As of July 22, Leo season has officially begun, injecting a sense of adventure, bold spontaneity, and confidence into the air. Those with Leo placements are often described as being the most physically representative of their fiery sign thanks to fabulously voluminous hair (a nod to their lion symbol), striking eyes, and a heightened sense of style. This combination casts an undeniably magnetic aura around these summer babies. Think Dua Lipa, Alex Consani, and Halle Berry. It's as if there is a gravitational pull turning all heads and conversations in their direction. But even if you're not a Leo, you, too, can bask in the shimmering light of this confident sign, especially with these products that turn up the heat on your summer glam.

Whether you're draping your skin in shimmery body oil or zhuzhing your hair with texturizing spray, these Leo-like products will shift all the attention to you. Below, see the 15 products I'd recommend trying before August to channel your inner lion.

15 Beauty Products for Leo Season

Hilary Duff is currently on the Lucky Me Tour, her first major headlining tour in almost 20 years. (The unenlightened might call it a comeback, but millennials know that she never really left the collective consciousness...not since her Lizzie McGuire days.) Her set list is a mix of 2000s hits (So Yesterday, Why Not, and Come Clean) and new songs from her latest LP, Luck...Or Something. The vibe is 2026 meets the early-2000s, and her on-tour beauty aesthetic reflects it. Think undone waves, glowing skin, and a hint of playful shimmer. "The sparkly, frosted eye is a playful nod to the Y2K era, while fresh, radiant skin keeps the overall look current and true to Hilary's style now," her makeup artist, Taylor Healey, tells me.

Every good makeup look starts with proper skin prep, but it's paramount before a demanding stage performance, when sweat, outfit changes, bright lights and high-def cameras are in play. "It really starts with the skin prep," Healey says. "Making sure the skin is exfoliated and hydrated makes all the difference in how the makeup wears and performs...Then finishing with a good setting powder and setting spray to help protect the makeup from the elements and transfer during quick-changes!"

Healey starts every session with Dermalogica skincare products, before moving on to a few stage-proof makeup essentials. Fortunately for us, she's sharing all the behind-the-scenes details. Ahead, see a selection of the products she relies on.

The Skin Prep

The Makeup

Few makeup artists harbor star power similar to their famous clientele. Pat McGrath climbed the ranks as an editorial makeup artist for top fashion houses, gaining a following of fans that included A-list names like Taylor Swift and Naomi Campbell. McGrath quickly became a golden fixture in both the beauty and fashion industries herself. Mario Dedivanovic, affectionately known as Makeup by Mario, earned a name so closely intertwined with Kim Kardashian's that his own instills the same shock and awe as the celebrity herself. It takes years of muscle, grit, and painterly finesse for a makeup artist to ascend to the same astral plane as their famous subjects, and one person we spy making the same journey is Saudi Arabia–born, Los Angeles–based 29-year-old makeup artist Yasmin Istanbouli.

Passive beauty fans may be hearing Istanbouli's name for the first time, but everyone with a smidge of interest in pop culture has seen her handiwork. The burgeoning artist has been by Charli XCX's side since before the birth of Brat, launching a new era and look for the ever-evolving pop star and inspiring the masses to shift from clean girl beauty to pared-back party girl makeup in 2024. Two years later, Istanbouli has played a prominent role in forging the modern definition of grunge—an unfussy, editorial iteration shaped by her sharp photographer's eye.

To sit in the makeup artist's chair is to be reinforced as an It girl, and notable faces like Olivia Rodrigo, Nara Smith, Madison Beer, and Amelia Gray (we could go on) have been transformed beneath her brushes into sleeker, edgier versions of themselves. To see their faces on her Instagram is to look at the stars, their teams, publicists, and agents with an arched brow of approval. "You know about her too?"

From the smoky, smudged shadows of Charli XCX and Troye Sivan's Sweat tour to Hilary Duff's sculpted features and Camila Cabello's onstage glam, Instanbouli is slowly but surely etching her name among the greats. Keep reading to see what makes her her—from her creative inspirations to memories of meddling in her mother's makeup and the items on her "someday" shopping list.

Are you based in L.A.?

Yes, based in L.A. I'm from Saudi Arabia, and I moved to L.A. at the end of 2021. I came here for college but officially got my work visa by the end of 2021, so I've been here ever since.

What made you want to go into beauty? Was this always the plan after college, or was it what brought you out west?

Where I'm from in Saudi is coastal; it's very similar to L.A., in a way. When I first visited L.A. when I was in middle school (we just came for a summer vacation), I just loved it, so I always knew that I wanted to live here at some point. When I was in college, I actually wanted to get into photography, so I did a lot of video editing, photography, film photography, and animation. I didn't know exactly what I wanted to do, but I knew I wanted to be in the photography world.

Then, in junior year of college, I got really into RuPaul's Drag Race—like, obsessed with watching them do their makeup—and I started getting stoned and sitting in my bathroom for hours doing drag makeup on myself with my friends for fun. Then I started playing around with makeup and buying more, like Urban Decay, all of their palettes. But when I graduated college, stepping into the photography world sounded scary to me because I felt like I wasn't that technical of a person, so I talked to my mom about doing makeup.

Priscilla Ono, who's Rihanna's makeup artist, had a three-day course in L.A. coming up right after I graduated from college, so my mom gifted me a ticket as a graduation present. We didn't expect anything to come out of it. I just wanted to do it, but that was the light-bulb [moment]. Of course, she taught us about the business and the more technical side of [the industry], but she was giving me such great feedback that I thought, "Oh, maybe I could do this professionally."

At just 29, you did not start doing this that long ago!

It's kind of funny because this is my job, and I'm obviously so lucky to do this. For where I'm at and for my age, it may seem like I got a very quick, strong start, but it's all Instagram, to be honest. I've just been doing the Instagram thing for a while.

How did Instagram become a conduit for you?

Ever since I was a high school student in Saudi, I was very interested in photography. I also loved L.A., so I was following a lot of L.A. people, and I was obsessed with Tumblr. I was very much curating a classic aesthetic on my Instagram, and I got really into it during college too. I've also had a public account since high school, which is kind of controversial for a girl in Saudi. I remember my dad was like, "Your Instagram is public?!" So I was very into putting myself out there.

When I started doing makeup, I was just hitting up the L.A. models—the girls that I was following for a while—and was like, "Can I do your makeup for free? We'll just take some pictures, whatever." That was what got the ball rolling because then those girls would post and tag me even though I didn't have a name at that point. That's where Instagram helped.

You and Charli must really jive because you understand the artistic side of things, especially with this upcoming album, Music, Fashion, Film. You two are such a synergetic pairing in that way.

I don't know if I'm not giving myself enough credit (I haven't been doing this for that long, so I still have a lot to learn), but I feel like people are hiring me because of vibes. Charli and I really get along, and it just makes the makeup process easier. She trusts me. I remember the first time I met her. She told me two things, and I still stick by it to this day: "I don't like covering my under-eyes, and I love gray." So ever since then, I've just stuck to that, and she's such an easy person to work with. Beautiful face. It's like a match made in heaven.

When did you first work together? I feel like we were introduced to this grungier look in the Brat era, but do you two predate that album?

We started working together pre-Brat. I was introduced to her through an incredible hairstylist, Fitch Lunar, who's probably known Charli for 15 years. We were at a shoot, and he was like, "Do you know Charli XCX?" I was like, "Yeah, of course." This is what I mean when I say it's all vibes. He said, "I feel like you guys would get along." He told her about me, and then not too long after that, she hit me up to do her makeup when she came out as a surprise guest at a Caroline Polachek concert in L.A. in 2023. After that, she started booking me for little things here and there, and then it really took off when she booked me for tour.

You are literally responsible for the Brat makeup trend. That's wild!

It's also her, though! When I look up pictures of Charli in her past eras, she was really into glam and color and glitter. But for Brat, from very early on, she said, "I just want it to be very stripped back and more me," which is how I love to do makeup. So it's very, very collaborative. Some days, she'd say, "I want nothing," and then other days, she'd be like, "Let's do a messy, black eye." We were just doing it on the fly during tour, really.

Between the tour girls, it's you and Sophia Sinot. It's your work with Charli, and it's Sophia with Zara Larsson. Those are the girls to watch.

Stop it! To be put up next to Sophia Sinot… I'm honored.

It's true! We need a collab someday. But let's take things back to the beginning. What or who comes to mind when you think of your first memories of makeup?

Definitely my mom. I still remember her Chanel lipstick. She loves Chanel nail polish and lipstick to this day. I was obsessed with her lipstick, even the smell of it. She had a gorgeous vanity, and my mom doesn't wear much makeup, but she always had so much of it. I remember grabbing her Chanel lipstick and then, obviously, covering my whole mouth, and then I suddenly dropped and smashed it.

What a chic mom.

When [Charli and I] were on tour or traveling together and I'd wear an outfit, people would be like, "That's so cute. Where'd you get it?" And I'm like, "It's my mom's." My whole closet is my mom's vintage.

You have such an impressive client list, from Charli to Olivia Rodrigo, Nara Smith, Madison Beer, and beyond. Who is still a dream client of yours?

I have a few! I recently worked with Olivia Rodrigo, who was definitely on my list. Love her. And as someone who's half Palestinian, Bella Hadid. Bella's makeup artist, Nadia Tayeh, is also Palestinian, and she's amazing. She's my idol, and they're a match made in heaven. We actually just ran into each other in passing. We were working with two different clients at the same hotel in New York, and I was a full-on fangirl.

Love Hailey [Bieber], and I would also love [to work with] Jenna Ortega. I think she's really fucking cool; she's so stunning and so low-key. Hannah Einbinder too—I love her. Obviously, this is my job, and some days, it's not a personal thing, but I really want to work with people that are aligned in terms of morals and what we care about. That's a big deal to me.

Yes, 100%. Your roster is filled with quite the crew of fashion people too, and you fit right in. How would you describe your personal style?

I love being comfortable. When I was in college, I was wearing Dickies, Converse, and my dad's T-shirts. I didn't tap into my feminine side at that point in my life, so when I moved to L.A. and lived with my best friend… She has the classic tube tops, miniskirts, big hoops, lashes, and a tan. She looks so hot and confident. She started letting me borrow her clothes. At that point, I really tapped into my feminine side.

I love basics—a good pair of jeans, a good jacket—but it depends on what I'm doing. I don't consider myself a fashion girl, but I feel really good when I'm wearing a good leather jacket and a good tank top. I have a lot of Skims, Brandy Melville, and Tank Air and always a good pair of jeans. My mom always says that you know someone has good taste when they wear good shoes, so I'm trying to elevate my shoe game right now.

What are three things on your shopping wish list right now?

I love a good YSL or ACNE Studios leather jacket. I have so many leather jackets. They last forever. Oh, and I want to get ballet flats with a pump from Repetto or somewhere similar. And I mean, anything from The Row—someday, I'll get there.

My mom is the blueprint for me, and she loves to shop. Every time I go back to Saudi, she's just giving me things, like her OG 2001 Balenciaga City Bag, so I don't need to shop. I feel like that's why I don't know if I have good taste or not, because I'm just taking from her.

It's called inherited taste! Who are your fashion and beauty references?

Of course, Charli. She can just go out in a T-shirt and baggy jeans and look amazing. I also love Alex Consani. When she wears no makeup and has her hair down, she's just so chic to me. Alex can look very casual chic or high fashion but always effortlessly. I just think she's extremely, extremely cool. I've worked with her once, but she's definitely high up there on my list of people whose makeup I want to do. It was a long time ago, and I need a rerun.

In that same vein, where do you usually like to shop? In your mom's closet, I'm sure.

My mom's closet, for sure! I'm not much of a shopper, but when I do shop… Charli and I went to Nordic Poetry in London and found some really cute stuff. Lara Koleji and Procell in New York. There's this one store in L.A. that I haven't been to but really want to: Staklena Kuća. Kate Berlant, who is very chic (she's a comedian and has amazing style), told me about that store. I'm more of a vintage shopper, so if I'm buying new things, I'm usually just getting basics.

If my wallet allows it, definitely ACNE. Love The RealReal, also Gimaguas and Paloma Wool. I went to a Paloma Wool pop-up in London and bought a lot. I'm really into accessorizing right now. I love a cute scarf with a leather jacket, a tank top, and jeans.

On the other hand, what beauty brands and products do you love to collect?

I love Dior makeup. I use a lot of Dior on myself, and my mom always had a lot of it. Once I got into makeup, she would give me some of her products to use on myself, and a lot of it was Dior. I love the packaging, their palettes, and I have a lot of them. You know how makeup artists depot products. We take all the eye shadow palettes out of the actual packaging and put them in a bigger palette. I feel like I can't do that with the Dior ones. I'm like, "They're so precious and gorgeous!"

Another brand that's a staple for every makeup artist is MAC. They just have everything! I love their mascaras, lip liners, lipsticks, skin products, all of it. I've been really into Haus Labs and Merit. I have a drawer dedicated to Merit. I gave a Complexion Stick to each of my sisters. We all have very similar complexions, and whenever I'm with them and I have it out, they try it and are like, "Oh my god, this is amazing." So I just keep giving them Merit Complexion Sticks!

Fill in the blank: I feel most confident when ________.

I feel most confident when I'm having a good hair day. My hair is my armor. I like having long hair, and whenever I cut it, I'm instantly insecure, but when I'm having a good hair day—because it's just also hard to manage (I have frizzy hair)—I feel unstoppable.

Last question: What's your star sign, and do you think it reflects who you are?

I'm a Cancer sun, Virgo rising, and Leo moon. I've always felt very connected to my sign. I'm a Cancer, so I'm obviously very sensitive, and I do consider myself a nurturer. I am very much a sensitive girl, and I think Leos are, out of all the fire signs, the more sensitive ones. Charli's a Leo! I love Leos, and they're really fun.

