We all have very different opinions about what makes the perfect foundation, whether you prefer a sheer skin tint or something high-coverage, or a dewy or matte finish. And for me, as someone with a deeper skin tone, making sure the formula I opt for has a wide shade range is at the top of my criteria for what makes a truly good foundation.

I mean, as a beauty writer, I’ve tested a lot of different formulas, all claiming to have amazing coverage and longevity. However, finding a base product with an extensive shade range that won’t leave me looking ashy has been a challenge over the years. But never fear, as I come bearing good news—2026’s foundation selection has more choices than ever for those of us with dark skin. And whether you have dry or oily skin, are looking for an affordable buy or planning to splurge that bit of extra cash on a luxury formula, I've endured years of testing, swatching, and comparing the most popular foundations so that you don’t have to.

Keep scrolling below; I’ve rounded up the nine best foundations to shop in 2026, all of which come approved by a beauty writer with dark skin.

The Best Foundations for Dark Skin

• Best Overall: Fenty Soft'lit Naturally Luminous Foundation, £35
• Best Luxury: Gucci Éternité De Beauté Spf15 Foundation, £51
• Best Affordable: L'Oréal Paris True Match Liquid Foundation, £12
• Best for Dry Skin: Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Foundation, £54
• Best for Oily Skin: Dior Forever Skin Wear Foundation, £52

The 9 Best Foundations for Dark Skin, According to a Beauty Writer

1. Fenty Beauty Soft'lit Naturally Luminous Longwear Foundation

2. Gucci Éternité De Beauté Spf15 Foundation

3. L'Oréal Paris True Match Liquid Foundation

4. Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow Foundation

4. Dior Forever Skin Wear Foundation

5. Pat McGrath Labs Skin Fetish Sublime Perfection Foundation

6. Clinique Even Better™ Makeup SPF15 Foundation

7. Refy Skin Base Skin Tint

8. ILIA Beauty Skin Rewind Complexion Stick

9. MAC Cosmetics Studio Fix Powder Plus Foundation

Beachy, sun-kissed skin and soft watercolor finishes tend to dominate summer makeup trends, but this year, we're in for something richer—at least if Chappell Roan has anything to say about it. The Grammy-winning singer has just been announced as the new face of MAC's Viva Glam, the brand's charitable campaign that's raised over $545 million since its launch in 1994, with a collection of three, limited-edition products: a deep red lipstick dubbed UnNatural Red Head, inspired by Roan's signature hue; a plum lipstick-balm hybrid named Roan of Arc; and a sheer red-plum shimmery gloss called Damnsel. Along with the charitable collection comes a $300,000 donation to Roan's own nonprofit, the Midwest Princess Project, and its LGBTQ+ partner organizations, as well as a stunning campaign inspired by the French Revolution, starring Roan as the warrior.

"Chappell has used makeup to tell stories in such a brave way from the beginning," Andrew Dahling, Roan's longtime makeup artist, exclusively tells Who What Wear. "Her bold and colorful makeup has inspired so many people to be a little more brave and go deeper within themselves to find their own voice. It’s a form of liberation, really, and that’s why this campaign is so special." It's also quite the milestone for Dahling himself, who previously told us that his first job was at the MAC counter. "MAC and Viva Glam campaigns were a beacon of hope for me when I was growing up. It was like a looking glass, a glimpse into a world of glamour and fantasy that beamed me up and gave me the hope and inspiration I needed to follow my dreams," he shares. "To be able to pass that spirit on is the greatest gift I could ever receive."

The new lip collection was integral for creating Roan's two beauty references: the French Revolution warrior and the 1940s romantic empress. Now, you might be surprised to see such a rich lip color in a summer makeup launch (plum tones typically scream fall/winter), but Roan is no stranger to bold beauty choices. Plus, according to Dahling, a plum pigment on the lips makes an even chicer impact during the warmer months.

"Like a nod to a grunge Courtney Love, [wear a] silky slip dress with messy smoky eyes and a dark lip. Love that for a '4 a.m. at a Waffle House' summer night," he shares. "Or for an evening look, [wear] a beautiful pastel shade on the eyes, or just a subtle shimmer and some mascara, and a beautiful, airy, goddess gown paired with a bold lip. Kind of chic, no?" I have to agree. To hell with seasonal color stories! The coolest beauty looks, IMHO, often subvert expectations. "Summer is a time to play with color, so although plum is rather dark and rich, using pastels and brighter shades in your hair, makeup, and outfit can give a deeper red lip a new life," Dahling adds. Consider this your sign to pair summery lace trim skirts and linen sets with a gothic-romantic lip.

The collection officially drops on June 11, and you really can't go wrong with any of the Chappell-approved items—especially because 100% of the sticker price goes toward charities advancing sexual, gender, racial, and environmental equality. That said, Dahling does recommend pairing the Lustreglass Sheer Shine Lipstick with MAC's Night Moth or Plumlip liner and a bit of gloss on top, or he loves dabbing the MACximal Silky Matte Lipstick in the center of the lips and blending it out for some "sexy, sultry, vampiric romance." "The gloss is also so beautiful on its own paired with a Stone or Chestnut Lip Liner. A subtly tinted, juicy ombré lip would be fab!" he adds. Feel free to add all the essentials you need—plus Roan's full campaign lineup—to your cart just ahead.

Shop the Chappell Roan x MAC Viva Glam Collection

Shop Chappell Roan's Look

My life has felt more or less like that famous “bus, club, another club” Lady Gaga quote since the beginning of 2026. In a few whirlwind months, I traveled from London to Los Angeles, attended the Grammys, and returned home to New York only to be plunged into the thick of New York Fashion Week. Careening between the airport, backstage meetings, runway shows, and my writing desk has become a game of table tennis, and that’s without factoring in personal life.

Now, don’t take this as a complaint—I live a life I once only dreamed of. From a fledgling beauty expert at 16 years old, I dreamt of one day being a fabulous New Yorker who wears the same, effortlessly cool makeup look from morning coffee with her favorite publicists to the office to a perfume brand’s cocktail party to picking up her gown for an upcoming award show and finally meeting a date for a late-night drink. (Well, the award show thing has only happened once. But it’s a good start.) However, my teenage reverie always depicted my skin glowing and calm, my lashes flake-free, and my lips perfectly painted all day long—no smudges or smears in sight. How wrong I was, until recently.

In the midst of a very busy winter, I found myself checking into The Sun Rose West Hollywood to attend the 2026 Grammys. The event not only served as the crown jewel of my year but also became the crash course I desperately needed in long-lasting beauty thanks to professional makeup artist and content creator Krista Keehus. I sat in her chair around 10:30 a.m. with eye bags like bruises and skin irritated by travel, only to present her with another obstacle: I needed her camouflaging glam to last me into the wee hours of the morning.

Below, the breakdown of what it takes to craft long-lasting makeup that perseveres through 15-hour NYFW days, award shows (plus the after-party), and after-work dates—as someone who’s done it all.

Easy 6-Step Guide to No-Budge Makeup

1. Proper Skin Prep

My stay at The Sun Rose (formerly the Pendry West Hollywood) consisted of some work and play—running around to interview celebrities (read all about my IRL chat with Selena Gomez) and lounging at the rooftop pool for a little R&R before the big day. However, the stark weather change from NYC to L.A. played games with my skin, inspiring new flare-ups of rosacea and eczema. It’s because of this that Keehus had to take extra care with my complexion the morning of the Grammys. Though, she swears skin prep is the key to long-lasting makeup regardless.

“The skin is the canvas—if it’s not properly prepped and primed, you won’t get the best payoff or longevity from your products,” she explains. This means proper moisturization and priming beforehand, and the makeup artist cites MAC Cosmetics’ Studio Radiance Primer and “a glowy foundation” as her go-to combo for a flawless, no-budge base. However, if a velvet or matte finish is the end goal, she recommends using MAC’s Mattifine Primer.

The next step is to set everything with a loose powder and a fine layer of setting spray, MAC Fix+ being her personal pick. “That combination gives amazing longevity while still keeping the skin looking like skin—seamless, balanced, and not overly heavy.” For eyes, she swears there’s nothing better than the brand’s Paint Pots (and I can attest to this—I’ve been using them for 10 years).

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2. Layer Strategically

“The key to long-lasting glam is strategic layering,” says celebrity makeup artist Kasey Spickard. The MUA, who creates long-wear looks on Jenna Lyons, Ciara Miller, and more for never-ending event days and press runs, has more than a few tricks up his sleeves when it comes to bulletproof beauty. Both he and Keehus agree that this layering act is about building coverage with thin layers of cream and powder, utilizing waterproof products (and sweatproof!) whenever possible. Keehus says this helps the products look “fused into the skin” instead of sitting on top, which can happen if you use too heavy a hand.

Keehus’s pro tip? Use a setting spray between these layers. The makeup artist prefers to mist MAC’s Fix+ setting spray before, during, and after the complexion routine to ensure maximum wear. “I find that continuously reintroducing light hydration keeps the skin balanced and prevents texture or caking,” she explains. “It also helps stop product from clinging to dry areas, which makes a big difference in how the makeup wears throughout the day.”

Pro Tip: Blush is usually the first makeup to fade, but Spickard trusts his “blush sandwich” layering technique for all-day wear. Start with a layer of cream blush, then swirl on a bit of powder blush before stippling a final layer of cream blush for a skin-like glow. “The powder acts as an adhesive to lock that blush in and make sure that it lasts all day [and night],” he explains.

