated."

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3. Naked Blonde

Another blonde hair trend I am currently loving is "naked blonde". "[Think] hair that matches your skin: seamless, flattering shades that feel custom-made," says Nicole Kahlani, colourist at Hershesons Fitzrovia. "For textured hair, favour honey blondes and dark caramels—warm, curl‑friendly tones over icy platinum. Deeper/olive skin suits fudge, caramel and burnt terracotta [shades], whilst fair skin looks best in muted, runway‑soft versions."

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4. "Greige" Brunette

According to Kahlani, this season, mousy blonde is getting its moment. "Think Mia Goth," she says. "A grey‑metal finish, soft ends and barely‑there dimension. It's perfect for a bleach break — subtle shimmer or a touch of brightness keeps it fresh without going full brunette."

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5. Sandy Blonde

"[Sandy blonde] is the perfect seasonal transition for brighter blondes wanting to soften their colour and embrace something a little more dimensional," says Hannah Gayle, colourist at Hershesons Belgravia. "Think sandy, creamy tones with added depth and richness, creating a beautifully lived-in blonde that feels warmer and more luxurious for the colder months."

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6. Deep Brunette

Last but not least, let's talk about this deep brunette hue. "It’s no surprise that glossy, richer brunettes are having their moment again," says Gayle. "[This is] the perfect transition into autumn, embracing deeper chocolate and chestnut tones, elevated with beautiful dimension, depth and a luxurious, glass-like shine."

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Look, I get it. Smelling "rich" is entirely subjective. Some people swear there's nothing fancier than a whiff of jasmine in a perfume, whilst others reach for a smoky cognac-infused bottle when they want to smell sophisticated. It all boils down to your olfactory memories, or the link between a scent and its lavish past. It's the leathery smell of a luxury handbag or the powdery musk of your mother's signature red lipstick. For me? Iris smells wildly expensive. I associate it with a well-loved cashmere sweater, one you'd find draped over the shoulders of a woman who somehow always looks put-together—classic, soft and painfully chic.

When I saw that Guerlain's newest scent (its first women's fragrance launch in almost 10 years, by the way) put the pretty note in the forefront, I knew I'd consider it a rich-smelling staple. Five weeks later, I firmly stand by the assessment. In fact, I'd go so far as to say that the fragrance makes you smell like an effortlessly chic French lady. After all, this is Guerlain we're talking about! If you're on the hunt for a new signature scent this season, I'd highly suggest scrolling ahead.

Guerlain L'Heure Bleue, Reviewed

As I mentioned, the perfume calls upon two special types of iris—a butter and a tincture, to be exact. These unique forms express differently on the skin, according to master perfumer Delphine Jelk, Guerlain's director of perfume creation. The proprietary tincture, which took Jelk three years to create, is "more airy, more diffusive, more immediate," she says. "It is a top note. It brings freshness, lightness, and an additional soul that envelops the entire fragrance, whereas iris butter is denser and sits more at the heart of the composition." Both types give the fragrance its noticeably soft, creamy, suede-like aroma without overpowering the senses. "Like an Impressionist painting, the fragrance has a strong presence but never overwhelms," Jelk adds.

While the first spritz may remind you of the petal-soft cheeks of your grandmother, it won't make you smell like powdery makeup. That's because Jelk included a contemporary blend of vanilla and Ambroxan in the composition, which cuts through the tenderness of the iris, marshmallow, and orange blossom. "Their combination is delicious," she notes. "Ambroxan brings a skin-like sensuality, almost salty, which tempers the sweetness of vanilla. Together, they create the effect of warm, sun-kissed skin."

She then spiked it with an ozonic accord powered by a synthetic aquatic molecule called Cascalone, which evokes fresh air. "I wanted to express a contrast between warmth and freshness, between the sensuality of fragrance on skin and the cool air that creates a shiver," she shares. This contrast gives it a touch of mystery that you can't quite put your finger on, which makes it even more alluring. In fact, the very first day I wore it home from the office, my husband immediately asked me if I tried a new fragrance. When I asked him to describe what he liked about it (a beauty editor's version of a pop quiz), he replied, "I can't explain it, but it smells really nice."

Essentially, the result is meant to transport you to a breezy twilight evening, when your skin clings to the day's warmth yet the air around you feels unmistakably crisp. Jelk describes it as "that precise moment when day is gone and night has not yet arrived—a moment of transition." This time of the year is a collective moment of transition. Summer hasn't totally disappeared from the rearview, yet the earthy colour palettes and sumptuous fabrics of autumn have already dominated the zeitgeist. L'Heure Bleue is the perfect scent to mark that shift, as it's not overwhelmingly summery (read: bright) or densely autumn-coded. "It is this contrast—between warmth and freshness, between intimacy and air—that makes it so right for that moment at the end of summer, when one season gently slips into another," Jelk agrees. Consider it the happy medium that makes you smell rich year-round.

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