Dedicated sale shoppers know that finding good deals takes a careful eye, heaps of patience, and the discernment of when to strike. If you wait for the percentage to drop just a smidge lower as the sale wanes, you risk losing out on the treasure altogether if it sells out. You might walk into an event as vast as the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale and become so overwhelmed that you, yet again, walk away with nothing.

As a beauty editor, I spend about 80% of my workday surfing the internet for the next best product on the market, which means that I'm in the business of finding the top deals at any sale. Lucky for you, I spent hours evaluating which early access beauty deals in Nordstrom's never-ending inventory are actually worth snagging before the sale opens to the public on July 18. If you're a card member, you can access this sale as early as today, July 14 (at Icon status); Ambassadors can shop July 15, and Influencers can shop July 17—with the sale drawing to a close on August 9.

While it may sound like you have quite some time to shop this sale, heed my warning from before—with deals this good, none of these products will stay in stock for long. Below, the 15 deals I'd beeline for in the early access beauty section of Nordstrom's 125th Anniversary Sale, from iconic Le Labo perfumes (you know the one!) to covetable Dyson hair dryers and more.

The 15 Top Beauty Deals to Shop Early at Nordstrom's Anniversary Sale

I've spent the best part of my beauty career perfecting my "no makeup" makeup look, and if I'm being honest, more often than not, this doesn't involve mascara. I've tried some of the best mascaras out there, from affordable mascaras to tubing formulas and even mascaras for sensitive eyes, but I find that they make my makeup look a little too "done". Well, that was the case until I discovered a small collection of natural-looking mascaras that took my "no makeup" makeup game to the next level.

It seems that brands are becoming more aware that some of us want fluttery, natural-looking lashes for everyday. Don't get me wrong, I love a volumising mascara from time to time, but when I'm getting ready for work in the morning, I want something that enhances my look, like a "your lashes but better" finish, you know?

So, I made it my mission to test some of the best formulas that promised a natural-looking finish, and these are the six mascaras that delivered. It's a small edit, but I can confirm that every single formula truly deserves a place on this list. Keep on scrolling for my top natural-looking mascaras on the market...

The Best Natural-Looking Mascaras, Tried & Tested

• Best Overall Mascara: Merit Clean Lash Mascara, £24
• Best Brown Mascara: Lisa Eldridge Kitten Lash Mascara, £29
• Best Affordable Mascara: L'Oréal Paris Paradise Mascara, £13
• Best Mascara for a Fluttery Effect: Refy Lash Sculpt, £22
• Best Tubing Mascara: Blink Brow Bar Lash Lift Tubing Mascara, £26

1. Merit Clean Lash Mascara

This Merit Beauty formula is one of my most-used mascaras, as it's so great for daily wear. Not only does it look chic, but the tubing mascara lengthens and lifts every lash without budging. Although the brush isn't small, it is great at coating and separating each lash for that natural, fluttery look that I love so much. Plus, it can easily be removed with just a bit of warm water.

2. Lisa Eldridge Kitten Lash Mascara

I love using a brown mascara for a "no makeup" makeup look, as it's just that little bit softer. This one from Lisa Eldridge is my favourite, as the warm brown hue looks simply stunning. The formula itself delivers a featherlight finish for a natural, almost sultry result, but you could also build it up a bit if you wanted to. It's a little more expensive than others on the market, but trust me, it's totally worth it.

3. L'Oréal Paris Paradise Mascara

We all know that L'Oréal mascaras are some of the best on the high street, and this is my personal favourite for an everyday look. Don't be afraid that it has castor oil in it. Trust me, it doesn't smudge and never feels greasy. The formula is actually a great option for sensitive eyes. The brush is ideal for lengthening and defining the lashes, and the fluttery effect always earns me compliments.

4. Refy Lash Sculpt

This Refy mascara broke the internet when it launched thanks to the unique wand. However, it truly is amazing at creating a natural-lash effect. It can take a little while to get used to applying it, but the curved shape means that the wand coats every single lash with not a single clump in sight. It lengthens, separates and lifts the lashes, awakening the whole eye area whilst making it look as if you're barely wearing any mascara. Genius.

5. Blink Brow Bar Lash Lift Tubing Mascara

Tubing mascaras are great as they don't smudge, but are so easy to remove. One of my favourites for a natural lash look is this one from Blink Brow Bar. It comes in two shades and really lifts and lengthens the lashes whilst keeping them looking soft and fluttery. It's the sort of mascara that will have people second-guessing whether you've had a lash lift or if your natural lashes are just that good. Don't worry, your secret is safe with me.

6. Makeup By Mario Master Mascara

I keep this mascara in my makeup bag at all times. The reason why? One coat gives a super natural, soft finish, but, if suddenly you're heading out in the evening and want a more statement makeup look, it's easily buildable for a false-lash effect. It's just a great all-rounder that I know I can rely on daily. Plus, it doesn't clump and never smudges. 10/10.

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.

Out of all the makeup brands out there, Merit Beauty is at the top of my list. Its minimalistic and effortless approach to beauty (not to mention its extremely chic packaging) makes it a total staple in mine and my fellow beauty editors' makeup bags. I'm already a huge fan of Merit Clean Lash (£24), the brand's very first mascara. So when I heard that Merit was launching a new volumising mascara, Clean Volume (£24), my interest was immediately piqued. I've been testing the new mascara over the past couple of weeks, so scroll on for my thoughts on whether it deserves a spot in your makeup bag.

Merit Clean Volume Mascara

Clean Volume is a tubing mascara designed to volumise lashes without clumping. Whilst many volumising mascaras feature a large wand with long bristles, Clean Volume has a notably more nimble, flexible comb wand. As someone with deep-set, hooded eyes, this is a total game-changer, as so many bulky wands ultimately transfer product onto my lids or under my eyes. However, it doesn't compromise on volume. This small comb wand, however, catches every lash and deposits just the right amount of product as you sweep it through, helping to give you defined yet full lashes and plenty of length, too. No spidery lashes here.

The tubing formula means that not only does it withstand flaking, smudging or crumbling throughout the day, but it removes effortlessly with just warm water—it just slides off your lashes between your fingertips.

Before and After

As you can see, this mascara delivers on its promises of volumising, without looking heavy or spidery. This is just with one coat, but if you're after a more dramatic effect, it's easily layered up for more intensity without turning clumpy. I like to curl my lashes prior to applying my mascara, and if you have short or straight lashes, I'd recommend not skipping this step.

Clean Lash vs Clean Volume

If you're stuck between which formula to go for, or want to know if you need Clean Volume in your makeup bag too, there are a few key differences to know. Clean Lash delivers a fluttery, natural-looking look, and features a classic bristled wand that gives a feathery-looking flutter. IMO, it's the perfect everyday mascara.

Clean Volume, on the other hand, delivers a more defined yet volumised look. Think more sleek and spiky in the best way. The wand is also flexible in comparison and features tiny bristles that are small yet mighty at delivering the pigment to your lashes. Whichever one you go for, you now have the option of black or brown in each.

Personally, I can justify having both in my makeup bag. Clean Lash remains my favourite everyday mascara, but come evenings when I want a bolder eye look, I'll definitely be switching to Clean Volume for more drama.

My Verdict

Having now tested Clean Volume after the past couple of weeks, I have to say I'm impressed. I'm usually not one for volumising mascara formulas (I personally favour lengthening and curling mascaras), however, Merit Beauty's innovative brush has converted me. It makes it easy to get fuller lashes without running the risk of overloading with too much product, and I also love how long and defined it leaves my lashes, too. It feels light and flexible on my lashes, without feeling heavy like some mascaras do. Oh, and it's a total dream to remove at the end of the day; it just melts away in the shower. If you're in the market for a new mascara that delivers on volume, then I'd highly recommend it.

Shop Clean Volume:

Shop Clean Lash:

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 some 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.

I've said it before, and I'll say it again: I'm somewhat of a beauty hoarder. It doesn't help that I get to try practically every new beauty launch as a perk of my job as a beauty editor. But long before embarking on a professional career, I harbored dozens of makeup, hair, nail, and fragrance products in my room for years. Though I generally refuse to throw anything out ("What if I suddenly want to do a vampy lip with that inky purple lipstick I bought for Halloween last year?" I ask myself, excusing my bad behavior), I tend to reach for the same products every day, which means that I go through them much quicker than the rest. Lucky for me, a handful of my beauty empties are on sale during Amazon Prime Day, so I'm saving a whopping $135 on my next big restock.

If you didn't know, Amazon Prime Day started on June 23 and ends tomorrow, June 26. Because we're one day from the end of this sale, I'd recommend not dragging your feet before checkout—especially with these deals on celebrity-loved K-beauty, viral lip stains, and top-tier summer sunscreens in tow. Remember, the next Prime Day event won't be until October, so this is your last chance to save on summer wardrobe essentials, cult beauty products, and more for the next several months.

15 Deals on My Repeat Beauty Purchases

There are many perks of a career in beauty journalism. I receive packages full of new luxury perfumes on my doorstep before the public even knows they exist, and I get blowouts and haircuts from my favorite celebrities’ hairstylists on a regular basis. But best of all, I come home toting bags bursting at the seams with new makeup products nearly every day of the work week—and as a devout makeup lover, there’s practically nothing better.

Now, I don’t say this to brag (even though it sounds highly pretentious to list all of the perks that come with this kind of job). I’m eternally grateful for the product oasis that my apartment has become, but it’s just that—a small New York City apartment split between three roommates that's spilling over with makeup, skincare, hair tools, and more. While it’s important to do spring cleaning on this overflowing stash, I make careful evaluations when assessing my go-to makeup collection and “try someday soon” pile. If a product seems better suited to wintertime and feels worth the wait, I’ll add it to the “someday” stock. But this is an ever-flowing ecosystem, which means I’m unearthing summer products that were stored away in winter while also sifting through beauty’s latest launches.

All this to say, I’m very meticulous about the seasonal beauty swaps I make—especially when it concerns summer makeup. Not only should my products protect my skin from the sun, but I also expect them to feel weightless on my skin, make my routine easier so I can race off to my next plans, and resist sweat (as much as humanly possible). It’s a lot to ask of my makeup routine, but seeing as I could stock a small Sephora from my bedroom stash, I set the bar extremely high. Luckily, I found 12 products that are rising to the challenge this summer. Below, the skin-perfecting, sweat-defying, and sun-shielding makeup products I’ve subbed in for summer 2026.

Summer Makeup Must-Haves

Honorable Mentions

They say that the eyes are a window to the soul, and I'd add that eye makeup is a reflection of style. Whether you're a makeup maximalist or minimalist, onlookers catch a glimpse of your creative persona via the wash of colour splashed across your eyelids or the whisper of smoky eyeliner rimming your orbs. Your eyes don't just say that you're warm, inviting or not in the mood for talking—they also say that you have a good enough understanding of colour theory to know that rich burgundy shadow makes your brown eyes pop or that you made the conscious choice to go mascara-free to let your lipstick do the talking.

Since I'm always looking to reinvent my eye makeup, one of my first references is the French—what with their mystique, eclectically chic clothes and effortless beauty. Though Parisian women may be best known for their statement red lips, French makeup artist Violette Serrat calls one of her latest ventures, the Violette_Fr Plume Eye Shadow, one of the most authentic to her lifestyle.

"In a way, Plume Eyeshadow might be the most French-inspired formula we’ve created yet," says Serrat, the artist and brand's founder. ("After Bisou Balm," she clarifies.) "I’ve always been obsessed with the eyes in old French cinema—nothing too perfect or overly 'done,'" she explains, "just this soft, lived-in sensuality that makes you look more like yourself, but with a little mystery." Yes, there are cream eye shadow sticks, liquid shadows, and powder formulas galore, but Serrat found herself floundering when she tried to look for something sheerer, more foolproof, and perfectly French-friendly: meaning you can truly swipe and go.

"I realised there was nothing on the market that gave you that feeling in an effortless, intuitive way," she tells Who What Wear. To fill the gap, her team hit the cosmetics lab to cook up a cream-to-powder texture that offered the blending ease she sought with the smoky, gauzy finish she craved. "It has this incredible melt-to-matte effect that fuses with the skin and creates a soft veil of colour instead of something harsh or flat," she explains. In short, they're inherently immune to mistakes. In Serrat's words, the resulting blue-tinned, dreamy shadows that look closer to a trick of the light than a makeup product are things you could "build, smudge, and wear instinctively." Sounds like a French reverie.

The "French Girl" Approach

"For me, the 'French girl' approach is really about restraint," says Serrat. Sheer washes of colour and diffused colour sound easy-breezy but are typically the result of several ultra-thin layers blended into oblivion by a highly trained makeup artist. "I wanted to create a formula you could literally swipe on with your finger in two seconds and go. If you’re spending an hour in front of the mirror trying to perfect your eye shadow, you’ve already lost that effortless feeling," she adds. Effortless beauty should be effortless, no?

5 Ways to Wear the Plume Eye Shadows

Yes, I dedicated an entire paragraph of this piece to the French approach to beauty, but the secret is scarily simple—messy, hurried and virtually technique-less. However, I'm an American interpreting French beauty, so naturally I'm making things a bit more complicated. Keep scrolling to see the five ways I'm manipulating this shadow this summer.

Watercolour Wash

The first, and most authentic French technique, is the smudge-and-go. Thanks to these hazy, sheer shadows, you can rub the pad of your finger onto the cream powder and muss it onto your lids for that hazy wash of colour. "One trick I love is working the shadow onto the volume of the eye," says Serrat, referencing the centre of the lid. "I add to the centre of the eyelid, then focus depth into the crease and along the lash line, stretching it out toward the outer corner of the eye," she explains. "It gives the eyes this alive, smoky look that feels cinematic and sensual without looking overworked."

Colour Used: Pluie Violette

Hazy Liner

One of my favorite ways to do eye makeup is to accent the lash line with a soft flick of eye shadow, not liner. It's softer, making it suitable for daytime, but it can also be intensified for a deeper look once the sun goes down. (Or anytime you want, it's your world.) " I love taking a small brush and pressing it along the upper and lower lash lines, almost like a soft liner, then winging it out slightly," says Serrat. "It gives the eyes definition and depth but in a much lighter way than a classic eyeliner."