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3. Let It Dry

I know it’s tempting to blend your concealer the second it hits your under-eyes, but listen to the pros, and put the brush down. “Letting the concealer dry down was one of my aha moments for long-wearing makeup,” says Spickard. The MUA recommends letting the formula sit on your skin for at least a minute before blending it out with a dense concealer brush or damp beauty sponge in a tapping motion, not a sweeping one. “That tapping motion is going to give you the most coverage,” he explains.

Spickard says that in waiting for the concealer to set before blending, the fixing agents in the formula will begin to settle, thus depositing controlled coverage. “You’ll actually need less powder to lock it in,” he adds. The makeup artist calls the immediate follow-up with powder over concealer “one of the biggest mistakes” people consistently make. “It creates an almost gummy texture, and that’s when you start to see more cakiness,” he elaborates. In short, put the brush down!

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4. Set Your Face

Though we’ve been taking the proper measures to “cocktail” our skin with setting spray in between layers, the pros would be remiss to leave setting powder out of the conversation. Keehus says that loose setting powder is an essential step, but one to use strategically. “I used to think more setting meant longer wear, but I learned that applying a very light amount of loose powder—only in areas that tend to crease—makes such a difference,” she explained. On me, the makeup artist concentrated it under the eyes. “It keeps the skin looking fresh instead of dry or heavy,” she adds.

Spickard personally recommends the Givenchy Prisme Libre and the Huda Beauty Easy Bake formulas for sealing cream formulas. Though he says the setting spray dance continues for extended wear. After letting the powder sit for a moment, he follows with a “wet” setting spray—Urban Decay’s All Nighter being his choice. Once that layer dries, he tops everything off with an aerosol setting spray for extra protection, specifically highlighting the One Size On ’Til Dawn and L’Oréal Paris Infallible 3-Second setting mists. “When you layer these products correctly, the makeup really grips onto the skin and stays locked in place for hours.”

Pro Tip: To preserve your contour and highlight, invest in both brightening and deep loose powders to layer over your cream products. “This keeps the tone balanced without losing the intensity or sculpting you’ve already created. [Plus] it helps lock everything in,” Spickard explains. Loose powder can also be used to blend eye shadow, too. “If I’m creating a sultry, smoky eye, I’ll take a small duo-fiber brush with a touch of translucent powder and lightly dust it over the eye,” says Keehus. “It softly sets everything without dulling the dimension, and it really helps the blend look seamless.”

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5. Seal the Look

Perhaps the most advanced step of this process is this (practically) final one. Professional makeup artists everywhere call Inglot’s Duraline a staple in their kits, but we mere mortals are only experimenting with this look-preserving product now. “It’s a mixing medium that can be blended into liners or gel liners, and I also like layering it over pencil liners on the lips and eyes,” says Spickard. “It helps waterproof the product, locks everything in place, and makes sure it doesn’t budge.” Another alternative is Make Up For Ever’s Aqua Seal, which turns powders into long-lasting, waterproof pigments.

Pro Tip: Duraline and Aqua Seal are especially great for eyes prone to creasing, like anyone with oily lids or hooded eyes. Simply swipe the product over your eyeliner or mix it into the formula (if gel) to get the long-lasting look you desire.

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6. Prepare for Touch-Ups

Makeup is, by nature, a temporary enhancer. To really prolong the lifespan of your look, you’ll need to keep a few things on hand for quick touch-ups. Spickard and Keehus both recommend storing a small kit in your bag for any necessary fixes (which won’t be many after proper prep).

Lips are the first to wear away, so Spickard recommends keeping a Make Up For Ever Artist Color Pencil Extreme Smudge-Proof Lip Liner on hand. “The formula is extremely waterproof and long-lasting, which reduces the need for a full lip liner retouch,” he explains. But for extra insurance (or any events where eating and drinking are involved), Spickard suggests swapping a pencil lip liner for the Sacheu Peel Off Lip Liner stain altogether. “It helps maintain color and reduces the need to constantly reapply your lips,” he adds. Of course, we can’t forget lip balm, and Keehus remains loyal to good ol' Aquaphor.

The next to erode is usually skin. I keep a small book of blotting papers in my purse to remove excess oil, as it complicates subsequent touch-ups, and spot-correct my complexion with powder products. “When I give my clients a small to-go touch-up kit, I like to include a mini powder puff that already has loose setting powder on it,” says Spickard. “I tell them to gently press that into the center of the face, the T-zone, and the under-eye area to refresh the complexion and control shine without disturbing the makeup.” While thin layers of powder won’t make the look cakey, layering cream over your powder-set makeup will. “It’s much better to refresh with powder and focus on lips and brows rather than adding more complexion products,” Spickard adds.

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The colorful braids, patterned hair scarves, kitchen-safe clogs, and crisp white shirts Ayo Edebiri wears as Sydney Adamu in FX's award-winning dramedy series The Bear have helped me trace the career of the fictional chef, but on the red carpets of award shows and movie premieres, I've gotten to know the actress's signature style. Her memorable appearances with perfectly coiffed, high-volume bobs; glossy brown lips; and flushed cheeks have inspired my own beauty journey as a woman with a similarly deep complexion.

After seeing her most recent Old Hollywood–inspired look at the 83rd annual Golden Globes, I decided it was time to take a deep dive into her best beauty looks and ID the exact products and talents behind their creations. Below, I'm sharing every beauty moment from Edebiri that has caught my eye over the last couple of years, plus all the juicy details behind them, from their inspiration to the jaw-dropping outfits they were designed to complement.

Blooming Blush

Time and Place: Attending the Met Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, May 2024

For her appearance at the 2024 Met Gala celebrating the Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion exhibit, Edebiri wore a floor-length Loewe dress featuring 3D floral details with a white top half that transformed into a vibrant, pastel-hued garden toward the bottom. To echo the ethereal look, makeup artist Dana Delaney created a fresh, dewy look with radiant, glowy skin using pastel pops on the lips, cheeks, and lids. She used Ilia's Skin Rewind Complexion Stick and Soft Focus Finishing Powder for a natural-looking, blurred complexion. The soft petal motif in the dress was brought to life with the brand's Multi-Sick in Dreamer for a vivid pink flush and the Balmy Lip Gloss Tinted Oil in Maybe Violet.

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Sun-Kissed Shimmer

Time and Place: Attending the world premiere of Inside Out 2 at El Capitan Theatre, June 2024

When Edebiri walked the red carpet for the world premiere of Inside Out 2, she channeled the character she voiced—Envy—with a custom mint Bottega Veneta suit. The preppy look combined a grain de poudre leather blazer and matching capri-length shorts with an aquamarine button-down silk shirt, and open-toed Cha-Cha Mules. Her makeup artist, Ernesto Casillas, shared that the glowy, sun-kissed look was created with MAC's Macximal Viva Glam Silky Matte Lipstick in Viva Equality, Pro Brow Definer Brow Pencil in Onyx, and Studio Fix Fluid SPF 15 24HR Matte Foundation. The warm tones in this makeup look worked beautifully with her electric-blue suit.

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Disco Details

Time and Place: Attending the fourth annual Academy Museum Gala at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, October 2024

Disco-inspired beauty is making a comeback this year, but Edebiri was already tapping into the trend when she posed for cameras on the red carpet of the fourth annual Academy Museum Gala in 2024. The actress channeled Donna Summer with fluffed-out curls by hairstylist Naeemah Lafond and wore a custom tiered Thom Browne F/W 24 couture gown and delicate gold sandals styled by Danielle Goldberg. Casillas created a soft-glam makeup look for the evening, which included angelic silvery-white eye shadow, peachy-pink blush, glossy brown lips, and flirty, long lashes. Put simply, the makeup was the perfect match for her playful personality.

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Auburn Glow

Time and Place: Attending the Chanel S/S 26 womenswear show during Paris Fashion Week, October 2025

So far in this edit, we've seen Edebiri in shades of pink and brown, but the warm auburn look she wore to attend the Chanel S/S 26 womenswear show during Paris Fashion Week last fall lives rent-free in my mind. Her deep skin tone was complemented by the toasted-brown bob, and the hairstyle created a stunning frame for a makeup look that combined red-orange hues without washing her out. The look by global makeup artist Bernicia Boateng effortlessly blended a neutral smoky eye with dewy skin that reflected the brand's minimalist collection. Fittingly, Edebiri has been announced as one of Chanel's newest ambassadors.

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Fine Lines

Time and Place: Attending the Met Gala at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, May 2025

Edebiri was one of the faces I was most excited to see on the star-studded red carpet of last year's Met Gala celebrating the Superfine: Tailoring Black Style exhibit. From the moment she stepped in front of the cameras, I fell completely in love with her tailored look. Her wool-silk shirtdress, designed by Maximilian Davis for Ferragamo, honored dandy style and her Nigerian heritage with coral beading, Cartier accessories, and a leather tailcoat. Her hair was pulled into a sleek braided bun with kiss curls, and her makeup look by Dee Carrion included a blurred, luminous complexion using Dior's Forever Skin Perfect Stick Foundation. It also featured outlined lips with sheer gloss, warm ombré eye shadow, skinny brows, and sleek eyeliner.

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Hollywood Glamour

Time and Place: Attending the After the Hunt premiere during the 82nd annual Venice Film Festival in Venice, Italy, August 2025

Soft glam always seems to make an appearance at the Venice Film Festival, but Edebiri's take on the look for her first time in attendance stood out with an Old Hollywood twist. Another brilliant result of the partnership between Edebiri and Casillas, this iconic beauty moment embraced the glamour of the golden age of filmmaking with an ultra-glowy base, a berry-toned flush on the cheeks, and timeless winged liner. The makeup look allows her soft, side-swept curls and strapless, floor-length gown with crystal-encrusted buttons (another stunning red carpet look styled by Goldberg) to shine.