Colour I Used: Charbon Fumé

Soft Smoke

While I love tracing a clean wing with these soft shadows, the formula envelopes the eye in a seductive fog when smudged into the lash line. "I’ll use a combination of fingers and a brush to add colour across the eyelid, concentrating more depth in the outer corner and tracing it along the upper and lower lash lines," says Serrat. "Then, I’ll softly blend additional colour just above the natural crease to create the illusion of wider, more open eyes," she adds. This, she says, is a great way to "open" hooded eyelids.

Colours Used: Charbon Fumé and Bois Brûlé

Flash of Light

Think of eye shadow as an outfit: You can play with layers until the look feels right. "I’ll swipe on a shimmer shade of Plume Eyeshadow and finish with tiny accents of Lune Liner in the corners of the eyes to catch the light as the face moves," says Serrat. "I never want it to feel 'full glam,'" she states. "It should feel spontaneous, like the makeup became part of you." The key to one of these effortless yet undeniably cool looks is stepping outside your comfort zone—you won't find anything new there. "Makeup should feel expressive, not restrictive," she muses.

Colour Shown: Pluie Violette

Halo Eyes

I love a sultry halo eye after the sun goes down, and these shadows are especially suited for the occasion. The blendable cream pigments are easy to smooth over the eyes in a sheer wash, which creates a solid base for the rest of the look. With a small blending brush, I gently apply my deeper shade (in this case, Bois Brûlé) to the inner and outer corners of the eye, sweeping toward the centre but leaving a blank space in the middle. (Pro tip: Blend out any harsh edges with your fingers for a smoother look.) Selecting a shimmery accent shade, I'll coat the pad of my fingertip in the sparkling shadow and swipe it over the centre a few times to build intensity. From there, you can blend any rough lines with a fluffy brush—but don't overdo it, as the small imperfections are what keep these looks interesting.

Colours I Used: Orchidée Céleste and Bois Brûlé

More Effortless Single Eye Shadows to Try

They say that the eyes are a window to the soul, and I'd add that eye makeup is a reflection of style. Whether you're a makeup maximalist or minimalist, onlookers catch a glimpse of your creative persona via the wash of color splashed across your eyelids or the whisper of smoky liner rimming your orbs. Your eyes don't just say that you're warm, inviting, or not in the mood for talking—they also say that you have a good enough understanding of color theory to know that rich burgundy shadow makes your brown eyes pop or that you made the conscious choice to go mascara-free to let your lipstick do the talking.

Since I'm always looking to reinvent my eye makeup, one of my first references is the French—what with their mystique, eclectically chic clothes, and effortless beauty. Though Parisian women may be best known for their statement red lips, French makeup artist Violette Serrat calls one of her latest ventures, the Violette_Fr Plume Eye Shadow, one of the most authentic to her lifestyle.

"In a way, Plume Eyeshadow might be the most French-inspired formula we’ve created yet," says Serrat, the artist and brand's founder. ("After Bisou Balm," she clarifies.) "I’ve always been obsessed with the eyes in old French cinema—nothing too perfect or overly 'done,'" she explains, "just this soft, lived-in sensuality that makes you look more like yourself, but with a little mystery." Yes, there are cream eye shadow sticks, liquid shadows, and powder formulas galore, but Serrat found herself floundering when she tried to look for something sheerer, more foolproof, and perfectly French-friendly: meaning you can truly swipe and go.

"I realized there was nothing on the market that gave you that feeling in an effortless, intuitive way," she tells Who What Wear. To fill the gap, her team hit the cosmetics lab to cook up a cream-to-powder texture that offered the blending ease she sought with the smoky, gauzy finish she craved. "It has this incredible melt-to-matte effect that fuses with the skin and creates a soft veil of color instead of something harsh or flat," she explains. In short, they're inherently immune to mistakes. In Serrat's words, the resulting blue-tinned, dreamy shadows that look closer to a trick of the light than a makeup product are things you could "build, smudge, and wear instinctively." Sounds like a French reverie.

The "French Girl" Approach

"For me, the 'French girl' approach is really about restraint," says Serrat. Sheer washes of color and diffused color sound easy-breezy but are typically the result of several ultra-thin layers blended into oblivion by a highly trained makeup artist. "I wanted to create a formula you could literally swipe on with your finger in two seconds and go. If you’re spending an hour in front of the mirror trying to perfect your eye shadow, you’ve already lost that effortless feeling," she adds. Effortless beauty should be effortless, no?

5 Ways to Wear the Plume Eye Shadows

Yes, I dedicated an entire paragraph of this piece to the French approach to beauty, but the secret is scarily simple—messy, hurried, and virtually technique-less. However, I'm an American interpreting French beauty, so naturally I'm making things a bit more complicated. Keep scrolling to see the five ways I'm manipulating this shadow this summer.

Watercolor Wash

The first, and most authentic French technique, is the smudge-and-go. Thanks to these hazy, sheer shadows, you can rub the pad of your finger onto the cream powder and muss it onto your lids for that hazy wash of color. "One trick I love is working the shadow onto the volume of the eye," says Serrat, referencing the center of the lid. "I add to the center of the eyelid, then focus depth into the crease and along the lash line, stretching it out toward the outer corner of the eye," she explains. "It gives the eyes this alive, smoky look that feels cinematic and sensual without looking overworked."

Color Used: Pluie Violette

Hazy Liner

One of my favorite ways to do eye makeup is to accent the lash line with a soft flick of eye shadow, not liner. It's softer, making it suitable for daytime, but it can also be intensified for a deeper look once the sun goes down. (Or anytime you want, it's your world.) " I love taking a small brush and pressing it along the upper and lower lash lines, almost like a soft liner, then winging it out slightly," says Serrat. "It gives the eyes definition and depth but in a much lighter way than a classic eyeliner."

Color Used: Charbon Fumé

Soft Smoke

While I love tracing a clean wing with these soft shadows, the formula envelopes the eye in a seductive fog when smudged into the lash line. "I’ll use a combination of fingers and a brush to add color across the eyelid, concentrating more depth in the outer corner and tracing it along the upper and lower lash lines," says Serrat. "Then, I’ll softly blend additional color just above the natural crease to create the illusion of wider, more open eyes," she adds. This, she says, is a great way to "open" hooded eyelids.

Colors Used: Charbon Fumé and Bois Brûlé

Flash of Light

Think of eye shadow as an outfit: You can play with layers until the look feels right. "I’ll swipe on a shimmer shade of Plume Eyeshadow and finish with tiny accents of Lune Liner in the corners of the eyes to catch the light as the face moves," says Serrat. "I never want it to feel 'full glam,'" she states. "It should feel spontaneous, like the makeup became part of you." The key to one of these effortless yet undeniably cool looks is stepping outside your comfort zone—you won't find anything new there. "Makeup should feel expressive, not restrictive," she muses.

Color Used: Pluie Violette

Halo Eyes

I love a sultry halo eye after the sun goes down, and these shadows are especially suited for the occasion. The blendable cream pigments are easy to smooth over the eyes in a sheer wash, which creates a solid base for the rest of the look. With a small blending brush, I gently apply my deeper shade (in this case, Bois Brûlé) to the inner and outer corners of the eye, sweeping toward the center but leaving a blank space in the middle. (Pro tip: Blend out any harsh edges with your fingers for a smoother look.) Selecting a shimmery accent shade, I'll coat the pad of my fingertip in the sparkling shadow and swipe it over the center a few times to build intensity. From there, you can blend any rough lines with a fluffy brush—but don't overdo it, as the small imperfections are what keep these looks interesting.

Colors Used: Orchidée Céleste and Bois Brûlé

More Effortless Single Eye Shadows to Try

I'm a makeup enthusiast, and there is no season I enjoy leaning into thematically more than summer. There's something about the warm weather, relaxed schedules, and fun fashion that makes me want to stay outside all day and night, whether I'm exploring a new beach town on vacation or frolicking through the humid city streets with my girlfriends. Whatever the case, summer makeup has a certain spice to it that other seasons lack: It's the quick smudge-and-go liner before happy hour and the bold lipstick that I only reach for when I have a tan. The possibilities feel endless, and celebrity makeup artists agree that summer makeup should be fun.

Bronzed, sun-kissed skin and a sunlit glow will forever be mainstays in any summer makeup routine, celebrity makeup artist Carolina Gonzalez tells Who What Wear. "Always a blushy, little sunburnt moment," she specifies. However, there are a few trends shaping the makeup sphere this season that weren't factors in 2025. Cultural moments like Charli XCX's current rock-star era attached to the forthcoming release of her album Music, Fashion, Film in late July and Gucci's subversive cruise 2027 show are inspiring beauty to follow in fashion's grungy footsteps, and viral celebrity MUAs' signature techniques, like blurred "Nina Park lips" and "Painted by Esther blush," continue to trend.

In short, there's a whole lineup of makeup trends—both new and old—worth knowing about this summer. Keep reading for makeup-artist breakdowns of each one, plus products that will help you get the look at home.

6 Summer Makeup Trends to Try in 2026

Beach Skin

As Gonzalez put it, sun-kissed skin isn't going anywhere. In fact, we're taking things a step further into sunburn territory. This trend, complete with strategically placed rosy-orange blush and bronzed, juicy skin, is exemplary of art imitating life, eliciting images of beach days and flushed skin, sans the painful and itchy flaking that comes with the actual thing. Please don't forego sunscreen this summer to achieve this look naturally! Instead, tap a bronzy or terra-cotta blush over the apples of your cheeks and the center of your nose before blending everything out with your fingers for a natural, lived-in look. Whether you're building on a post–beach day tan or imitating one, this trend will bring your skin to life this summer.

Shop "Beach Skin" Products

Watercolor Blush

There's no denying that blush is having a moment right now. Whether it's the name of the blush technique you're employing or the brand you're wearing, every beauty lover is tapped into the flushed look right now. One thing that stays consistent is the internet's love for sheer, cloudlike color. "I'm obsessed with the watercolor makeup trend right now," says celebrity makeup artist Nam Vo. "Think sheer washes of blush, blurred edges, and that effortless lit-from-within glow."

Gonzalez agrees, having popularized vintage-inspired, poppy blush on her longtime client Sabrina Carpenter. "Armani Beauty's Luminous Silk Cheek Tint in Brick Brown has been my go-to for the cheeks," she divulges. "I love applying it on the back of my hand first, then using my ring finger to dab it onto the cheeks, lips, and the tip of the nose."

It's placement that matters most here, according to Vo. "Blush is no longer just on the apples," she explains. "It's contour. It's structure. It's glow almost draped up into the temples for that sculpted effect."

Shop Watercolor Blush Products

Grown-Up Glitter

As if mimicking music-festival lights and midsummer fireworks, sparkly eye shadow and whimsical shimmers are taking center stage. Gonzalez calls out "glitter and gels on the eyes" as one of her mega trend predictions, recommending Armani's Eye Tint Long-Lasting Liquid Eyeshadow in Tobacco as a must-have for summer glam. "It gives you a little bit of sparkle, but it's not so satin," she explains. Whether you reach for fairy-dust pink or silvery sparkles, this trend was made for hot summer nights under disco lights.

Shop Grown-Up Glitter Products

Y2K Rock-Star Glam

As we mentioned, the "cool-girl grunge" trend that's gripped the last few seasons isn't going anywhere this summer. It's just taking new shape. Charli XCX has been the purveyor of so many rock-star eye makeup moments this season, inspiring us to pair gray smoky eyes with juicy, hydrated skin in the promo for Music, Fashion, Film. Models like Gabbriette and Alex Consani make us want to sleep in black eyeliner for their effortlessly cool, messy makeup looks from Gucci's cruise 2027 show. Extra points for Y2K-inspired frosted lipstick and shimmery brow bones.

Shop "Y2K Rock Star" Shadow Products

Hyperreal Skin

Healthy, luminous skin is still one of the pinnacles of summer beauty; however, Vo sees things taking a meta turn this year. "We're also seeing skinimalism evolve into what I call hyperreal skin," Vo muses. "It's still natural but more intentional with strategic glow, sculpt, and hydration." In the age of AI, artists are turning away from the faux glamour of digitally enhanced skin and focusing their attention on hydration and glowy, natural-looking highlighters so their clients can always put their best skin forward—no filter necessary.

"Radiance will always be the main character for summer," says Vo. Just make sure to prep your skin correctly for the best results. "Start with a rich moisturizer and a glowy primer," she advises, then go in with skin makeup only where necessary. Vo explains that she prefers to use "lightweight, radiant foundations" or even just concealer only where it's needed for the most natural effect.

Shop "Hyperreal Skin" Products

Hazy Pout

"Brush-blurred lips are having a moment. They give that soft-focus, 'just bitten' effect without looking overdone," says Vo. Think of it as that hazy sunrise over the horizon line on a hot summer's day. This look, popularized by the work of celebrity makeup artist Nina Park, went viral for making celebrities' lips look naturally plumper, and all you have to do is gently buff your overlined lip liner with a small blending brush. "And don't skip a glossy lip balm or oil to finish the look. It ties everything together," Vo advises.

Shop "Hazy Pout" Products

How is summer 2026 makeup different from last year?

"Summer 2025 was more about clean girl, minimal, almost-bare skin. Summer 2026 is still fresh but more expressive," says Vo. "We're layering sheer textures instead of stripping everything back, and bold blush is here to stay." We're talking about more color, glow, and individuality. "It's less about perfection and more about artistry that still feels wearable," she explains.

How should we summer-proof our makeup?

These stunning looks take some work, so the last thing you want to do is sweat them right off. Luckily, the pros have a few tips.

"Less is more in the heat. I always say thin layers set strategically," advises Vo. "I'll use cream products first, then lightly set only where needed—like the T-zone—so the skin still looks juicy." Gonzalez models similar behavior, opting for liquid products, like Armani's Luminous Cheek Tint, during the daytime and topping things off with a powder blush in breezier evenings. "It sets the liquid blush in place. It really locks it in and won't move," says Gonzalez. But if you think you might end up sweating, Gonzalez says to skip the powder blush, as it can end up looking streaky.

One last tip? Stock up on reliable setting spray and blotting wipes. "A good setting spray is your best friend," Gonzalez says sagely. "I also like to press products into the skin rather than swipe for better longevity." It's for this reason that she keeps blotting papers on hand during the summer, which "will keep your glow fresh, not greasy," she states.

Meet Our Experts

• Carolina Gonzalez is a celebrity makeup artist who has glammed the likes of Sabrina Carpenter, Tessa Thompson, Sofia Carson, and more. She is a member of the Armani Beauty Collective and is based in New York City.
• Nam Vo is a New York City–based celebrity makeup artist and content creator known for coining the term "dewy dumpling" skin for her ultra-glowy makeup style.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Over the years, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

We focus on formulas that deliver, whether they're affordable favorites or luxury investments. Our product 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 landed here, you might be wondering what eyeliners are best for brown eyes. As a brown-eyed beauty editor, I've usually played it safe with brown eyeliners and classic black eyeliner pencils to frame my eyes. However, in the spirit of trying new things, I've been wanting to experiment with some new shades on my eyes. So, I decided to ask legendary celebrity makeup artist Lisa Eldridge MBE for her advice on the best shades that suit brown eyes the best.

What Eyeliners Suit Brown Eyes?

"Brown eyes are diverse, so it depends on what shade they are," says Eldridge. "They can have a lot of warmth in them, or they could be more deep and neutral. For really dark brown eyes, I would use something like my Seamless Glide Eye Pencil in Betina, as that cool silver sparkle will offset the dark brown depth," she says. "For a dark brown eye that’s warm, shades like Enigmatic Olive would be great, as the golden pearls would highlight any golden or hazel reflections in the eye," she says.

Overall, it depends on the effect you're going for. Personally, I find brown liners great as a natural-looking eyeliner colour, and black eyeliners are perfect for creating a smoky eye look. After all, these shades are both naturally harmonious with deep eyes. However, if you want to make them pop, consider going for some contrasting shades to bring out their richness and depth. "With brown eyes, the contrast is what creates the colour pop," says Eldridge. "If you match your eyeshadow or eye pencil too closely to your eye colour, you won’t get that great contrast," she says. Look for jewel emeralds or sapphires for statement colours, or warm metallics, bronzes or golds that pair beautifully with darker eyes.

Whatever eyeliner look you're going for, scroll ahead for the best eyeliner shades for brown eyes that will give them even more depth

Best Eyeliners for Brown Eyes

• Best Overall: Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Eyeliner in Cocoa
• Best Olive Liner: Lisa Eldridge Seamless Glide Eye Pencil in Enigmatic Olive
• Best Shimmer: Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner in Cinnamon
• Best Burgundy Liner: Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Eyeliner
• Best Black Liner: Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes Longwear Gel Liner in True Black

1. Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Eyeliner in Cocoa

2. Lisa Eldridge Seamless Glide Eye Pencil in Enigmatic Olive

3. Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner in Cinnamon

4. Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Eyeliner

5. Glossier No.1 Pencil in Lapis

6. Kosas Soulgazer Intensifying Gel Eyeliner in Depth

7. Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes Longwear Gel Eyeliner in True Black

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 some 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.

Is it me, or have we all fallen out of love with eye shadow palettes? I started my career in beauty circa 2016, where eye shadow palettes were the MVP of our makeup bags, and a cut-crease was the go-to eye shadow look, regardless of where you were going, and a 40-shade strong nude eye shadow palette was a must in your makeup bag. But over the past decade, heavy eyeshadow looks fell out of favour to natural-looking "no-makeup" makeup and pared-back eye makeup—maybe a quick swipe of an eye shadow stick, at a push.

However, as we move away from the "clean girl" aesthetic, it's hard to ignore the eyeshadow renaissance happening around us. Blue eye shadow is all over my feeds right now, and bolder eye makeup and eyeliner have been slowly trickling back into the runway shows after seasons of bare lids and sans-mascara lashes. But makeup trends aside, there's a place for a great eye shadow palette in everyone's makeup bag. Whether you favour natural everyday eye makeup or want to embrace a smouldering smokey-eye look, these are the very best eye shadow palettes for the job.

Best Eye Shadow Palettes

• Best Overall: Makeup By Mario Master Mattes Eyeshadow Palette (£55)
• Best Eye Shadow Quad: Hourglass Curator Eyeshadow Palette (£67)
• Best for Smokey Eyes: Victoria Beckham Beauty Eye Wardrobe (£72)
• Best Matte Eye Shadow Palette: Urban Decay Naked 2 Basics Eyeshadow Palette (£30)
• Best Affordable Eye Shadow Palette: E.l.f Perfect 10 Eyeshadow Palette (£11)

1. Makeup By Mario Master Mattes The Neutrals Eyeshadow

This is probably my most-used eye shadow palette, and it's a brilliant eyeshadow for my hooded eyes that look best with matte, neutral shades. It's just so easy to use, even if you're an eye shadow beginner, thanks to its careful edit of wearable shades all in versatile matte shades that allow you to create natural eye makeup through to smouldering evening looks. It comes in both a warm and neutral colourway, the latter of which is perfect for everyday eye makeup, IMO. It's packed with 12 natural-looking shades in silky soft powders that blend effortlessly, whether worn alone or combined. They're pigmented but easy enough to sheer out, and there's no fallout whatsoever. If you want an eye shadow palette that's a good all-rounder for lots of eye shadow looks, I highly recommend you go for this one.

2. Hourglass Curator Eyeshadow Palette Realist

If you're someone who always uses up a couple of favourite shades in a standard eye shadow palette, then a quad may be best for you. These curated palettes mean you won't end up with tonnes of unused shades, just the ones you want to wear. Hourglass's eye shadows are buttery-soft and blend effortlessly into the lids. Depending on the palette you choose, you get a mix of satins, mattes, metallics and shimmer, but if you want an all-matte palette, The Minimalist (pictured above) is my recommendation. It's perfect for throwing in my bag if I want to take my daytime makeup into a bolder moment for the evening. It's expensive, but I wear every single shade of mine, which I feel makes it a more worthwhile investment.

3. Victoria Beckham Beauty Eye Wardrobe

Victoria Beckham Beauty may be best known for its iconic Satin Kajal Liners, but if you want a concise palette that allows you to create the perfect smokey eye, then her curated Eye Wardrobes should be on your radar. These mini palettes make applying eye shadow so easy. Containing four shades in each palette, these quads span the most wearable neutrals to trend-forward blues and every shade in between, allowing you to create an array of eye looks. However, they're particularly good for creating evening eye-makeup looks and full glam moments. Victoria Beckham's favourite is Victoria, so I decided to follow suit and can confirm this palette is great for brown eyes, but as a neutral eye shadow palette for every eye colour too. The pigments are luxuriously buttery and blend to perfection every time.

4. Urban Decay Naked 2 Basics Eyeshadow Palette

5. E.l.f Perfect 10 Eyeshadow Palette

6. Chanel Les 4 Ombres Multi-Effect Quadra Eyeshadow

As luxury eye shadows go, Chanel's are unmatched. You'll find an array of palettes in the permanent collection, as well as seasonal limited-edition drops that feel like collector's items in their own right. Every palette contains two medium shades and two darker tones, which are designed to be worn and blended seamlessly to create both natural and bold eyeshadow looks. The pigments and texture are truly stunning and are worth the extra spend, but the compact itself feels like a treasure in your makeup bag, too.

7. Byredo Bibliophilia Eyeshadow Palette

Behold, this stunning eye shadow palette from Byredo. Its limited edition, so you'll have to act fast if you want it, but these shadows are unlike anything else I've tried. They're powder, but are so buttery soft they almost feel like a cream shadow to the touch, and they blend out into a velvety shadow with incredible pigments. This particular palette is inspired by the shades of a library, and contains mostly metallic and shimmer shadows, which span beautiful burnished coppers through to ethereal metallics to master gilded eye looks. And with 18 shades, there's plenty to experiment with in this eye shadow palette.

How We Tested

I tested each palette over a couple of months to see how well the formulas worked, as well as the shade range across each palette. I used them for everyday eye looks, as well as bolder evening eye makeup moments, to rate each one on its versatility. I also tested drugstore eye shadow palettes as well as the most luxurious ones to find the best across all budgets. Many of these palettes I have used for years, so I can vouch for their effectiveness and why they deserve a spot in your makeup bag.

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 some 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.

Some might say Charli XCX is championing a rebrand. The star recently released "Rock Music" as the lead single from her upcoming eighth album (followed by "SS26," dropping May 21), the grungier sound a noticeable pivot from the dance-pop beats of Brat, which became the official soundtrack of summer 2024. Her beauty looks, too, have experienced a subtle shift: While her Brat beauty era was defined by smudged eyeliner and a lived-in "party-girl" aesthetic, her current image reads softer, smokier—sometimes with no eye makeup whatsoever, as depicted in her "Rock Music" music video. As if to cement this new glam moment, Charli has become the newest U.S. ambassador for YSL Beauty. Indeed, a revamp is clearly in the cards.

What would Charli herself say of this evolution? "It's all still intrinsically me," she shares regarding the campaign's beauty direction, her voice soft, at odds with the intentionally distorted vocals I'm used to hearing through my speakers. "But I think some of the looks that I worked on with Sam Visser, who did all of the makeup for the campaign, are definitely a bit more maximalist." Think extra-luminous skin with a light-reflective lip, sculpted lids, and "adrenaline flushed" cheeks—a surprising choice for the star, who has typically opted for a pared-back complexion.

"We were playing with blush in a way that I don't often do, where it's really high and blending into the eye," she says. "In the past, I've done a lot of winged-out eyes, whereas these [looks] were a bit more smoky, which is definitely what I'm feeling right now." She sees these updates not as closing a chapter but rather turning a new page. "It's about taking the essence of things that I've always done with beauty, but twisting them a little bit," she adds. The "brat" hasn't gone—she's graduated.

When she's not on set or performing, you might also be surprised to discover that Charli doesn't always reach for eyeliner. "I'm very much a lip and brow girl," she says of her current makeup fixations. "I'm either brushing my brows or putting on a lip. That's my go-to [look]." For the latter, she's "particularly obsessed" with YSL Beauty's Lovenude Lip Blusher. "It's matte and just beautiful. You can use it on the go, which is how I like to do my makeup, to be honest," she says, pausing to fish the product from her bag in order to confirm the specific shade. (Success—it's Undressed Pink.) For her brows, she grooms them upward with not a traditional gel but a hairspray-soaked spoolie. "It helps them stay, and I don't have to think about it. It's probably not that good for you, but it's something that I do," she laughs.

As an ambassador for YSL Beauty—joining the likes of Laura Harrier, Amelia Gray Hamlin, and Lila Moss—Charli has all the brand's unreleased, soon-to-be heroes at her disposal, such as the Skin Affair Soft Glow Cushion Foundation, which launches on May 29. (FYI: She secretly wore the shade LN10 at the Met Gala.) "It comes on a really cute keychain," she mentions, "so you can put it on your [bag], and it looks really sweet." Another top staple is the brand's Couture Mini Clutch, an eye shadow quad featuring velvety-soft pigments perfect for creating soft-grunge looks (if I do say so myself). "I've got one that's taupe, silver, and brown. That's my go-to palette all the time," Charli shares.

On that note, eye looks do remain the singer's signature, even if she eschews the liner for a soft shadow. "Sometimes, I like to go really neutral with nothing on my eyes, and sometimes, I like to go full-on—all black, oil slick. It really depends on my mood," she explains. When I ask her to define her overall mood for 2026, she takes a breath—"Damn, pressure!" she jokes—then declares: "Effortless, chic, and still a bit messy." The party girl lives on, rebrands be damned.

Shop Charli XCX's YSL Makeup Staples

The internet never stops churning out new beauty trends, and the changing of the seasons is even more fodder for the “miscellaneous-core aesthetic” preachers. In following the barrage of makeup movements served to me on my aluminum brick, no matter how compelling (I did indulge in the sunburn blush and frosted lipstick trends), I felt that I’d lost my personal sense of style this season. It was only after turning my focus away from the beauty industry that I found a new source of inspiration for spring beauty—and that, my friend, was Jonathan Anderson’s first F/W collection for Dior.

Beauty is, by nature, an extension of fashion. It puts the period on the message the designer is trying to convey through their clothes, whether simple like Prada’s streamlined silhouettes or theatrical like Maison Margiela’s statement-making ensembles. So it’s no surprise that when I discovered the marvel of water lily–inspired shoes, turtle-shaped purses, and chrysanthemum-adorned two-pieces cascading down Dior’s runway at the Jardin des Tuileries in Paris, I was quickly influenced to translate the show’s palette into my own look.

Since diving into the pastel world of Anderson’s Dior, I have a renewed sense of appreciation for spring beauty. Ahead, the five trends I’ve adopted from his spellbinding show.

Freshwater Eyes

There is little I love more than a punchy pastel eye, so when I spotted this sky-blue clutch on the runway, I realized that I had Dior’s permission to slather this color all over my lids. Though blue eye shadow isn’t exactly groundbreaking for spring and summer, the retro hue is having quite a comeback in 2026. Even celebrity makeup artist Ash K. Holm declared this color the diamond of the season in an Instagram reel; using Danessa Myricks’s Colorfix liquid pigment in the shade Oasis to achieve her robin’s egg lids.

To channel the bag’s freshwater hue, I opted for Victoria Beckham’s EyeWear cream shadow in the shade Cornflower. After swiping this color all over my lids, I blended the color into my crease with a fluffy brush and intensified the look with Hung Vanngo’s Color Story Eyeshadow Palette in Brilliant Blue. Cool, artful, yet modern.