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Chocolate Tones

Time and Place: Attending the After the Hunt Headline Gala at the 69th annual BFI London Film Festival at the Royal Festival Hall, October 2025

Edebiri was officially in her Chanel ambassador era while attending the After the Hunt Headline Gala at the 69th annual BFI London Film Festival, and her look this time around came with a stylish surprise: chocolate-brown baby bangs and an elegant updo by Jacob Aaron. She wore a flowing white gown from the heritage fashion house's S/S 26 collection featuring an elegant gathered-hip detail, cowl-neck, and sneaky shoulder tie that paired perfectly with a bronzed base, smoldering smoky eye, and bold brows by Casillas.

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Frosted Mod

Time and Place: Attending the fifth annual Academy Museum Gala at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, October 2025

Just days later, Edebiri made another appearance with her darling baby bangs at the fifth annual Academy Museum Gala wearing her hair pulled up into a mod-inspired updo with face-framing strands. The colorful '60s trend has also been making its rounds in makeup, and Casillas embraced it in this makeup look with a luminous base and smoky brown eye makeup with a pop of frosty green added to the inner corners. Her lips, glossy and mauve, added the perfect amount of warmth to her icy Chanel outfit with delicate beading and tassel touches.

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Berry Burst

Time and Place: Attending the 83rd annual Golden Globes at the Beverly Hilton, January 2026

Edebiri's most recent beauty look I've become obsessed with happened at the 2026 Golden Globes, where she wore a striking black gown from Chanel's Métiers d'art collection. The deep plum and mauve shades incorporated into this makeup look, also by Casillas, nod toward Old Hollywood with a modern touch. He used the brand's signature eye shadow quad in Tissé Rivoli to create a glowy and lightly smoky eye look and added a muted-red flush to the cheeks and warm nude lip. Edebiri gained a third nomination for her work in FX's The Bear to add to her list of accolades.

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MAC has a long, storied history in the beauty industry. Ever since the Canadian-born company launched in 1985 as Make-Up Art Cosmetics, it’s been a favorite of beauty lovers. By the time the ’90s rolled around, MAC’s popularity would reach new heights. The brand would become the go-to for professional makeup artists, making magic both on-screen and on the red carpet. You couldn’t open a beauty magazine without seeing a mention of the brand. If you were watching a movie or TV show, there’s a good chance the actor was wearing some sort of MAC product. It was everywhere. Some of our favorite stars even wore MAC lipsticks off-duty. 

Teens in the ’90s all knew that the MAC counter in the mall was the hottest destination. They were innovating the beauty industry year after year. In 1994, MAC made history when it launched the very first Viva Glam campaign, featuring then-rising drag star RuPaul. MAC even created a custom lipstick shade for one of the world’s biggest pop stars of the time to use on her tour. MAC continues to be a makeup mainstay in pop culture. After all, it was only last year when MAC sold out of its Nightmoth lip liner after it was revealed to be used on Jenna Ortega in Wednesday!

If you’re feeling inspired to time-travel back to the ’90s and re-create iconic lip looks from some of the era’s biggest stars, keep reading to find out which products to add to your cart. Sadly, some were discontinued, but a lot of them are still available (like the brick-red lipstick Jennifer Aniston wore in Friends).

I will always look back on 2023 as the year I was finally won over by Dior's best-selling Lip Glow Oil, discovered a newfound adoration for the full-coverage and glowy combo offered by Armani's Luminous Silk Perfect Glow Flawless Foundation, and was converted into a Jo Malone fragrance enthusiast. So what's in store for me in the New Year? I like to think that it'll be spent in pursuit of a "that girl" beauty collection filled with only the highest-performing products that I can trust to carry me through 2024 without fail.

With that energy in mind, I reached out to one of my favorite retailers for a better idea of which beauty products are worth having. As a Seattle native, Nordstrom has always been my go-to for all things beauty. It's the place where I purchased my first eau de parfum and experienced a full-face beat at the hands of Anastasia Beverly Hills' makeup counter. With their help, I've ID'd the top skincare, hair, makeup, and fragrance finds that have been absolutely flying off the shelves recently. I'll be using this as my Nordstrom beauty shopping guide going forward, so don't be surprised if I try to snag all of these for myself.

Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Perfect Glow Flawless Foundation

MAC Lip Pencil

Dior Lip Glow Oil

Nars Afterglow Sensual Shine Lipstick

Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Eyeshadow Stick

Sunday Riley Good Genes All-in-One Lactic Acid Treatment

Estée Lauder Advanced Night Repair Synchronized Multi-Recovery Complex

Jo Malone Wood Sage & Sea Salt Cologne

Viktor&Rolf Flowerbomb Eau de Parfum

Dyson Airwrap Multi-Styler Complete Long

According to TikTok, "for the girls, by the girls," is one of the best ways filmmaker Sofia Coppola’s aesthetic can be described and I whole-heartedly agree. Her most recent biographical drama, Priscilla is not different Based on the 1965 memoir Elvis and Me by Priscilla Presley and Sandra Harmon, the film follows the life of Presley (portrayed by newcomer Cailee Spaeny) and her relationship with Elvis Presley (played by Euphoria star Jacob Elordi). Told from 1959 to 1972, the story captures to evolution of Priscilla Presley’s (né Beaulieu) journey from love-lorn school girl to style icon with the help of sky-high hair, plush lashes, and eye-catching winged eyeliner.

In that same vane, A24 teamed up with Half Magic, the makeup brand from Euphoria’s head makeup artist Donni Davy to create a limited edition Priscilla Makeup Set with special tools to help us recreate the latter. I tapped Davy for her biggest tips and tricks on how to recreate the iconic ’60s and ’70s makeup looks that helped secure Presley’s status as a 20th century style icon. Cleary, her legacy is as influential then as it is now. If you’re feeling inspired to try your hand at Presley’s bold and beautiful eye makeup, read on!

Capturing the Priscilla Look

Cut creases and winged eyeliner are staples for a number of Priscilla Presley’s most recognizable eye makeup looks. Do you have any tips and tricks on how to re-create them?

While I generally associate cut creases with the 1960s, it’s not the first thing that comes to mind when I think of Priscilla’s makeup based on the photos I’ve seen of her. What really stands out to me about her 1960s look is the bold way she wore her eyeliner. She did double wings, inverted wings on her inner corners, and straight up outlined her whole eye in black eyeliner. She wore a generous amount of black eye shadow and liner at Elvis’s request, which actually made for a pretty intense eye look rather than the typical wide-eyed babydoll 1960s look with the big cut crease.

To do a cut crease is to create a new crease line for your eyelid. All you need is black or brown eyeliner in whichever format you are the most comfortable working with pencil, cream, liquid, or my favorite, a felt tip pen like Half Magic’s award-winning Magic Flik Calligraphy Eyeliner Pen, which is included in our Limited Edition Priscilla Makeup Set. You’re going to draw a curved line above your natural crease line.

The degree of curvature that you choose is based on personal preference. The outer tail of Priscilla’s cut crease line extends toward the tail of her eyebrow, which gives a lifted, seductive, and feline effect. Now look at Twiggy. The outer tail of her cut crease line extends toward the outer corner of her eye, which gives her more of a wide-eyed baby doll, demure look. So, it’s all about the vibe you want to channel and what you want your makeup to say!

What are some of the biggest mistakes you see with modern-day takes on 1960s makeup looks? 

I don’t see any mistakes. I live for modern takes on 1960s glam and I slurp it up every time I see it. 

In what ways do you believe Priscilla’s marriage to Elvis had an influence on her style?

If what I saw in the movie really happened, Elvis groomed Priscilla from a young age to be his ideal woman. He influenced Priscilla’s style in every way possible—from deciding that her signature color was to be blue to deciding that she would avoid wearing prints and anything not formfitting, and even suggesting that she dye her hair black and wear more makeup to "bring out her eyes.”

Priscilla stayed devoted to Elvis even though he was at times cruel to her, pursued relationships with other women, and didn’t respect her needs within their marriage. Coppola’s film depicts Priscilla transforming from plain to hyper-glam to fit in with Elvis’s lifestyle and hold his ongoing attention. In the film, when she develops the strength to leave her marriage, Priscilla transitions back to her natural hair color and is shown wearing much less eye makeup. 

All of the different ways she wore her eyeliner makes me think she really added her own flair, experimentation and sense of ownership to her look, even if it initially stemmed from Elvis’s desire for how she should look. 

Do you have any personal favorite makeup looks from Priscilla over the years? 

I love the double wing with inner-wing detail and the light-pink lipstick that she wore for her wedding with Elvis. The double-wing profile is so stunning—fierce but delicate.

Half Magic x Priscilla

If you missed Half Magic’s limited-edition, best-selling Priscilla Makeup Set by a few days (it practically flew off the shelves following the release of the hit film), you’re in luck—all three of its items can be purchased separately. If your goal is to pull of a bold wing, try using Half Magic’s Magic Flik Eyeliner with the help of the Wing Magician Silicone Guide. Finish off your eye look by sweeping Half Magic’s Eyelectric Extreme Lengthening Mascara across the lashes; focusing on building volume. While you may not have the ridiculously aesthetic packaging of the original set in your possession, but you’ll have everything you need.

More Products for Priscilla-Inspired Looks

Of all the makeup products out there, brown eyeliner has got to be the most underrated. It’s simple, easy to use, suits everyone, and can really pull a look together, adding subtle definition when you don’t have time (or the desire) for a bold eye look.

For years, it’s been a staple in my routine. I subscribe to the no-makeup makeup look, so my everyday makeup is very natural and includes only a skin tint, a few dabs of cream blush, and a clear brow gel. Adding black eyeliner into the mix can sometimes look too harsh, so I’ll opt for brown eyeliner over black if I want to add a little definition to my eye area. I find it helps to enhance my eyes without it looking super obvious that I’m wearing eye makeup.

I’m not the only one who’s a fan. Google searches for "brown eyeliner" have steadily increased over the past year, no doubt because the effect feeds into the "clean girl" look made popular by beauty content creators on TikTok and Instagram. Brown eyeliner has also long been a secret weapon for professional makeup artists. "I love using brown liner for a really low-key sculpted look, creating shadows that define the eyes really subtly,” says celebrity makeup artist Emily Clarkson. "I also love building it up to a really beautiful smoky eye, then layering shadows on top so it’s really long-lasting. It’s definitely one of the most versatile products out there.”

From Victoria Beckham’s (often sold-out) Satin Kajal Eyeliner to Beauty Pie’s affordable Kohl Eyeliner, there are plenty of options to choose from, in shades ranging from light to dark brown and in everything from pencil and crayon to kohl and liquid formulas. With the help of Clarkson, I’ve tried, tested, and pulled together an edit of the best brown eyeliner options for everyone, so you’re sure to find a staple for your makeup bag.

The 10 Best Brown Eyeliners, at a Glance

• Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Eyeliner in Cocoa
• Jones Road The Best Pencil in Brown
• Nyx Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner in Brown
• Beauty Pie Supercolour Kohl Eyeliner in Brown Beauty
• MAC Cosmetics Eye Kohl in Costa Riche

The 10 Best Brown Eyeliners of 2025

1. Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Eyeliner in Cocoa

2. Jones Road The Best Pencil in Brown

3. Nyx Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner in Brown

4. Beauty Pie Supercolour Kohl Eyeliner in Brown Beauty

5. MAC Cosmetics Eye Kohl in Costa Riche

6. Yves Saint Laurent Crushliner Waterproof Eye Crayon in 2

7. Wet n Wild's Color Icon Kohl Liner Pencil in Simma Brown Now!

8. Makeup by Mario Master Pigment Pro Pencil in Perfect Brown

9. Ilia Beauty Clean Line Gel Eyeliner in Dusk

10. Wet n Wild Waterproof Mega Last Breakup Proof Retractable Gel Eyeliner in Brick Brown

How to Apply Brown Eyeliner

Much like black, brown eyeliner can be applied in several different ways. I love using a brown pencil or crayon for tight-lining my eyes. I angle the pencil upward and apply it right into my lash line, which helps to add subtle definition and creates the illusion of fuller lashes without it looking like I have any eyeliner on. If you’ve previously found black eyeliner overpowering, tight-lining with a brown liner has a totally different result that you’ll probably find more flattering.

"The great thing about brown eyeliner is that you don’t have to be too neat, and if you want a smoky, smudgy look, you can just use a pencil brush to blend,” says Clarkson. She also recommends tight lining to start with, but for a bolder look, she suggests dragging the brown liner into a wing while keeping your eyes open to add some extra shape. "If you feel like it adds too much product, instead of applying directly with the pencil, put a generous amount onto the back of your hand and use a small angled brush to apply along the lash line, building it up to your perfect amount.”

Of course, brown eyeliners also come in felt-tip pen applicators, which can be used for a more traditional thick line or cat-eye wing. Although this does require a steady hand (and cotton buds to clean up any mistakes!), any error in the shape will be much less noticeable than a black eyeliner would be. Plus, the overall effect will be subtler.

Who Does Brown Eyeliner Suit?

"Brown liners bring a lot of warmth, which is really flattering to the colors of our eyes,” says Clarkson. Much like wearing brown eye shadow, brown eyeliner can enhance the color of your eyes, and even if your eyes are brown themselves, it can bring out any flecks of gold or green in them. No matter your skin tone, Clarkson also recommends trying brown eyeliner if you’re nervous about eyeliner application since it’s much more forgiving than black eyeliner, which needs to be applied very precisely. "Brown eyeliner is just so versatile and perfect for those who are less confident in their makeup ability,” she adds. "If you slip up, then you can literally smudge it with your fingers and add some bronzer on top, and it’ll still look great!”

Is Brown Eyeliner Better Than Black Eyeliner?

Brown eyeliner can work for everyone! If you are experimenting with a bold eye makeup look, want a classic feline flick, or are creating a smoky eye look, then a black eyeliner will probably create more impact and will stand out more against any eye shadow you’re wearing. However, if you’re after a subtler, everyday look, a brown eyeliner will look much softer (especially if you have mature eyes). Clarkson says that she always opts for a brown over a black if her client wants a softer and more youthful look. "A black eyeliner can make the eye area look too heavy and, depending on where you place the product, can actually make your eyes appear smaller,” she adds.

Deciding on if brown or black eyeliner works better for your desired look can also be dependent on your skin tone. For deeper skin tones, some brown shades may not be visible. In this case, consider option for a brown eyeliner with red or yellow undertones to catch the eye.

Why Trust Who What Wear

Since 2006, Who What Wear has been a digital fashion, beauty, and lifestyle publication and community where people can discover the latest brands, trends, and must-have products to help define and evolve their personal style. Think of Who What Wear as your most trusted style and shopping resource.

This post originally appeared on Who What Wear UK. This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Back when I worked at a beauty counter, my most frequently requested product recommendation was probably for the best tinted moisturiser for mature skin types.

Most people, upon experiencing the changes that come with skin ageing—skin laxity, fine lines and hyperpigmentation—sought something lighter than natural-looking foundation and wanted a product with skincare benefits, but didn't want to compromise when it came to coverage.

What Does a Tinted Moisturiser Do?

Tinted moisturisers are essentially skincare/makeup hybrids. The best tinted moisturisers for mature skin even the complexion and contain the concealing properties of a foundation, minus the heavy texture and propensity for creasing, caking and settling into fine lines and pores. They also feature various associated benefits from moisturisers too; depending on the product or formula, this may involve plumping, refining or hydrating the skin. They give similar lightweight coverage to that of a skin tint or foundation drops.

Is Tinted Moisturiser Better for Mature Skin Than Foundation?

If you're on the hunt for a base product for mature skin that's lighter and more breathable, then a tinted moisturiser may be the better alternative to a foundation for mature skin.

"For me, the most important thing is that tinted moisturisers add radiance," explains celebrity makeup artist, Neil Young. "As we mature, the skin lacks natural radiance, and it tends to be drier, so anything you can do to add that back into the complexion is always beneficial," he adds.

Indeed, the best tinted moisturisers will essentially act like skincare products, infusing your barrier with hydrating ingredients that help your complexion to appear healthy and radiant. "This is exactly why I'm such a fan of tinted moisturisers—they effectively pack in a load of skincare ingredients almost like a serum," says Young.

"The wonderful thing about tinted moisturisers is they’re more of a stained-glass skin effect, so you can see the skin through the product, and what that will do is allow you to go a little bit deeper in tone than you would with a foundation, and it will still look completely natural."

What's more, tinted moisturisers are so easy to apply—you don't even need a makeup brush because your fingertips will suffice as the formula is much lighter to work with. They're perfect for everyday wear, can be layered up if you do want or need a bit more coverage, and many of them may also come with the benefits of added sunscreen (although we always recommend applying a separate SPF for adequate protection).

With this in mind, we've selected the best tinted moisturisers for mature skin—hydrated and glowing complexions await.

Best Tinted Moisturisers for Mature Skin

• Best Overall Tinted Moisturiser For Mature Skin: Chanel Les Beiges Eau De Teint Water-Fresh Tint, £56
• Best Skincare-Infused Tinted Moisturiser For Mature Skin: Dr. Jart+ Premium Beauty Balm, £33
• Best Affordable Tinted Moisturiser For Mature Skin: L'Oréal Paris Paradise Lumi Glotion, £12
• Best Lightweight Tinted Moisturiser For Mature Skin: Summer Fridays Sheer Skin Tint, £42

1. Chanel Les Beiges Eau De Teint Water Fresh Tint

2. L'Oréal Paris Paradise Lumi Glotion

3. Dr. Jart+ Premium Beauty Balm

4. Glossier Perfecting Skin Tint

5. Summer Fridays Sheer Skin Tint

6. BareMinerals Complexion Rescue

7. Chantecaille Just Skin Tinted Moisturizer

8. Rare Beauty Positive Light Tinted Moisturiser

9. MAC Strobe Dewy Skin Tinted Moisturiser

10. Nars Pure Radiant Tinted Moisturiser

11. Laura Mercier Tinted Moisturiser Natural Skin Perfector

12. No7 City Light Tinted Moisturiser 5* UVA + SPF 15

13. Jones Road Just Enough Tinted Moisturiser

How to Apply Tinted Moisturisers for Mature Skin

Those with mature skin will often notice a slight loss in the skin's elasticity, leading to their complexion appearing more sagged compared to when they were younger. (Don't worry, a great skin-tightening cream can always help firm and steady!)