Cherubic Blush

One of the largest trends we saw emerge from global fashion weeks, award season, and the 2026 Met Gala was cherubic blush: the dreamy diffusion of rosy pigment across the cheeks in a cloud-like manner. The subtle pops of pink sprinkled throughout Dior’s latest womenswear collection feel cohesive with this trend, so I’m leaning into rosy skin this season with a few essential blush products.

Dior’s Backstage Glow Maximizer Face Palette includes a cool-pink shimmer pigment that looks just like the hue of Dior’s chrysanthemum appliqués, and it makes the skin look extra healthy thanks to its shimmery finish. (Disco blush, if you will.) I’m also throwing one of Sabrina Carpenter’s go-to liquid blushes into the mix and blending Violette_FR’s new Plume Eye Shadows in the shade Pluie Violette onto my lids for a monochrome look.

Water-Lily Nails

Perhaps the most literal beauty interpretation of this collection that I’ve seen yet is this set by Milan-based professional and editorial manicurist Oksana Zavora. Each nail is accented with a smattering of water lilies, chrysanthemums, pastel French tips, and 3D decals in the form of bubbles or rhinestones—all directly inspired by the collection itself.

If having different nail art on each tip feels intimidating, try alternating milky pink, baby blue, and pastel green shades from finger to finger to get a similar look. I’m also referencing Chanel’s mermaid nails from the fashion house’s latest Cruise 26/27 show—where alternating colors were utilized in sheer, chrome shades—for this whimsical aesthetic.

Chiffon Lips

I usually don’t gravitate toward pink pinks when I do my makeup, no matter the season or the occasion. However, something about Anderson’s use of baby pink in this collection made me rethink my ways. When I got hold of Prada’s brand-new Touch Blush—a cream-to-powder product in elevated, pigmented shades—I used it about half of the time on my cheeks and the other half on my lips. The shades Waterlily and Tulip look extra sweet when tapped onto the lips, especially when applied atop YSL Beauty’s Kiss Shaper liners.

Fruity Femme Fragrances

If Dior’s relatively springy fall collection had a scent, it would be a flurry of fresh greenery, blooming flowers, seasonal fruits, and plump dewdrops. This bouquet of scents got me thinking about floral fragrances that flirt with notes of juicy fruit and sweet earth—so I quickly edited my spring perfume collection to include these three.

It may seem a little too on-theme, but I’d be remiss to overlook Dior’s sumptuous spring perfume offerings. Dior Addict Rosy Glow Eau de Parfum is a new scent that lands on the sweet end of the spectrum with a fruity, lychee base (an extremely popular ingredient right now) draped in a canopy of Damascus rose and dashed with creamy vanilla. For something a bit more sheer and green, I’m tossing Diptyque’s Vetyverio Eau de Toilette into the mix, and Jo Malone’s Poppy and Barley Cologne is my seasonal pick for something juicy and sweet that doesn’t lean gourmand.

I’ve long held the reputation of being a relatively type B person when it comes to travel. That is, until it’s time to plan outfits and makeup looks. I wait until the last minute to dig out my suitcase from under my bed, I look up restaurants once I get to my destination (a little too late, Alyssa), and I’ve even been scammed trying to buy tickets to Versailles 20 minutes before boarding a flight to Paris. (True story!) But when it comes to planning looks, you’d think I ran the Navy.

Ever since discovering the magic of Canva in college, I routinely mood-board my outfits and beauty looks before trips (and have even employed these skills on behalf of my friends). After developing a unique, but highly effective planning strategy—where I look up pictures of the interiors and atmosphere of every hotel, restaurant, and activity on my itinerary—I record every lipstick, item of jewelry, pair of shoes, and bag necessary, plus the different ways I can rearrange them throughout the duration of the trip. This doesn’t just make packing easier; it gives me a delicious new project every time I crack that suitcase open.

Now that I travel to chic places quite regularly for work, I’ve gotten this routine down to a science. So it’s not surprising that in the four trips I’ve taken this spring, I’ve found myself reaching for several of the same things when I get to packing (though seldom styling them the same way twice).

I packed spring into a suitcase several times over the last few weeks to visit Los Angeles, Miami, and Palm Springs. Keep scrolling to see what went inside.

In My Suitcase: Los Angeles

My several trips to Los Angeles found me between West Hollywood and downtown L.A., staying at the recently reinvented Sun Rose West Hollywood and the Soho Warehouse. I was in town for different things—a trip to the 2026 Grammys and to experience Sephoria, Sephora’s top-of-the-line beauty convention—but the planning process for both trips involved several of the same pieces from my overstuffed wardrobe and makeup collection.

As someone who grew up romanticizing L.A., I wanted to lean into the dreamy silver screen fantasy of it all. I wore ruffly, tiered tops that fluttered as I walked, pairing them with everything from lace-trimmed skirts to breezy linen pants. Each look had a dramatic, yet sweet detail—from mesh scarves tied around my waist to period-piece jackets (like I stepped off a movie set, no?), and deep, Hollywood starlet pouts. I’m nothing if not extra.

L.A. Outfit Essentials

L.A. Beauty Essentials

In My Suitcase: Miami

I flew straight from L.A. to Miami on an extended work trip this spring, so much of my Californian wardrobe bled into my Floridian one. But as I mentioned earlier, I tailor my looks to the environment around me—and vibrant Miami could not be more different than the breezy Western digs I was coming from.

My Miami ensembles blended classic silhouettes with breathable fabrics; loud, layered necklaces with ‘80s-inspired animal prints. (A stark deviation from the romantic lace pieces and structured shoulders I was working with in L.A.) Beauty was a bit more intentional here as well: I focused on plush, glowing skin by mixing bronzing drops with Isdin’s Fusion Water Magic Sunscreen, plumped my lips with Wonderskin’s viral lip stain and a dewy gloss, and scented my skin with a mix of summery fragrances and body creams.

Miami Outfit Essentials

Miami Beauty Essentials

In My Suitcase: Palm Springs

My time in Palm Springs was marked by Coachella—where I sported everything from grungy glitter on my eyes (an ode to the “pirate makeup” trend that Sydney Stanback, Global Trends and Insights Lead at Pinterest, reported would dominate music festival season) to color-blocked pool outfits and shimmery, sheer dresses. Though there were a few similarities between my L.A. and Palm Springs wardrobes, notably a recurring Mango square scarf (worn over my head and tied around my waist more times than I can count), the biggest difference here was the ultra-glam festival makeup. Oh, and maybe my trusty cowboy boots.

Beauty played the largest role in Palm Springs of any of my destinations, thanks to the Coachella of it all. I loaded on the glitter shadows from Isamaya’s Core 2.0 palette—the kind that look wet, never gritty or kitschy—and relied heavily on sunscreen and SPF-infused makeup formulas. More on that below.

Palm Springs Outfit Essentials

Palm Springs Beauty Essentials

There's something so cathartic about a spring clean-out. You feel lighter, more refreshed, and certainly stripped of the dead weight of your outdated winter sweaters and those expired skincare bottles. That said, once those boxes are donated and glass tubes are recycled, you're usually left with a small shopping list for restocking the essentials—and that's exactly what I'm in the midst of.

As a beauty editor who's made a living out of online shopping, I've become quite savvy when it comes to sourcing deals. I avoid paying full price for all of my beauty essentials if I can help it, and thanks to my experience surfing the sale sections, I've found all of the staples in my spring refresh slashed as high as 51% off. From daily face washes to chic, springtime nail polishes, this is the on-sale-only haul that saved me $209.

15 On-Sale Spring Beauty Essentials

The very first makeup product that made my heart skip was a pot of lilac eye shadow. I don't remember the specific shade or even the brand name (it most likely came from the drugstore), but I can recall exactly how I felt when I dusted it across my lids: elegantly grown-up, ethereal, and just so pretty. I wore it every single day to middle school—paired with a raccoon-like ring of black eyeliner, of course—and to this day, soft purple eye shadow remains a special staple.

As you can probably guess, I'm beyond psyched that lavender eye makeup is seeing a chic resurgence. I first clocked it on Quinta Brunson, who wore a wash of purple shadow at this year's Critics Choice Awards, then on Amelia Gray Hamlin, who donned purple eyes paired with a custom Swarovski dress at the Golden Globes. Laufey quickly followed, cosigning lavender with mermaid-esque makeup fit for a Grammy winner, then Barbie Ferreira arrived to Coachella rocking lilac lids. And finally, we have Rihanna, who just officially cemented soft purple eye shadow as the hottest spring makeup trend. The middle schooler in me is screaming!

Yesterday, Rihanna—and Rocki, her 7-month-old daughter with A$AP Rocky—starred on the cover of W Magazine's Pop Issue. She's absolutely regal in head-to-toe Dior (including a custom Dior diaper for baby Rocki!), but my beauty-editor eyes immediately zeroed in on the halo of purple and orange eye shadow on her top and bottom lids. Created by Daniel Sällström, the glam certainly aligns with the makeup artist's high-fashion, experimental work and pairs perfectly with the star's purple statement hat.

This isn't the first time Rihanna cosigned a soft purple eye look. Remember when she attended a 2023 Fenty x Puma event wearing a purple fuzzy jacket and matching shadow? And who could forget her violet glam in the "What's My Name" music video? While lavender eyes are taking the red carpet by storm—as Who What Wear predicted months ago in our inaugural Red Carpet Beauty Report—Rihanna has been rocking them for years. Consider her the blueprint for this pretty spring beauty trend.

While we aren't 100% sure which eye shadow Sällström used on the cover, we do know Rihanna wore plenty of Fenty Beauty products for the shoot, so I have to assume she incorporated her new Shadowstix Eyeshadow Stick in Miss Pri$$y (a sparkly lilac) into the look. Feel free to shop the hero product below, along with more celeb-approved soft purple eye makeup to wear for the rest of spring.

Shop Soft Purple Eye Shadow

For as long as I can remember, I've always had watery eyes, and I've always loved eye makeup. However, the two don't go well together. All it takes is a slight gust of wind or a sudden change in temperature, and my watery eyes stream and ruin my makeup.

And if you're anything like me, you've probably had your eye makeup ruined on more than one occasion thanks to those rogue tears that seemingly come from nowhere and melt away eyeliner and eyeshadow in their wake. I've lost count of the number of times a soft, smoky wing has disappeared. I have watery eyes year-round, but with hayfever season in full swing right now, I've been on a quest to find out how to stop watery eyes from ruining my makeup, once and for all.

So, I enlisted the help of Dr Elizabeth Hawkes, a consultant oculoplastic surgeon and ophthalmologist, to find out the causes of watery eyes and how to stop them from ruining your eye makeup.

What Causes Watery Eyes?

"Blepharitis is the number one cause of dry eye, which is an umbrella term that encompasses lots of symptoms, i.e., redness or a gritty or foreign body sensation and, ironically, dry eyes as the eye makes excess tears when dry," says Dr Hawkes. "There can be many causes, such as allergies, medical conditions or as a result of certain oral medications, but it’s always best to see an eye specialist or an optician as there are subtle differences."

Blocked Tear Ducts: "If it’s just one eye, it could be a blocked tear duct. If you have a blockage, you will have a watery eye, which can be caused by trauma to the tear duct. It can be congenital or caused by an infection, but it needs a thorough assessment," says Dr Hawkes. "A common test eye specialists conduct is to ask patients if their eyes are watering indoors and outdoors. If they water indoors, it’s highly suggestive of blockage. If it’s a duct blockage, you need surgery, but it depends on what layer or level the obstruction is at, as this determines how invasive it needs to be," she adds.

Dry Eyes: "If it’s blepharitis and associated dry eye—watery eye syndrome—the mainstay of treatment is ironically with lubricating eye drops, which can be a tricky concept for patients to get their heads around," says Dr Hawkes. "This is because the more lubricated the ocular surface is, the less likely you are to trigger the lacrimal gland to produce tears." Eye drops can help to rehydrate the eyes and prevent them from overcompensating with excessive tears.

Allergies: "If it’s allergy-related, it needs to be investigated and looked at for the cause. Either way, there are lots of different eye drop options available to the different causes that can all treat the condition efficiently," she says.

Can Makeup Make Watery Eyes Worse?

Depending on the cause of your watery eyes, you may find that makeup can exacerbate symptoms. "Blepharitis is the most common cause, which causes blockage of the meibomian glands, which are specialised glands in between the eyelashes, that secrete an oily layer of tear film," says Dr Hawkes. "They open on the waterline, so when you apply eyeliner or mascara, you’re irritating and directly blocking these glands," she says.

"Generally, I would avoid using eyeliner on the waterline and use products suitable for sensitive skin. Clinique has a brilliant 'eye safety promise’ as the products undergo rigorous testing on how they affect the ocular surface, which not many brands do," she says. "Be cautious with application and always remove eye makeup properly, especially if you have sensitive eyes."

How to Stop Watery Eyes From Ruining Makeup

Preventing watery eyes is the key step to minimise the risk of them ruining your eye makeup, and there are some preventative steps you can take to reduce watery eyes.

Cleanse the Eyes: "Much like a thorough skincare routine and ensuring your skin is in a healthy condition to create a good base for makeup, proper cleansing and care of the eye is key here," says Dr Hawkes. "Ophthalmologists call it ‘lid hygiene’, and this is a must, removing in between the lashes morning and evening to ensure glands don’t get blocked," she says. "Optase Life Sensitive Eye Makeup Remover (£10) is a great one. It has no harsh surfactants that affect the lipid layer on the eyes and does a great job at thoroughly removing makeup."

Practice Good Makeup Hygiene: "Having good makeup hygiene is vital. This includes removing makeup properly, cleaning your brushes, not keeping mascara for years or using expired or dried-out products," she says. Typically, you should replace your mascara every 3-6 months, cream eyeshadows every 12-18 months and powder eyeshadows every 1-2 years. As a general rule of thumb, cream formulations tend to expire more quickly, so go through your makeup bag and check the expiry dates on the products you're using. Additionally, ensure you're regularly washing your makeup brushes, too.