In saying that, it's always best to be gentle and extra nourishing with mature skin. "I've always felt that warming product up on the back of my hand or on my palm is the best way to get that lived-in consistency," explains Gilchrist. This is a similar technique you can follow when applying tinted moisturisers for mature skin. Simply follow this up by dabbing the product in with your finger or taking a tool like a Beautyblender to stipple it in further.

Shop Tools to Apply Tinted Moisturisers to Mature Skin:

How We Tested

Our editors have tried hundreds of tinted moisturisers, but we've also called upon the expertise of a top makeup artist to find the best tinted moisturisers for mature skin. We put every one to the test over several weeks, evaluating the formula, the shade range and its suitability to mature skin.

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.

There are two kinds of people in this world: people who fully lean into Valentine's Day by sporting all things red and heart-shaped and people who avoid the holiday at all costs. It depends on the year, but most of the time, I fall somewhere in the middle, swooning over the colorful nail designs, oversize teddy bears, and festive candy selection.

This year, I'm fulling leaning into Valentine's Day so I have an excuse to experiment with fun makeup looks, and MAC always comes through for me when I'm testing new products. The brand just launched Locked Kiss Ink 24-Hr Lipcolour ($33), its first-ever 24-hour lip formula. I hate having to whip out a compact mirror to reapply my lip combo, so this formula is a true game changer. Locked Kiss Ink is a proven kiss-proof, waterproof, and transfer-proof liquid lipstick that's available in 16 luscious shades, so the only problem I'm facing is which color to wear on Valentine's Day. Naturally, I decided to enlist my fellow editors for their expert opinions. They went above and beyond and shared collages of the makeup looks they're considering for February 14, and it's safe to say I'm smitten. If you want to see the looks we created, keep scrolling.

"When it comes to my makeup, I usually stick to natural looks. (My sunscreen, concealer, and blush trio gets put to work on the daily.) However, I feel like Valentine's Day is the perfect time to switch it up in the name of romance. This V-Day, I'm turning to a sultry cat eye and berry lips thanks to the new Locked Kiss Ink in the shade Most Curious. Kiss-proof, waterproof, and transfer-proof? I already know my husband will thank me."

"As much as I'd love to be more playful with makeup, I tend to stick to my trusted lineup: a pop of pink blush, a little glow, a swipe of mascara, and a nude-pink lip always have me feeling my most confident. However, this Valentine's Day, I'm opting for Bodacious, a deeper shade of the Locked Kiss Ink, as a way to dress up for the occasion while staying true to my natural look. Even though it's a transfer-proof formula, my lips stay hydrated and plump thanks to the nutrient-packed passionfruit and coconut oils it's formulated with. It's exactly the kind of kissable lip I'm going for this year."

"I finally feel confident enough in my makeup abilities to wear a bold red lip without going full glam. This is a major step for me, but what better time to take a risk than on Valentine's Day? I wanted the focal point of this look to be my cherry-red lips and matching blush, so I opted for light coverage with a concealer as my base and fluffy brows to complete the look. With the Locked Kiss Ink in Extra Chili as the last (and most important) step in my routine, I can walk into any event knowing that I won't be reapplying my lipstick or staining any clothing or cheeks."

"I have a soft spot for Valentine's Day only because it's my birthday (and I love an excuse to lean into the whole pink thing). But this year, the Locked Kiss Ink in Upgraded has me yearning for makeup that's more purple-pink than baby pink, and honestly, I'm here for it. I love the idea of centering my look around a pink lip, pairing it with a similarly colored eye shadow, and topping it all off with something shimmery. It just feels right for the occasion."

"For Valentine's Day, I'm going for a soft, romantic makeup look: defined eyes, glowing skin, and flushed cheeks are a must. I'm channeling the cold-girl makeup trend here in frigid NYC, but the lips are arguably the most important feature to highlight for V-Day. I'm reaching for Decadence, this deep rosy shade of the new Locked Kiss Ink. The luxurious, weightless formula is kiss-proof and transfer-proof, so I'm ready to pucker up!"

It used to be that skincare was a trend unto itself, but in a few years, skincare has become the fastest-growing category in beauty, spawning micro-trends and innovations that bridge the gaps between skincare and wellness, makeup, and technology. No longer is your skincare routine just a daily necessity; instead it’s an opportunity to indulge in self-care, absorb information, and explore innovation.

Even if you consider yourself resistant to trends and prefer to stick to what you know, it’s hard to ignore the hype of products that achieve TikTok virality or to bypass wider cultural shifts that influence everything from the ingredients in your skincare products to the packaging they’re made from. Indeed, all you have to do is take one look at your friends’ bathroom shelves or your Instagram feed and it’s clear just how much of a moment skincare is having, and every year we see a whole new crop of categories, products, and ingredients rise up.

While trends such as slugging, "baby Botox,” and skincare dupes have all been big talking points in over the last year, we’re predicting even more change and innovation in 2023. To find out more, we’ve tapped trend forecasters, dermatologists, aestheticians, and brand founders to share their thoughts on the skincare trends for 2023 that are set to be big news in the next year.

1. “Notox” Tweakments

Trend forecasters WGSN recently released their key skincare trends for 2023. Their findings? Tweakments are on the rise. We’re talking noninvasive treatments such as LED facials and skin rejuvenations, as well as "notox” products and devices that help you to replicate the effects of a cosmetic procedure without the cost, pain, and downtime.

"For years, Botox has been our go-to procedure for youthful skin, whereas now we have more options available to us,” says Kristy Lau, medical director at Yuchi Medical. "‘Notox’ tweakments are trending as technology develops, and we have more options than ever before, from medical-grade and personalised skincare serums to radio-frequency skin-tightening treatments.” For those who want to avoid needles or pain, Lau recommends Evoke by InMode, a noninvasive treatment that has the ability to alter the structure of facial tissues, targeting areas of loose skin such as the cheeks and jowls. "It’s a great alternative to Botox and dermal filler, truly unlike anything else on the market right now,” she adds.

The desire for needle-free and affordable alternatives to cosmetic procedures are also driving innovation in new product development, and according to WGSN, products that have instant results have greatest appeal. From plumping creams and skin-lifting devices to de-puffing eye treatments, expect to see a wave of product launches that use innovative technologies and ingredients to give tweakment-like results.

Shop the trend:

2. Multitasking Products

As we head towards the end of 2022 and into 2023, more and more people are seeking ways to make their skincare routine more affordable but without reducing its efficacy. "Understandably, people are conscious of what they are spending, and I think we are going to continue to see people looking for products that can offer a number of skin benefits and be used in more way than one,” says skincare expert and aesthetician Katie Onyejekwe. "Beyond the obvious point of it saving you money, it streamlines your routine, and it reduces both confusion on what to apply and the potential to irritate the skin by using too many products all at the same time." 

From two-in-one formulas and multitasking hybrids to increased education on how to use your products in alternative ways, we’re anticipating a less is more approach to skincare in 2023.

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3. Bodycare as Skincare

The bodycare category has been booming since the pandemic, but now it’s evolving beyond a "skincare-as-selfcare” mindset and into something much more functional and targeted. Traditionally, the preserve of "medical” over-the-counter brands, previously taboo concerns such as body acne, keratosis pilaris (chicken skin), dermatitis, and pubic care will be tackled head on and given the same treatment that facial skincare concerns have been getting for years. 

"I think the interesting thing with this movement is that it's been completely bottom-up,” says culture and trends analyst Alex Bee. "Built on the foundation of 'body positivity,’ which has now, quite rightly, morphed into body acceptance, consumers themselves have been demanding that brands start to talk openly about the stuff they actually care about.” Bee predicts an increase in products catering to concerns such as bacne, bloating, oral healthcare, and razor bumps. "Almost every project I've worked on this year has an element of these previously 'taboo' topics,” she adds. "I would actually say that this is less of a trend and more of a macro behavioural shift, meaning that it's not going away any time soon.”

Melissa Kenny, senior communications lead at Zitsticka (a brand oriented towards destigmatising taboo skincare concerns) agrees. "Bacne, gut health, and period skin are for sure discussed publicly online with greater transparency than they once were,” she says. "The connectedness and community fostered in online spaces has bred more and more ‘oversharing.’ People want to learn from their peers and give and get advice.” Of course, people have always had these concerns, but the openness with which they’re now discussed has given brands the opportunity to hone in on each individual one, meaning that there’s set to be a lot of innovation in the bodycare space going beyond the basics of exfoliation and moisturising.

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4. Skincare-Makeup Hybrids

TikTok’s "clean girl” look isn’t going anywhere, and while on the outside it may seem like this is a makeup trend, it’s actually far more tied up in skincare. "With huge changes in routines like working from home, people want a lower maintenance look,” explains Bee. "Something that is always popular in searches is ‘glowy' because people always want their skin to look and feel healthy, and I think that's where this trend is rooted.”

The look is all about appearing fresh, glowy, and (seemingly) bare-faced, and while this may involve some clever concealing, it ultimately requires a lot of focus on skincare. Aside from skin-brightening products like acid-based exfoliants, gel moisturisers, and vitamin C serums, people are reaching for skincare-makeup hybrids, products that function like makeup but have skincare benefits. That’s right, we’re about to see a lot more tinted sunscreens, nourishing lip oils, and vitamin-boosted makeup primers, products, which essentially blur the lines between the skincare and makeup categories. The result? A fresh-faced, even-toned makeup look that also allows you to reap the benefits of what is basically an extended skincare routine.