Opt for Cream Eye Makeup: Whilst Dr Hawkes doesn't flag any particular ingredients to avoid in your makeup, she does favour cream over powder formulas. "Specific ingredients in makeup aren’t as important; however, I always advise cream-based eyeshadows and makeup, because powder particles might go into the eye and cause irritation," she says.

Eye Makeup to Avoid: Having spoken to makeup artists over the years, I've learned that it's best to avoid eyeshadows with glitter or shimmer, as they can cause fallout and further irritate the eyes. As for your lashes, tubing mascaras are great as they're long-wearing, but remove easily from the eyes with warm water. Waterproof mascaras are great for avoiding smudges; however, they are more difficult to remove, so look for a good eye makeup remover to fully remove them.

Look for Eye-Safe Brands: "Additionally, I recommend products and brands that have been tested, much like Clinique’s eye safety promise," she says. Look for brands and products that have been ophthalmologist-tested to minimise eye irritation. Additionally, if you're a contact lens wearer, Dr Hawkes says that this can cause problems in itself, so be very mindful to take extra care of your eyes. She also recommends avoiding eyelash extensions if you're prone to issues.

If your watery eyes persist, always seek medical advice. "If you leave anything too long, it can affect your vision, so it’s best to be safe and cautious when it comes to your eyesight," says Dr Hawkes.

How to Fix Eye Makeup

Whether it's a windy day or there is a high pollen count on an important occasion, there are times when smudged eye makeup just needs to be fixed. I've lost count of the number of times I've had my makeup professionally done for a wedding or special occasion, only for it to be ruined by my watering eyes. Here are my tips for fixing it.

Dab, don't rub: Avoid rubbing the area and instead dab with a tissue to remove any excess tears. Often, the area can become dry, so you can rehydrate the area with a sensitive skin-friendly eye cream. This will help to hydrate and soothe any irritation around the eyes. For quick fixes, a Q-tip can help clean up smaller smudges, or you can use a small makeup brush to tidy up smudged eyeliner wings.

Fix the Base: If the situation requires you to fully reapply the makeup, there are a few things you can do. Applying a little concealer can help create a gripper canvas for eye makeup, and it can then be fixed with a pressed setting powder to create a waterproof barrier. Applying with a puff rather than a brush is best to avoid particles from going into the eyes. Tap onto the skin to set the concealer.

Apply Eye Makeup: Waterproof eyeliners or long-wearing eyeshadows (such as cream-to-powder formulas) will provide the best wear. You can also apply a small amount of powder eyeshadow over a cream formula to set your eye makeup. Just ensure the area is fully dry from tears; otherwise, the eye makeup won't adhere. Then, you can apply a setting spray to help lock it in (just keep your eyes closed when you're misting, of course!).

Carry the Essentials: Keep some of your core products with you in case it needs fixing or topping up throughout the day. Alongside your makeup, eye drops or mists can help refresh the eyes throughout the day, and sunglasses are useful for shielding eyes from gusts of wind, or even hiding smudged eye makeup as a last resort.

Best Products for Watery Eyes

I might be a makeup artist (and a beauty editor), but up until a few years ago, I could never get my eyeshadow to last longer than one hour, tops. I put it down to my oily eyelids (those of you with oilier complexions will relate) and assumed I had to say goodbye to eyeshadow altogether.

It’s not that I hadn’t heard of primers before (specifically, eyeshadow primers), it was that I was yet to come across one that actually worked. Whether I used a powder formula or eyeshadow stick over the top, my eye makeup still creased almost straight away.

However, when my friend wouldn’t stop raving about the Nars Pro Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base, I thought, maybe I should give this product another go. So, when we were getting ready for a night out, I applied a generous helping of her go-to eyeshadow primer, and lo and behold, my eye makeup stayed in place after hours of bar hopping around Soho.

I wouldn’t go as far as to say it was a pivotal moment in my life, but it did feel good to know that I could actually wear eyeshadow again. So much so that over the past month, I’ve made it my mission to test more of the most popular eyeshadow primer formulas, and have created a concise edit of products that truly work. Intrigued to know more? Just keep on scrolling.

The Best Eyeshadow Primers, Tried & Tested

• Best Overall: Nars Pro Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base, £26
• Best Hydrating Formula: Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Eye Primer, £23
• Best for Creasing: Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion, £24
• Best Lightweight Formula: Too Faced Shadow Insurance, £21
• Best for an Even Skin Tone: Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer, £30

1. Nars Pro Prime Smudge Proof Eyeshadow Base

I mean, I had to start with Nars, didn't I? This is, hands down, the best eyeshadow primer I have ever used. The doe-foot applicator makes it easy to swipe straight onto the lid, and although the product comes out white, it dries down to a clear matte finish, perfect for prepping your eyes for any number of colourful eyeshadow looks. If I'm doing a heavier makeup look or plan to be out all day (or night), this is the product I reach for, as it really keeps my eyeshadow in place. If you have oily eyelids, I couldn't recommend it enough.

2. Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Eye Primer

If your eyelids are on the drier side, but you still want to use a primer, I recommend this one from Milk Makeup. A blend of hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and aloe water, this formula is hydrating and creates a smooth, long-lasting base for eyeshadow. The clear formula and doe-foot applicator make it a dream to use, and if you've tried Milk Makeup primers before, then you'll know just how effective this is.

3. Urban Decay Eyeshadow Primer Potion

This primer is somewhat of an icon in the makeup world, but as someone who had never tried it before, I was skeptical about whether it would actually work. As it turns out, it really does. The packaging is a little smaller than others in this roundup, so it's a great one for travelling (there is also a smaller travel-size tube available). It also comes with a doe-foot applicator so you can swipe it straight onto the lid, and the formula is a light beige colour, but undetectable once dry. I loved testing this primer because it was great at minimising creasing throughout the day. I applied a nude powder eyeshadow on top, and it had barely creased by the time I got home from work. Very impressive considering my eyeshadow has normally creased by the time I walk through the office door in the morning.

4. Too Faced Shadow Insurance

If you're looking for a creamy yet lightweight option, Too Faced's Shadow Insurance has got you covered. It has this gorgeous, velvety texture that glides onto the skin, creating a smooth, long-lasting base for your eyeshadow. Plus, it smells incredible, like a summer holiday in a bottle. I'll definitely be reaching for it this season when the hot weather threatens to ruin my makeup.

5. Nars Soft Matte Complete Concealer

6. Makeup by Mario Master Mattes LW Cream Eyeshadow

Again, not technically an eyeshadow primer, but an incredible product to help your eye makeup last. I first started using this Makeup By Mario product as intended, a liquid eyeshadow, but quickly realised it also made a great base for powder eyeshadow products. It has a matte finish and a long-lasting formula, and comes in a range of neutral shades.

What Is an Eyeshadow Primer?

An eyeshadow primer is similar to a normal makeup primer, helping that gorgeous, glowy makeup look you've spent ages on last longer. However, as the name suggests, these primers are specifically designed for the eyelid area. "Eyeshadow primers are a necessary part of my makeup prep on set because they keep eye shadows in place," explains Sara Wren, director of artistry at Milk Makeup. "Eyeshadows often don’t show up, fade or can crease over the course of the day, but a good primer will prevent that from happening."

As Wren explained to me, most primers come in liquid or cream form, and some contain pigment to help even out the eyelid area. "My favourite eyeshadow primers are colourless—they won’t change the payoff of the product that I apply on top."

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 over the years—spanning skincare, makeup, hair and nails—and work closely with trusted experts including dermatologists, makeup 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.

Millennials and Gen Zers grew up in the YouTube convention era, when events like Comic-Con, BravoCon, and Beautycon were created so fandoms could turn online communities into real-life connections. There's a multitude of fan groups in the ether (does anyone remember Vine’s Magcon?), but beauty can be far too broad to condense into one singular convention center. To combat this, Sephoria was born in 2018—putting devoted Sephora shoppers in the same rooms as their favorite beauty founders, influencers, and brands, and I got a firsthand look at just what this beauty utopia had to offer.

Between master classes with celebrity makeup artists and hairstylists such as Mario Dedivanovic (Makeup by Mario) and Chris Appleton, meet-and-greet moments with founders/internet celebrities like Claudia Sulewski (creator of Cyklar), and the heaping tote of products attendees got to take home with their tickets, there was no shortage of beauty bliss at the convention center in downtown Los Angeles. When I parsed through my surprise bag of best-selling perfumes, travel-sized goodies, hot skincare launches, and more, I knew I had to share the wealth in order to test it all.

Lucky for me, my parents and a set of their closest friends were touching down in NYC shortly after my return from L.A., which meant that I'd have a few extra helpers when it came to testing my haul. After a few weeks of experimenting with more than 120 Sephora products, my (very picky) mom and I put our heads together to discuss which products we'd actually buy again. Below, see our winners from Jo Malone, Makeup by Mario, and more.

Top Fragrances

Top Skincare and Bodycare

Top Makeup Products

Top Hair Product

Ever since beginning my career as a beauty editor, I've become the unofficial (ahem, unpaid) personal shopper for my family and friends. It's part of my daily routine to research for loved ones who crave the answers to their burning beauty questions: Which drugstore concealer won't crease? Is the new Armani Luminous Silk Foundation worth it? What perfume should I buy my mom for Mother's Day? In chronological order, the answers are Maybelline's Instant Age Rewind Eraser Concealer, yes, and Jo Malone's new Yuzu Zest Cologne.

I understand that beauty hauls can get quite pricey, so I usually advise everyone to wait until a sale like Sephora's spring Savings Event to hit "purchase" on larger shopping sprees. Thankfully, this sitewide sale is officially on until April 20, and Beauty Insiders can save up to 30% on their purchases (depending on membership level) when they enter the code SPRINGSALE at checkout.

Putting my shopping expertise to good use, I decided to give myself a budget of $220 (before the discount) and pick out products that are not only trendy but also extremely worth buying now that they're on sale. Yes, I've tested them all. Below, see the products I'd recommend from Rhode, Prada Beauty, Makeup by Mario, and more.

Sephora Savings Event Shopping List for $220

We've officially hit $220, and you can head to checkout here with a stellar haul that will make your life easier and send your beauty game through the roof. If you feel like doing a bit more shopping, allow me to point you in the direction of a few more favorites.

More Beauty Products to Shop During Sephora's Sale

It's been five years since we last spoke to Lucy Hale about her beauty routine, and I can confirm the actress's skin looks just as clear and glowy as it appeared in 2021. (In fact, I'd even say her complexion has remained virtually unchanged since we were introduced to her as Aria Montgomery during the 2010 pilot of Pretty Little Liars.) Yet as we sit in a dimly lit treatment room at NYC's Sage + Sound, she reveals her skin has experienced quite a few shifts underneath the surface—so much so that she evolved her entire approach.

"In 2021, I was probably still in my 'more is more' phase," she says. After all, it was around this time her Vogue Beauty Secrets video—which showcased a 25-step skin and makeup regimen—went absolutely bananas on the internet. Today, it's safe to say she's cut that routine by more than half. "I'm five years older, so my priorities are a little bit different. I have to approach my skin type differently," she says. These days, hyperpigmentation and fine lines are her main concerns ("It's all happening," she jokes), so a partnership with Shiseido—which just added two new products to its Benefiance brightening and smoothing range—was practically written in the stars. "I have always loved Shiseido's products. To me, it's classic, and the Benefiance line is beautiful," she says. "Once I find a product that I like, I like when it comes in a trio or package because then I know it's going to attack at all angles."

The Benefiance collection does just that, offering a serum, moisturizer, and eye cream with impeccable line-smoothing, dark spot-fading power. The serum and moisturizer also come spiked with picão preto, a plant-derived retinol alternative that's been shown to stimulate collagen levels and smooth wrinkles—and because there's no actual retinol in the formulas, you can use it day and night without any photosensitivity concerns. Of course, Hale still stresses the importance of daily sunscreen, praising Shiseido's Urban Environment line for its sensoriality. "It's so sheer, and you can mix it in your foundation. It's so nice," she says.

From there, her skin must-haves include a gua sha (In the morning, I just need to wake my skin up a little bit," she shares) and an LED mask from Jovs. "LED light really does wonders for my skin," she adds.

Her makeup routine follows a similar "less is more" M.O. Don't get me wrong, Hale still loves to accentuate her wide, hazel-green eyes, but she'd rather strategically enhance them with shadow than globs of mascara and eyeliner. "I'm really into the no-mascara [look]. Somehow that almost makes my eyes pop more," she tells me. "Sometimes I'll put clear brow gel on my lashes just so they fan out, but it doesn't give them any more pigment." Charlotte Tilbury's Brow Fix is the MVP, as it boasts a clump-free formula and small, precise brush.

The go-to technique seems rather at odds with Aria Montgomery, particularly her daytime smokey eye that populated beauty mood boards in the 2010s. "In 2016, I was loading up on mascara. I loved an eyeliner," Hale reflects on her Pretty Little Liars days. "I don't think I even own an eyeliner anymore." Today, she'd much rather define her orbs with a soft shadow—namely Charlotte Tilbury's Filmstar Bronze & Glow Contour Duo, which she applies along her lash line for some subtle dimension. "It pops the green [in my eyes]," she notes.

Don't think that means Hale shies away from the occasional bold glam; she did sport rose gold locks back in 2018, after all. "I love a dramatic haircut. I'm growing out my hair right now, but me at prime Lucy is a blunt, short bob," she says. "I feel like I try to change it up with every acting gig I have." Of course, I have to ask her if we can expect a big chop—or any other beauty experiment—for spring and summer. "No big surprises yet," she smiles. "But if I told you, it wouldn't be a surprise." Who knows? In another five years, we might look back on this conversation as the impetus for Hale's next beauty era.

Shop Lucy Hale's 2026 Skin and Makeup Routine

To be honest, this was arguably the easiest beauty testing experience I've ever encountered. Victoria Beckham Beauty is responsible for some of my favorite makeup products of all time (in fact, if I could only use one brand for the rest of my life, it'd probably be VBB), so committing to the brand for 16 days was a piece of cake. I often wear a full face of VBB without even thinking about it!