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5. Active Aging

Ageing is a privilege, and it’s also inevitable, which makes the term anti-ageing somewhat redundant. Try as we may, no number of serums and treatments can permanently postpone the inevitable signs of ageing skin, and the term anti-ageing only serves to make us feel guilty about that fact. We’ve already noticed brands starting to take a more positive approach to things like acne, but 2023 is set to be the year that the mature skin category gets a revamp.

Last month, the Institute for Anti-Ageing (IIAA) rebranded as the Institute for Active Ageing, a move that highlighted the need for a more positive approach to skin concerns associated with age, like fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and loose skin. "Women in particular are feeling more empowered as they age, and they don’t want to be told that this is a bad process,” says the IIAA's co-founder and managing director David Alpert. "At the IIAA we’ve always embraced ageing in a very positive sense, but there’s no such thing as ageing gracefully, so one has to intervene to reverse the biomarkers of ageing by taking an active role.”

But don’t worry, this doesn’t mean your favourite wrinkle-targeting products and ingredients are going anywhere, just expect brands to take a slightly different approach to push back against ageist beauty standards.

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6. Sensitive-Skin Skincare

Triggered by stress, anxiety, and the over-use of active ingredients like exfoliating acids, sensitive skin is on the rise, and as a result, products for sensitive skin are on the rise too. "Many people experimented with DIY skincare during the pandemic, so between choosing the wrong products for their skin, introducing too many products at once, and using DIY skincare, it’s unsurprising that there is now a huge trend for skincare for sensitive skin,” says Heather Wish, education specialist at Paula’s Choice. "In addition, two other factors that can bring sensitivity to skin are stress and pollution, so with the rise of all of these factors, it’s no wonder people are looking towards skincare made for sensitive skin.”

We’ve all been there—a few too many products layered or an overenthusiastic exfoliation session leaves us with skin that’s sore, itchy, and inflamed. But what’s the solution? According to Wish, the most important thing you can do for sensitive skin is to be gentle, so while sensitivity is occurring, you’ll need to cut back on active ingredients and focus on soothing, hydrating ones instead. "Well-known ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and omega fatty acids continue to play an important role,” says Wish. But she predicts a new wave of innovation in products for sensitive skin. "Ingredients like mushrooms, prebiotics, seaweed, prickly pear, gentle vitamin C derivatives and peptides can be used for those with sensitive skin to get soothing comfort and skincare benefits at the same time,” she adds.

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7. 360-Degree Skincare

Brands aren’t just focussed on topically treating the skin these days, and in 2023, we’re set to see even more of our favourite skincare brands step into the supplement space. Products applied to our skin can only do so much, so oral supplements created specifically with skincare benefits in mind allow us to take a 360-degree approach to skincare by supplying skin with beneficial vitamins and nutrients from within.

This trend really feeds into a wider less-is-more movement within beauty. "We can only layer so many products on our skin without it freaking out, but we can easily take powders or capsules,” says Hannah English, scientist and author of Your Best Skin. "A lot of people also just love skincare and want to do everything they can for optimal skin health, and some find it easier to ingest their skincare than apply it.” 

When it comes to shopping for skincare supplements however, it’s a whole new ball game. "There’s less burden of proof for a supplement than for a medicine, so keep your expectations realistic,” advises English. "For example, supplementing collagen can improve skin’s hydration and elasticity in women, but you need to use one that’s high-quality with the lowest possible molecular weight of collagen.” She also recommends always looking for clinical trial data on the finished product.

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8. Science-Backed Skincare

As consumers become increasingly interested in the science of skin health, a science-first approach to skincare is taking over, which many, including English, see as a welcome backlash to the "clean beauty” movement. "People are so much more informed now,” says English. "We know that pure vitamin C is better than a fruit extract ‘rich in vitamin C.’ We know that natural does not mean better. We want more than misplaced fear from our favourite brands.” 

Marko Lens, founder of skincare brand Zelens, agrees. "People have an increasing amount of knowledge of their skin type, products, and ingredients. They are seeking efficacious and clinically proven products to add to their skincare routine,” he says. "The research and knowledge behind science-based and doctor-founded brands gives customers the reassurance that they are using targeted and results driven products.”

There’s also increasing awareness of the fact that drawing upon natural resources to create skincare products is not sustainable and is not efficient to supply chains, which WGSN predicts will mean a new wave of science-led skincare brands creating products using engineered natural ingredients. Basically, as we enter 2023, expect to see buzzwords like biotech, lab-grown, and doctor-founded thrown around a lot in relation to skincare products and ingredients.

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9. Hypochlorous Acid

There’s always one ingredient that comes to define each year, and this year we’re calling it that hypochlorous acid is about to become a lot more mainstream. "The ingredient isn't exactly new, it's become extremely buzzy as of late,” says dermatologist Sonia Khorana. "It basically disinfects your face. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it a great treatment for a variety of skin challenges, so it’s used for common skin problems like acne, eczema, and psoriasis and pretty much anyone and everyone can benefit from in some way, shape, or form.”

Since it feeds into the trends for sensitive skin and science-backed skincare, it makes sense that hypochlorous acid will become a staple ingredient in your routine before too long.

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10. Short Contact Therapy

We’ve already raved about the benefits of short contact therapy, and we’re calling it that the derm-approved application technique will be all over your TikTok feed in 2023. In short, it’s a sensitive-skin-friendly technique that allows you to see the benefits from active ingredients like retinoids and exfoliating acids, without the irritation.

Rather than leaving products containing these ingredients on your skin for too long, you apply them for just a couple of minutes and then rinse them off. "It’s great for things like retinoids or benzoyl peroxide,” says facialist and skin expert Charlie Perry. "And it helps improve the tolerability of a product where normally the skin needs time to adjust.”

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Up Next: 7 Skincare Application Mistakes You're Probably Making and How to Avoid Them

This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Of all the best makeup products out there, brown eyeliner has got to be the most underrated. It’s simple, easy to use, suits everyone and can really pull a look together, adding subtle definition when you don’t have time (or the desire) for a bold eye look.

For years, it’s been a staple in my routine. I’m a subscriber to the ‘no makeup-makeup’ look, so my everyday makeup is very natural—a skin tint, a few dabs of cream blusher, and a clear brow gel. Adding black eyeliner into the mix can sometimes look too harsh, so if I do want to add a little definition to my eye area, then I’ll always opt for a brown eyeliner over a black one. Much how a brown mascara is softer than black, I find it helps to enhance my eyes without it looking super obvious that I’m wearing eye makeup. And I have plenty of recommendations for the best brown eyeliners out there.

I’m not the only one who’s a fan. Google searches for ‘brown eyeliner’ have steadily increased over the past year, no doubt because the effect feeds into the "clean girl" look made popular by beauty content creators on TikTok and Instagram. Brown eyeliner has also long been a secret weapon for professional makeup artists. "I love using brown liner for a really low-key sculpted look, creating shadows that define the eyes really subtly”, says celebrity makeup artist Emily Clarkson. "I also love building it up to a really beautiful smoky eye, then layering shadows on top so it’s really long-lasting. It’s definitely one of the most versatile products out there.”

From Victoria Beckham’s Satin Kajal Eyeliner to Beauty Pie’s affordable Kohl Eyeliner, there are plenty of options to choose from, in shades ranging from light to dark brown, and in everything from pencil and crayon to kohl and liquid formulas. With the help of Clarkson, I’ve tried, tested, and pulled together an edit of the very best brown eyeliner options for everyone, so you’re sure to find a staple for your makeup bag. Plus, Clarkson shares her expert tips on how to get the most out of your brown eyeliner.

Best Brown Eyeliners, Tried & Tested

1. Best Overall: Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Eyeliner in Cocoa (£33)
2. Best Shimmer Brown Liner: Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Eyeliner in Cinnamon (£33)
3. Best For Smudging: Jones Road The Best Pencil in Brown (£22)
4. Best For Sensitive Eyes: Charlotte Tilbury Rock 'n' Kohl in Barbarella Brown (£25)
5. Best Affordable Liquid Eyeliner: NYX Epic Ink Liner in Milk Chocolate (£10)
6. Best Eyeliner Pencil With Smudger: Beauty Pie Supercolour Kohl Eyeliner in Brown Beauty (£13)
7. Best Suits-Everyone Brown Eyeliner Pencil: MAC Cosmetics Eye Kohl Pencil in Costa Riche (£20)
8. Best Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil: Yves Saint Laurent Crushliner Waterproof Eye Crayon in Brun Universel (£25)
9. Best Eyeliner Pencil For Smoky Eyes: Makeup By Mario Master Pigment Pro Pencil in Perfect Brown (£26)
10. Best Retractable Eyeliner Pencil: Ilia Clean Line Gel Eyeliner in Dusk (£28)
11. Best Luxury Eye Pencil: Lisa Eldridge Seamless Glide Eye Pencil in Ground Coffee (£24)
12. Best Gel Eyeliner Pencil: Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes Gel Eyeliner in True Brown (£19)
13. Best For Easy Application: Kosas Soulgazer Intensifying Gel Eyeliner in Depth (£20)

1. Best Overall: Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Eyeliner in Cocoa

2. Best Brown Shimmer: Victoria Beckham Beauty Satin Kajal Liner in Cinnamon

3. Best For Smudging: Jones Road The Best Pencil in Brown

4. Best For Sensitive Eyes: Charlotte Tilbury Rock 'n' Kohl in Barbarella Brown

5. Best Affordable Eyeliner: NYX Professional Makeup Epic Ink Liner in Brown

6. Best Eyeliner Pencil With Smudger: Beauty Pie Supercolour Kohl Eyeliner in Brown Beauty

7. Best Suits-Everyone Brown Eyeliner Pencil: MAC Cosmetics Eye Kohl in Costa Riche

8. Best Waterproof Eyeliner Pencil: Yves Saint Laurent Crushliner Waterproof Eye Crayon in 2 Brun Universel

9. Best Eyeliner For Smoky Eyes: Makeup by Mario Master Pigment Pro Pencil in Perfect Brown

10. Best Retractable Eyeliner Pencil: Ilia Clean Line Gel Eyeliner in Dusk

11. Best Luxury Eye Pencil: Lisa Eldridge Seamless Glide Eye Pencil In Ground Coffee

12. Best Gel Eyeliner Pencil: Rare Beauty Perfect Strokes Gel Eyeliner in True Brown

13. Best For Easy Application: Kosas Soulgazer Intensifying Gel Eyeliner in Depth

How Do You Apply Brown Eyeliner?

Much like black, brown eyeliner can be applied in a number of different ways. I personally love using a brown pencil or crayon for tight-lining my eyes. I angle the pencil upwards and apply it right into my lash line which helps to add subtle definition and creates the illusion of fuller lashes without it looking like I have any eyeliner on. If you’ve previously found black eyeliner over-powering, but tight-lining with a brown liner has a totally different result which you’ll probably find more flattering.

"The great thing about brown eyeliner is that you don’t have to be too neat, and if you want a smoky, smudgy look, you can just use a pencil brush to blend,” says Clarkson. She also recommends tight-lining to start with, but for a bolder look, she suggests dragging the brown liner into a wing whilst keeping your eyes open to add some extra shape. "If you feel like this, it adds too much product. Instead of applying directly with the pencil, put a generous amount onto the back of your hand and use a small angled brush to apply along the lash line, building it up to your perfect amount.”

Of course, brown eyeliners also come in felt tip pen applicators, which can be used for a more traditional thick line or cat-eye wing. Although this does require a steady hand (and cotton buds to clean up any mistakes!), any error in the shape will be much less noticeable than a black eyeliner would be. Plus, the overall effect will be more subtle.

Who Suits Brown Eyeliner?

"Brown liners bring a lot of warmth which is really flattering to the colours of our eyes,” says Clarkson. It’s true, much like wearing brown eyeshadow, a brown eyeliner can serve to enhance the colour of your eyes, and even if your eyes are brown themselves, it can really bring out any flecks of gold or green in them. No matter what your skin tone, Clarkson also recommends trying a brown eyeliner if you’re nervous about eyeliner application, since it’s much more forgiving than black eyeliner, which needs to be applied very precisely. "Brown eyeliner is just so versatile and perfect for those who are less confident in their makeup ability,” she adds. "If you slip up then you can literally smudge it with your fingers and add some bronzer on top and it’ll still look great!”

Is Brown Eyeliner Better Than Black Eyeliner?

If you are experimenting with a bold eye makeup look, want a classic feline flick, or are creating a smoky eye look, then a black eyeliner will probably create more impact and will stand out more against any eyeshadow you’re wearing. However, if you’re after a more subtle, everyday look, a brown eyeliner will look much softer.

Clarkson says that she always opts for a brown over a black if her client wants a softer and more youthful look. "A black eyeliner can make the eye area look too heavy and, depending on where you place the product, can actually make your eyes appear smaller,” she adds.

How We Tested

Between the Who What Wear UK editors, we tried and tested a lot of brown eyeliners. We tested them on different eye colours, skin tones and even on the most sensitive of eyes to find the best brown eyeliners that work for everyone. We've been wearing them daily to see how well they apply and how long they lasted throughout the day. We also tried an array of formulas, from gel eyeliners to classic pencils and liquid eyeliners, so you can find the best one for you.

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.

This story was previously published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Chances are if you've been wearing makeup for a while, you might have owned (or currently own) a MAC lipstick or two (or more). Wearing one is kind of like a rite of passage; they're that iconic. They come in so many shades—from nudes and pinks to vibrant reds and neon hues—and different finishes, too, like matte, satin, and high shine. Seriously, there's a MAC lipstick for everyone, guaranteed.

We all have our own favorites—whether you've been a Ruby Woo stan for years or swear by Velvet Teddy. A lot of people seem to have very strong opinions about their tried-and-true lipsticks. So in that spirit, I asked my colleagues for their MAC lipstick recs. See what they had to say below. Plus, to make it easier for you to discover and shop, I've broken it down by the best lipsticks for each skin tone (but feel free to wear any of these, really).

For Deep and Dark Skin Tones

For Tan and Medium Skin Tones

For Olive Skin Tones

For Fair and Light Skin Tones

Goaaaaal! Or should we say Emmmmmy? Either way, actress Hannah Waddingham scored big last night at the 73rd annual Emmy Awards when she took home the trophy—the first in her career—for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series for her role as Rebecca Welton on the Apple TV+ hit show Ted Lasso.

Waddingham looked absolutely radiant in a custom coral Christian Siriano gown paired with Anabela Chan jewelry and Gianvito Rossi shoes. Styled by Cristina Ehrlich, this modern goddess vibe was only enhanced by Waddingham's inner glow. So while a custom Siriano gown may not be in the near future for the average Ted Lasso fan, Waddingham's makeup artist, Stephen Sollitto, let us in on a little secret: her QMS Medicosmetics skincare routine (which Sollitto used on the star in the days leading up to the event) is delightfully accessible, even for mere mortals.

Keep reading to get the play-by-play from Sollitto on Waddingham's skincare-and-beauty look. There's no shame in trying it out at home, even if it's just for your next Zoom meeting.

Up Next: These Emmys Red Carpet Beauty Looks Were So Good We're Still Recovering

• REVIEWS
• October 6, 2021

Curious About Contouring Your Body With Makeup? Here's a Crash Course

by Marianne Mychaskiw

Table of Contents

1. Makeup Artist Bruce Dean Shares His Fool-Proof Contouring Methods 
2. What Products to Use (And Where)
3. How to Apply From Head to Toe

While contouring the face area might as well be considered a daily ritual at this point, contouring your body with makeup can be tricky territory if you don’t know where to start. That’s why targeting specific areas of the body is key, as is making the contouring look realistic. But there’s another equally important thing to be mindful of: preventing the makeup from rubbing off onto your clothes (or your furniture, etc.).

That’s why we asked editorial makeup artist Bruce Dean to answer all of our body contouring FAQs. Considering that the pro specializes in lingerie and swimwear shoots, his technique is one you’re going to want to follow closely.

Keep reading for the best body contouring pro tips you never knew you needed.

What Are Some of the Best Areas of the Body to Contour With Makeup?

According to Dean, some of the most popular areas of the body to contour are the abs, as well as the decollete and chest. "Other areas of the body can be a little tricky because products could rub off on clothing,” he says. "Avoid the underarm area and the middle of the thighs, as these areas are in direct contact with skin and rub together.”

PHOTO: @WALKINWONDERLAND

Should I Prep My Skin Before I Use Makeup to Contour My Body?

To create a longer-lasting effect, Dean advises wiping your skin down with witch hazel to remove oil from the area. "You can also use a baby wipe to remove excess oil and water from the skin,” he says. "It’s important not to use any kind of lotion before applying body makeup.” You can also opt to use a spray-on self-tanner as a base. "Self-tanner sprayed onto the body is the best as far as being non-transferable, and this way, you can utilize more of a highlighter to highlight the tops of the legs and arms to create a contoured effect,” he explains.

PHOTO: @NINASANDBECH

Are There Any Makeup Formulas Best for Body Contouring? What Should I Have On Hand?

Both powder and cream formulas work equally well depending on your desired effect. Dean likes to use the MAC Mineralize Skinfinish Powder, as well as the Sian Richards 4K Longwear Creme Palette. "Choose the contour and highlight shades that work best for your skin tone to create a natural effect,” he says.

Keep makeup remover wipes on hand (Dean recommends the MAC Makeup Remover Wipes) as well as paper towels in case you need to wipe your hands. "Make sure to clean and wash your hands if you have a sink available after applying the makeup—body contouring with makeup can get a bit messy!” he says. "You can also utilize body brushes, though I’m more of a hands-on person myself.”

I Want to Contour My Abs With Makeup. How Should I Do This?

Start by tightening your abs as much as possible to see your natural definition, and determine where to place the contour and highlight shades. "In the valleys of the muscles, apply a dark color to contour, but do not apply it to the peaks,” Dean says. "You can also look at a photograph of six-pack abs and try to re-create that on your own stomach. It’s a little bit more tricky, but again, if you use a light and a dark shade you can achieve a contoured effect on the abs.” You can choose to use a small brush to apply the product, or your fingers, then blend out until you achieve a natural light and shadow effect.

PHOTO: @PAIGEFRANDSEN

How Should I Go About Contouring My Chest With Makeup?

According to Dean, powder formulas in darker and lighter tones work best for the chest area. "Push one side of your chest upward so you can see where to highlight and contour, then do the same on the other side,” he says. Start first with the contour shade and apply it in a V-shape around your cleavage, then apply the powder above and below your clavicle. Then, apply highlight over the top of your collarbones and onto the area just below where you placed the V-shaped cleavage contour. Finish by blending out both shades to achieve a natural finish.

PHOTO: @SASHA.MEI

Can I Contour My Arms and Legs With Makeup?