Celebrity makeup artist Kelli Anne Sewell also considers herself a brand loyalist, gushing over the easy-to-use, high-quality, and luxurious formulas. "I think I am Victoria Beckham Beauty's biggest fan. I'm not kidding," she tells me. Suffice it to say, VBB is her makeup-kit staple. She adds, "There is something super high-end about the packaging—which, as a consumer, makes me want to pick up the products—but as an artist, the formulas shine through." Yes, VBB's products are pricey, but the sleek packaging, jaw-dropping shades, and sensorially appealing formulas make them incredibly worth it. Sewell agrees. "You'll be happy in performance and look forward to picking the packaging up," she says. "Very sturdy. Not flimsy. Feels expensive."

Now, unless you're planning to completely overhaul your makeup bag, you're probably wondering which few products you should grab first. Below, discover the staples I reached for the most during my testing phase and now refuse to give up along with Sewell's MUA holy grails. Behold, the ultimate VBB shopping list.

The 13 Best Victoria Beckham Beauty Products to Buy

Satin Kajal Liner

The Foundation Drops

The Concealer Pen

Contour Stylus

Future Lash Mascara

Eye Wardrobe

BabyBlade Eyebrow Pencil

Colour Wash Bronze Water Tint

Colour Wash Blush Water Tint

Posh Lip

Lip Definer: Waterproof Lip Liner

Portofino '97 Eau de Parfum

21:50 Rêverie Eau de Parfum

Is Victoria Beckham Beauty a high-end brand?

Yes, definitely. Victoria Beckham Beauty is tagged at luxury price points (the beloved Foundation Drops, for example, will set you back $110), but trust that the high-quality formulas are worth the investment. "I think it can be your special-occasion splurge," Sewell shares. Not to mention, the products themselves are so richly pigmented that they'll last you quite a while. For instance, I've had my Colour Wash blushes for almost a year and am nowhere near hitting pan despite using them daily.

Is Victoria Beckham Beauty a clean beauty brand?

There's no set definition of "clean," but generally, Victoria Beckham Beauty is a safe, skin-loving, ethically responsible brand. It steers clear of mineral oil, cyclic silicones, paraffin wax, PEGs, and oxybenzone. Feel free to check out the brand's Excluded Ingredients page, which is frequently updated to reflect emerging data, for a full "no list" breakdown. On a sustainability note, VBB has partnered with Pact Collective, a nonprofit that collects notoriously hard-to-recycle beauty products, like containers with pumps, and breaks them down responsibly. All you have to do is mail in your empties.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Over the years, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

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

Everyone has their own very specific preferences when it comes to their mascara. Some want a lengthening mascara, whereas others prefer a volumising formula to add bulk to each lash. Some swear by flexible comb wands, whereas others will only let bristle wands near their eyelashes. Personally, I'm all for curling mascaras to help my stubbornly straight eyelashes. However, I've always found it hard to find a mascara that keeps them standing to attention all day long. And that's where lifting mascaras come in.

Previously, I would usually rely on a waterproof mascara to lock the curl in place; however, let's be honest. They can be a pain to remove without a good makeup remover. Some curling mascaras work for me, but some just don't cut it for my stick-straight lashes. However, lifting mascaras do all the heavy lifting, keeping the lashes up from the root for a wide-eyed look.

However, with so many mascaras around, it can be hard to find one that really works. Thankfully, I'm able to test so many mascaras for my job as a beauty editor, so I've listed the best lifting mascaras I've tried below. Trust me, your eyelashes won't flop with these lash-lifting formulas.

Best Lifting Mascaras

• Best Overall: Lancôme Lash Idôle Mascara (£28)
• Best Affordable Mascara: L'Oréal Paris Big Deal Mascara (£14)
• Best Lash Lift Mascara: The Ordinary Lash Curl Finisher (£9)
• Best Luxury Mascara: Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara (£31)
• Best Lengthening Mascara: L'Oréal Paris Telescopic Extensionist Mascara (£14)

1. Lancôme Lash Idôle Mascara

Honestly, I love all of Lancôme's mascaras, but when it comes to lifting and holding a curl, this is the best one. The curved, flexible wand glides through lashes, lifting, lengthening and defining each one with a silky, featherlight formula that feels soft and comfortable to the touch. One coat delivers a subtle, lifted finish, while a second adds extra drama without any clumping in sight. It’s not the most volumising option out there, but if you lean towards a more naturally defined lash look, you won't be disappointed.

2. Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara

You may have heard a lot of hype around the Ilia Limitless Lash Mascara, and I'm here to tell you that it's justified. Featuring a flexible comb with two bristle lengths, the shorter side works to lift lashes from the root, while the longer, comb-like bristles help to lengthen and separate, and it keeps your lashes lifted all day. It's not technically a tubing mascara formula, but it completely melts away with just warm water between your fingertips, and it's a great mascara for sensitive eyes, too. Available in both black and brown, this mascara is packed with lash-conditioning ingredients like shea butter and beeswax to help keep lashes soft and healthy.

3. L'Oréal Paris Paradise Big Deal Mascara

I couldn't believe my lashes when I tried this mascara. Admittedly, I've layered up with a few coats of the L'Oréal Paris Paradise Big Deal Mascara here, but just look at the lift! The bendy wand scoops the lashes up for instant lifting, and it holds in place all day long. It's a great all-rounder that lengthens, curls, lifts and volumises without clumping or looking spidery. Honestly, it rivals some of the more expensive mascaras I've tested, and I'm never without a tube now.

4. The Ordinary Lash Curl Finisher

Okay, The Ordinary Lash Curl Finisher isn't technically a mascara. But if you want the look of a lash lift, but without wearing anything heavy on your lashes, then you have to try this clear mascara. You simply curl your lashes with an eyelash curler, then sweep the clear formula from root to tip, and it locks in the curl all day to make you look like you have naturally curled and lifted lashes. There's a slight tackiness to it if you apply too much, but one coat is enough to hold the curl and give some subtle definition.

5. Lancôme Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara

In case you hadn't already guessed, Lancômes mascaras are amongst some of my favourites, so the second one from the brand in this list, the Lash Idôle Curl Goddess Mascara, is also deserving of a spot in your makeup bag. In comparison to the original Lash Idôle, this one delivers a more dramatic, false lash effect. It lifts lashes up with lasting hold in addition to achieving a generous curl, length and volume for a doe-eyed flutter. I find one coat is more than enough for a dramatic look.

6. Dior Diorshow Iconic Overcurl Mascara Waterproof

Whenever I'm asked for a good waterproof mascara that also delivers on curl and lift, this is the one I recommend. The curved wand of this Dior mascara scoops the lashes up from the root with generous lift and curl, and is easily layered depending on whether you prefer a defined and lengthened look, or something more dramatic with multiple coats. Waterproof formulas such as this one are a great choice if you have stubbornly straight lashes, as the long-wearing formulas work even harder to lock in a curl, ensuring your lashes don't droop throughout the day.

7. Hourglass Unlocked Instant Extensions Mascara

I adore just about any Hourglass makeup product that launches, but Hourglass mascaras are next-level. This was one of the first mascaras I tried that truly kept my curled lashes lifted for the entire day. Yes, it has a luxurious price tag to match the formula, but if you want to invest in a luxury mascara, then you won't be disappointed. The flexible wand lengthens, lifts and defines each lash, and it stays put throughout the entire day. It's also a tubing formula, so it removes effortlessly at the end of the day with just warm water.

9. Rimmel Wonder'bond Lash Filler + Hyaluronic Mascara

Rimmel Wonder'bond Lash Filler + Hyaluronic Mascara is one of the best high street mascaras I've tried in the past year, and it has the added bonus of being an incredible nourishing formula for your eyelashes. The curved brush hugs the base of the lashes and grabs onto each and every one to define, lengthen and lift with zero clumps. The only downside? It can be prone to transferring onto the lids, so it's something to be mindful of, especially for hooded eyes.

10. L'Oréal Paris Telescopic Extensionist Mascara

11. Benefit Badgal Bang! Volumizing Mascara

If it's volume and lift that you're after, then you can't go wrong with any of the Benefit mascaras, but the Bad Gal Bang Mascara is in a league of its own. "If a volumising mascara is what you're after, this is the one to invest in," says deputy beauty editor, Grace Lindsay. "I would go as far as to say that this is the best mascara Benefit has ever created, but if you prefer a more natural look, then this probably isn't for you." It really does keep your lashes lifted and curled for the entire day and night, ensuring you look wide-eyed from application to removal at the end of the day.

How We Tested

As beauty editors, we've tested hundreds of mascaras between us, so we've found the best lifting mascaras that get the job done. And as a beauty editor with stubbornly straight eyelashes that struggle to stay lifted with even a curling mascara, I've put each of these lifting mascaras through their paces. I evaluated the overall look of the mascara and how it performed with lengthening, curling and volumising, but most importantly, I took note of which ones held my curl and kept my lashes lifted all day long. Each mascara was worn over several months to ensure its effectiveness.

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 some 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.

Jessie Buckley is everywhere right now thanks to her new appointment as the 2026 Oscar's Best Actress for her role as Agnes Shakespeare in Chloé Zhao's Hamnet. But just weeks before heading to the British countryside to step into the role of England's most renowned playwright's wife, Buckley was wrapping another film about a famous bride—this time set in 1930s Chicago with a much different backstory. Buckley swapped her signature bixie haircut and minimalist glam for bleached brows, bruised eyes, and an ink-splattered mouth to become the undead focus of Maggie Gyllenhaal's reinvented Frankenstein film, The Bride!

Though Buckley's scene-stealing performance as the self-described "feral" main character—who oscillates between the names Penelope, Ida, and, finally, The Bride—is entirely unforgettable, the aspect of film that became seared into the minds of us beauty editors was the star's striking look, which was ripe with bruised discoloration and black smears emanating from the corner of her mouth. The culprit? The film's decorated head makeup artist, Nadia Stacey, not just the messy hand of her mad-scientist maker.

You may recognize Stacey's work on Emma Stone for her shape-shifting roles in Poor Things and Cruella, but this romantic thriller guided the hair and makeup head down a campier road.

"From a makeup perspective, I knew there were so many incredible opportunities to create character," Stacey tells Who What Wear about her initial pull toward the script. "I love a reimagining of classic stories—an opportunity to redesign and put my own slant on something."

The original material that Stacey put said slant on was a Frankensteined affair. (Forgive the pun.) There were the obvious references to the 1935 horror Bride of Frankenstein—where Elsa Lanchester, donning a white-streaked, electrocuted wig and blackened lips, portrayed the monster's resurrected mate. Then there were the more subtle nods to Man Ray and Pat McGrath's runway looks for Galliano, the latter of which Stacey called "a huge inspiration." In the end, a patchwork of references stitched together the picture we now have of The Bride, but the look's defining mark was a love child of Stacey, Gyllenhaal, and Buckley.

You see, The Bride's stark black stain was never written into the script. It was a result of the trio's brainstorming and an element that would soon become a trademark design of the film, splashed across movie posters and premiere carpets alike. "[It was written] that she would have black ink pumped through her veins as part of the reinvigoration process," Stacey explains. "Maggie, Jessie, and I talked about what would actually happen in the process, and we thought about her sitting up and coughing—the ink splashing across her face." We later see this spillage everywhere, draining from her ears, trickling down her collarbones, and streaming from major arteries on the inside of her arm.

On any set, no-budge beauty products are a must for long shoot days and early morning hair and makeup, which is why the artist turned to Pat McGrath Labs for Buckley's haunting look. "I needed staying power, so I relied on Pat McGrath's Sublime Perfection Primer," she states. Though The Bride's makeup changes throughout the film (most notably before death and after), there are elements of the character's look that remain, and if you examine closely, you can spot the Pat McGrath magic.

The Bride wears a "tired girl" medley of drooping plum and pink eye shadow before she has her accident, a nod to the time period with a touch of runway inspiration. "I wanted something that was period but also showed a 1930s good-time girl," she explains. "The colors would still be on her eye when she dies and is invigorated, so it needed to work in the next look." Post-resurrection, her rosy eye makeup morphs into pinkish-purple bruises, all made possible with the Pat McGrath Mothership IX: Huetopian Dream palette. A few other musts in her kit were the Mothership XI: Sunlit Seduction palette and PermaGel Eye Pencil in Xtreme Black.

It was Pat McGrath's silent stamp on Stacey's makeup kit that resulted in a celebratory collaboration—a collection of best sellers sold in The Bride!–themed kits, plus a limited-edition version of the Lip Sculpt + Shade Contour Duo outfitted in bespoke movie packaging. "Collaborating with Pat is always exciting. She is a visionary and a huge inspiration in my work," says Stacey. "Making The Bride's makeup something that can be taken into everyday looks is really exciting. Makeup is versatile, and there are no rules, so you can be as extreme or downplay as much as you want with the look.” And play our editors did thanks to the latest buzzy film collaboration for Pat McGrath Labs.

Shop The Bride's Look

I'm a beauty editor who is incredibly fussy about her eyebrows generally, but especially so when it comes to eyebrow pencils. If it doesn't have a micro-fine tip, it's not going in my makeup bag.

You see, I find so many makeup brands' brow pencils to be far too thick and chunky for my liking. They have their place for shading and creating shape, of course. But as someone with thick yet unbalanced brows, I require a few precision strokes to balance them out before I coax them into place with my brow gel.

Which is why I've always favoured a few delicate strokes from a micro-fine nib to fill in sparse areas, without looking like I've drawn on my brows. The 2016 era may be rearing its head as a comeback beauty trend, but I won't be revisiting the dip-brow look, thank you very much.

Micro-fine brow pencils allow you to achieve the most natural-looking "no makeup" makeup effect when it comes to your brows. If you favour a natural brow look or a feathery finish, they're perfect for adding definition, stroke-by-stroke, without ever looking heavy. I personally love them for creating balance in my brows (I know eyebrows are meant to be sisters, not twins, but mine don't look related at all) by adding a few strokes at the front of my left brow, which is more sparse, and creating more of an arch in my right brow to make them look more symmetrical.

As well as fine strokes, I also want a brow formula that's not going to melt off after five minutes of being on the London Underground or smudge when sat in the park. The good news is that I've tried a lot of eyebrow pencils in my quest for the finest nibs, so I'm sharing the (very few) that met my high expectations below.

Best Micro-Fine Brow Pencils

• Best Overall: Glossier Boy Brow Arch (£24)
• Best Micro Pencil: Morphe Nano Brow Pencil (£11)
• Best Natural-Looking Pencil: Merit Beauty Brow 1990 (£21)
• Best Affordable Pencil: E.l.f Ultra Precise Brow Pencil (£7)
• Best Brow Pen: L'Oréal Paris Infallible Faux Brow Tint Pen (£12)

1. Glossier Boy Brow Arch Pomade Pencil

This is, hands down, the finest brow pencil I've come across. The angular nib itself is slender, and you can use the sharp edge to create feathery brow hairs, or use the flatter side to shade and fill in areas, too. The pencil itself also has a flat canvas on the brush lid, so you can use it to sharpen the edge of the nib after a few uses. I love it because it allows me to create realistic brow hairs to shape my brows and add definition to sparse areas where other brow pencils are just too thick. I have nothing bad to say about it, other than it runs out quite quickly and makes it quite expensive for the price. That being said, I'm still willing to part with my money for it. My biggest claim to fame is that when I interviewed Gracie Abrams, she told me I had "great eyebrows", and this was the brow pencil I was wearing.

2. Morphe Nano Brow Pencil

The brow pencil is brilliant for the price, and I've repeatedly purchased it several times. The micro-fine tip (which is just 0.9 mm—can you believe it?) delivers the finest of strokes without dragging, so you can replicate brow hairs with precision. It effortlessly glides onto the skin and offers just the right amount of pigment, so you don't need to press hard. I love it to fill in sparse areas at the front of my brow without it looking blocky or heavy, but you can layer it up for a full look too. A great staple for your makeup bag if you want a pencil that you never have to sharpen to get a precise tip. Trust me, your brows will look so feathery and soft that people will wonder if you've done brow lamination.

3. Victoria Beckham Beauty Babyblade Eyebrow Pencil

I'm a lover of Victoria Beckham Beauty; its products never miss. The same goes for this brow pencil. Featuring a slanted, angled nib, you can create precision definition or fill in exactly where you need it for a natural-looking brow. The pigment is creamy enough to glide on without effort, yet it's sturdy enough to hold up and last throughout the day. Many brow pencils feel flimsy, but, in true VB fashion, this feels luxurious in the palm of your hand. You can also use the flatter side of the nib to shape your brows and add architecture to your brows.

4. Merit Beauty Brow 1990

Merit Beauty's ethos is rooted in effortless beauty, so it makes sense that its brow pencil is one of the easiest brow pencils to use, and also the most natural-looking, too. The gel formula is very soft, so it glides on without any effort, and the fine nib allows you to draw delicate brow hairs strand by strand for a feathered finish; the spoolie gently diffuses the pigment for a natural-looking result. The chrome packaging it's housed in makes it a chic addition to your makeup bag as well.

5. Refy Brow Pencil

Refy really put brow products on the map (its Brow Sculpt is basically brow lamination in a bottle), and the brow pencil is a worthy addition to your makeup bag. The pencil has a good creaminess to it, so it's easy to create tiny brow strokes without having to press hard (no dragging here) and it is easy to diffuse with the spoolie brush on the other end to create naturally full brows in seconds.

6. E.l.f Ultra Precise Brow Pencil

You can always rely on E.l.f as an affordable beauty brand for a trusty product that won't make your bank account cry, and this ultra-fine brow pencil is great for sketching brow-like strokes to fill in your brows. The shade range is limited, but if you want to spend under £10 on your brow pencil, this won't disappoint. The formula isn't so creamy that it slides off; instead, it has just the right amount of sturdiness to create precise definition that won't fade by lunchtime.

7. L'Oréal Paris Infallible Faux Brow Tint Pen

Prefer a brow pen over a brow pencil? This forked one draws on ultra-thin strokes, and once dry, it won't budge. Even after swatching it on my hand in the morning, it still remained in place at the end of the day (I had to scrub it off with my cleanser). The two-pronged tips make it quick and easy to fill in brows, but you can also flip the pen to the side if you prefer to work with single strokes. My top tip would be to store the nib facing down to ensure an even flow of pigment when you come to draw on your brows.

8. Clarins Wonder Brow

"As a regular gym goer and swimmer, I can safely say this formula held on for dear life, clinging to my brows and skin no matter how hard I sweated. The nib is slightly chunkier than others, but I don't mind that, as I have very thin brows, which need lots of filling in," says contributor Perdita Nouril.

9. Rimmel Proffessional Eye Brow Pencil

"There is something quite magical about this brow pencil in that the formula is super soft but never looks waxy or fake, and given its price point, it's a real steal. However, its staying power isn't as long as some of the others. For that, I need to follow with extra lashings of brow gel," says Perdita.

10. Brow Aid Master Brow Trio

"If you're not really sure where to start with brows, then I can't recommend this enough, as it takes the guesswork out of your routine. Combining the key steps of shaping, defining and setting, the trio helps create fuller-looking, groomed brows with a natural finish. Whether you prefer a soft, brushed-up look or something more sculpted, it’s a streamlined kit that covers the essentials without cluttering your makeup bag," says Perdita.

How We Tested

As a beauty editor, I've tried hundreds of brow pencils. To find the best micro-fine eyebrow pencils, I wore each of them for several months, testing them for the size of the nib and brow strokes, how well the formula wore throughout the day and the shade range available. I tried a variety of formulas from brown pencils to brow pens to find the very finest brow pencils that deliver natural-looking results. I also reached out to fellow beauty editor Perdita Nouril to get her opinion, as her needs are different to mine in that coverage is a priority.

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 some 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.

As much as we wish there were one, there truly is no face wash around that can remove makeup and properly cleanse your skin in one. Believe us—we Who What Wear editors have tried them all. Some products claim to do both, but they often leave a greasy residue that requires an additional water-and-soap cleanse. Even when we do diligently double-cleanse, it’s not always enough to release the death grip waterproof mascara, eyeliner, and liquid eye shadow have on our eyes. That's when we reach for effective eye makeup removers.

Though it’s easy to stroll into your local drugstore and pick up the first thing on the shelf, it’s important to consult a dermatologist first (or listen to our contributing derm, Dendy Engelman, MD, FACMS, FAAD). “I recommend gentle, fragrance-free formulations that remove makeup effectively without requiring a lot of friction,” says the board-certified cosmetic dermatologist. “The skin around the eyes is very thin and delicate, so it is important to remove makeup gently.” She also recommends starting with a cleansing oil, which makes the process of removing stubborn makeup easier.

If you're in the market for a good remover, look no further. We’re sharing the 10 formulas that editors and dermatologists consistently vouch for.

The Best Eye Makeup Removers, at a Glance

• Best Overall: Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover
• Best Budget: Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover
• Best for Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Micellar Water
• Best Drugstore: Bioderma Sensibio H2O Soothing Micellar Cleansing Water
• Best Makeup Remover Pads: Sofie Pavitt Micellar Cleansing Pads

Best Overall: Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover

Best Budget: Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover

Best for Sensitive Skin: La Roche-Posay Micellar Water

Best Drugstore: Bioderma Sensibio H2O Soothing Micellar Cleansing Water

Best Makeup Remover Pads: Sofie Pavitt Micellar Cleansing Pads

Best for Lash Extensions: Lashify Melt Away Remover

Best Balm: Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm

Best Wipes: Neutrogena Makeup Remover Cleansing Towelettes

Best Hydrating: Elizabeth Arden Ceramide Replenishing Cleansing Oil

Best Organic: Éminence Organic Skin Care Herbal Eye Makeup Remover

What to Look For in Eye Makeup Removers

• Skin type: The right eye makeup remover is largely dependent on your skin type. If you have dry skin, you'll likely want to stick to an oil formula, balm, or dual-phase water-and-oil formula like Lancôme’s to help remove makeup. If you have sensitive eyes or wear contacts, a gentle remover with micellar water may work best for you. Those who are prone to breakouts might want to stick to a simple micellar formula or oil-free remover, though they won’t be as tough on waterproof formulas.
• Makeup use: Another thing to consider is the amount and kind of makeup that you wear. If you’re a lover of waterproof formulas (or live in a hot climate or consistently perform an act, like swimming or sweating, that requires it), you’ll want something with a bit more power to effectively remove eye makeup. We like the Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover for a liquid option that does the job and doesn’t break the bank. If you wear less cosmetics on a day-to-day basis (and gentler formulas), reach for a micellar water like Bioderma’s Sensibio H2O.

How do dermatologists recommend taking off eye makeup?

“The skin around the eyes is very thin and delicate, so it is important to remove makeup gently," says Engelman. "I recommend pressing a cotton pad soaked with remover over the closed eye for about 10 to 15 seconds to help break down mascara and liner before softly wiping it away," she adds. "This allows the product to dissolve the makeup so you don’t need to pull at the skin." The dermatologist also recommends starting out with a cleansing oil (the first step in a double-cleanse routine) to better dissolve waterproof and stubborn formulas and save that thin, sensitive skin the elbow grease.

What is the best eye makeup remover for anyone with blepharitis?

According to Mayo Clinic, blepharitis is a fairly common and harmless bacterial infection of the eyelids, causing red and swollen skin. “For those with blepharitis, eyelid hygiene is essential," says Engelman. "I recommend starting with a warm compress to help loosen buildup along the lash line, followed by gentle cleaning with a soft cotton pad and a mild remover. People with blepharitis can still wear makeup, but it is best to keep it minimal, avoid waterproof formulas, and replace eye products frequently to reduce bacterial buildup," she instructs. "If the eyelids are inflamed or irritated, it is best to avoid eye makeup until the condition improves.”

How We Chose

We chose the best eye makeup removers of 2026 by testing a handful of ol' reliables and new-to-market formulas alike, updating our past list to a version that better suits our current standards. Several were saved, like the Neutrogena Oil-Free Eye Makeup Remover and Lancôme Bi-Facil Double-Action Eye Makeup Remover, while some reformulations entered the chat (hi, Farmacy Green Clean Makeup Removing Cleansing Balm). A few new editor-loved and derm-recommended products made their ways onto the list as well, including Sofie Pavitt's Micellar Cleansing Pads and La Roche-Posay's Micellar Water. We will continue to update this list as we stumble across more we love.

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Over the years, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

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

Fashion month has officially wrapped. From New York to London, Paris, and Milan, it was a four-week whirlwind of long days, late nights, and hurrying from one show to the next. We were there and reporting on it all—from the A-list attendees to the backstage hubbub and otherworldly collections.

Now, it's time to talk about the biggest beauty moments that came out of it because editors know that fashion month doesn't predict the following fall and winter's biggest beauty trends; it directly dictates them. In fact, fashion month is essentially a crystal ball, delivering spot-on insight into the hair and makeup looks that will soon dominate IG and TikTok. This year? Expect dreamy and dramatic looks, ranging from rich oxblood-colored lips to romantic windswept hair, blooming pink blush, and stony gray eye shadow. Yep, based on fashion month, we can tell it's going to be a major year for beauty, and we can't wait. Ahead, see the nine major hair and makeup trends we spotted during fashion month.

Oxblood Lips

Sorry, but sheer tints, clear glosses, and other minimalist lip products might be falling by the wayside. (Don't shoot the messenger!) If fashion month taught us anything, it's that the "clean girl" aesthetic is gathering dust, and the stylish crowd is embracing a darker, more dramatic take on makeup. It all starts with lipstick.

Oxblood lipstick reigned on high-fashion runways, including at Elie Saab, Carven, and Saint Laurent, to name a few. The finish doesn't matter—choose a velvety matte one or a high-shine vinyl effect—it all comes down to the color. Oxblood is a rich red with brown and purple undertones (think burgundy or maroon). In low light, it verges on black, resembling the color of dried blood (hence the name). It's moody, mysterious, and bold. And undeniably cool.

Shop the Trend:

Windswept Strands

Blame it on Emerald Fennell's Wuthering Heights, but it seems like designers aren't ready to resist the thralls of the windswept Yorkshire moors… at least not yet. Last year's most popular high-fashion hairstyles (namely the slicked-back bun and wet-look hairstyle) seem to have fallen out of favor for softer, more romantic, and less done 'dos.

Windswept hair was particularly popular on the Italian runways. Giorgio Armani, Fendi, and Missoni all embraced the effortless look, whether it was an undone low ponytail or the internet-favorite "Olsen tuck." The latter refers to keeping hair tucked into a sweater, jacket, or scarf à la Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. Regardless, this is your sign to let your natural texture shine.

Shop the Trend:

Inky Accents

The most experimental, editorial, and, at times, edgy makeup trend to come out of fashion month was what we're coining "inky accents." These were small, yet impactful details that designers like Harris Reed, Toga, Proenza Schouler, and Dries Van Noten incorporated into their shows and presentations. Think a thick pen stroke of onyx eyeliner edging up toward the hairline, smudgy and ink-blotted eyelashes, or a sharp, calligraphy-inspired stroke of black running through the arch of the eyebrow. Unexpected? Yes. Inexplicably chic? Absolutely.

Shop the Trend:

Petal-Pink Blush

Fall and winter are synonymous with deep, bold shades of blush—I'm looking at you, berry! This year, though, the fashion set will be swapping it out for cool-toned pink colors à la TWP, Missoni, Ralph Lauren, Kim Shui, and LoveShackFancy. Whether you opt for a pretty bloom of powder (like at TWP) or a high-impact, metallic one (like at Kim Shui), you'll be right on trend.

Shop the Trend:

Toasted Eye Shadow