You certainly can, but proceed with caution, as arms and legs are both notoriously tricky areas to contour as the makeup has the potential to rub off on your clothes. Set yourself up for success by opting for waterproof formulas in this area, and avoiding areas that make regular contact with your clothing. "​​First, use a dark shade of face and body makeup all over, like Make Up For Ever’s Water Blend Foundation which will be more transfer-resistant,” says Dean. "Then, either a powder highlighter or lighter powder shade on your shins and the tops of your thighs to highlight on the tops of the legs, then follow the same technique on your forearms and on your shoulders.”

How Can I Keep the Makeup From Transferring Onto My Clothes? 

Aside from avoiding areas of skin that come in direct contact with your clothes, Dean recommends spraying a veil of Green Marble setting spray over any areas you used makeup to contour. "The product forms a film barrier over your skin, which is great for sealing makeup,” he says.

And that’s it—you’re contoured from head to toe!

Next: SkinCeuticals' C E Ferulic Serum Is as Life-Changing as Everyone Says

As an Atlanta native, I'm partial to a late-summer peach. (It’s one of the only things I can claim to have in common with Justin Bieber, actually.) And no offense to the fruit itself, but this year, my interest lies mostly in the lip-color form. From juicy, sheer shades to bright mattes, a peach lip is surprisingly versatile and undoubtedly summery—although, the color can absolutely be worn year-round, too.

One thing you may notice as you scroll, however, is that brands have wide-ranging perceptions about what color, exactly, a peach is—a conflict that actually works in our favor. Because some shades veer more on the pink side, others are more coral, and others are a bit more orange, you have your pick of the bushel. So no matter which version of "peach” you’re looking for, it can be found in this roundup of the 17 lip colors worth wearing during peak season and beyond.

1. Nars Lipstick in Orgasm

2. Juvia's Place The Nude Velvety Matte Lipstick in In Vogue

3. Fenty Beauty Slip Shine Sheer Shiny Lipstick in Glazed

4. L'Oréal Paris Colour Riche Shine Lipstick in Shining Peach

5. Bobbi Brown Luxe Matte Lip Color in Just Bitten

6. Burt's Bees Moisturizing Matte Lip Crayon in Niagara Overlook

7. Charlotte Tilbury Hyaluronic Happikiss Lipstick Balm in Enchanting Kiss

8. Gucci Beauty Rouge de Beauté Brillant Lipstick in My Cousin Rachel 

9. Estée Lauder Pure Color Envy Sculpting Lipstick in Eccentric

10. Nyx Professional Makeup Lip Lingerie XXL Smooth Matte Liquid Lipstick in Peach Flirt

11. Merit Shade Slick in Marrakesh

12. Hourglass Confession Ultra Slim High Intensity Lipstick in No One Knows

13. Almay Color & Care Lip Oil-in-Stick in Sweet Escape

14. Clé de Peau Beauté The Lipstick in Peach Stone 

15. Chanel Beauty Rouge Coco Flash Lipstick in Ferveur

16. MAC Cosmetics Satin Lipstick in Peachy New Year

17. Honest Beauty Lush Sheer Lip Crayon in Blossom

Looking for bold lip colors, too? Our editors are freaking out over these bright lipsticks.

Hot take: Matte eye shadow might be one of the most underrated makeup products in your beauty arsenal. Don’t get us wrong—we still love a good shimmer or glitter shadow for a good time, but any makeup artist will tell you that smooth, pigmented matte shades are a prerequisite for looks that rely on bold color and contrast. Plus, it’s nice to change it up every now and then, right?

All that said, if you’ve already collected your fair share of eye palettes, you may have noticed it can be surprisingly tough to find one that’s entirely composed of matte shadows. That’s why we rounded up 12 gorgeous palettes filled with velvety, wearable, and (almost) 100% matte eye shadows so you can create the shine-free eye makeup looks of your dreams. Whether you’re looking for smoky hues, fun brights, or everyday neutrals, your new favorite is in the mix—read on.

1. Victoria Beckham Beauty Smoky Eye Brick in Royal

2. Maybelline New York The City Mini Eyeshadow Palette Makeup in Matte About Town

3. Athr Beauty Joshua Tree Desert Matte Palette

4. E.l.f. Mad for Matte Eyeshadow Palette

5. Lorac Pro Matte Eye Shadow Palette

6. Tarte Tartelette Amazonian Clay Matte Eyeshadow Palette

7. Makeup by Mario Master Mattes Eyeshadow Palette

8. Nyx Professional Makeup Ultimate Shadow Palette in Brights

9. Urban Decay Naked2 Basics Eyeshadow Palette

10. Tom Ford Eye Color Quad Eyeshadow Palette in Mink Mirage

11. MAC Cosmetics Times Nine Eyeshadow Palette in Semi-Sweet

12. Charlotte Tilbury Luxury Eyeshadow Palette in The Sophisticate

13. Viseart Eyeshadow Palette in Cool Mattes 2

Up next: These Are the Only Eyeliners That Won't Budge When You Sweat This Summer

As a beauty editor, I've had the opportunity to interview a number of truly talented makeup artists. Some of them have even done my makeup, for which I feel fortunate (acting as a canvas for some of the best in the biz is a major perk of the job). Throughout all of these interviews and interactions, there's only one thing that has remained constant: a MAC Cosmetics product was either mentioned in passing, recommended to me outright, or used on my own skin. No surprise there, considering MAC is a brand that's been beloved by makeup artists since 1984.

The love for MAC is strong among beauty editors, too. I know multiple who have faithfully used MAC products for years. Whether it be a crinkled tube of Lip Glass ($19) or a stubby bullet of Ruby Woo ($19), the brand's products litter many a desk, vanity, and makeup bag...including my own.

Sure, I have my tried-and-true favorites, but somewhere in the midst of my MAC Cosmetics musings, I started to wonder which products other people swear by (I'm always in search of new recommendations). So, I reached out to artists and editors to find out. Keep scrolling to see 18 truly iconic MAC products, according to industry experts. 

Kirbie Johnson, Host of Gloss Angeles

Hannah Baxter, Deputy Beauty Editor, The Zoe Report

Anton Khachaturian, Celebrity Makeup Artist

Gregory Arlt, Director of Makeup Artistry MAC Cosmetics

Fatime Thomas, Senior National Artist for North America, MAC Cosmetics

Romero Jennings, Global Director of Makeup Artistry, MAC Cosmetics

Erin Jahns, Senior Beauty Editor, Who What Wear

Kaitlyn McLintock, Freelance Beauty Editor

Next, grown-up body shimmers are a thing, and we'll be using these 15 all summer. 

In the world of beauty, nothing has stood the test of time quite like red lipstick. While our penchant for foundation finishes shifts between matte and dewy, and our preferred eye makeup alternates between natural, fluffy lashes, and bold, statement shadows, one thing that just about every beauty aficionado can agree on is that red lips will never date. That, and the fact there's one brand, in particular, that does them particularly well: MAC.

To say MAC has a monopoly on the lipstick scene would be a serious understatement. Last year, more than 60 million MAC lipsticks were sold globally. That's two lipsticks per second. Impressive, right? What's even more incredible is that the top-selling MAC lipsticks in 2019 were Devoted to Chili, Chili, and Ruby Woo—all shades of red. So yes, it seems makeup lovers all around the world are pretty obsessed with their MAC red lipsticks.

Here in the UK, Ruby Woo is the second best-selling MAC lipstick, coming in just behind the universally-adored neutral Velvet Teddy (£18), but it's safe to say that popularity of MAC red lipsticks still outweighs all the other colours in its vast offering. 

But what is it that makes MAC red lipsticks so special? "Red lipstick has been a staple cosmetic item in most people's makeup drawer since the mid-19th century and there's no denying why, and the impact that a red lipstick can make to its wearer both visually and internally," explains Lesley Keane, global senior artist of MAC Cosmetics.

"Firstly, it's a comparatively inexpensive way to add an instant boost in confidence, mood, and attitude in an application; whether it's wanting to feel sexy or professional while looking fashionably on-trend in a classic timeless way. MAC red lipsticks come in a range of tones that suit any skin tone, and they can universally be worn by all ages, sexes, races, and genders, bringing its magical mood-boosting powers to all." 

The fact that it has inclusive appeal is certainly one of the reasons why MAC red lipsticks are held in such high esteem. "Red comes in a range of various tones that can be worn as a stain to full impact or glossy to matte finish depending on the wearer's taste, but there are also guidelines you can follow to get the perfect tone for your skin," reveals Keane. "There is what we call a universal red that has an equal amount of warm orange, or blue-red to create a shade that suits most skins, like MAC's iconic Ruby Woo or Russian Red lipsticks. It's down to personal taste but, classically, it is said that warm orange-reds look particularly incredible on an olive sallow skin tone (I'd recommend Lady Danger). Cherry reds always look gorgeous on pale skin (I love Feels So Grand). For deeper skin tones, I always think a darker cherry shade (something along the lines of Dubonnet) looks incredible. This, however, is just a guide and really, there are no rules—anyone can wear whatever shade they please, as long as it makes them feel confident."

MAC red lipsticks are so iconic that they've even garnered quite the celebrity following. Madonna wore Lady Danger religiously on her lips during her infamous Blonde Ambition tour in 1990. Miley Cyrus is also said to be a fan of this vibrant shade. As for Ruby Woo, you can count Taylor Swift and Rita Ora as regular wearers of this suits-all shade of red. 

Born in 1999, Ruby Woo was part of a line called Retro Matte Lipsticks, along with five other shades. While the others have since been discontinued, Ruby Woo, however, has become an instant success. Today, seven tubes of MAC Ruby Woo are sold every minute. This is second only to Chili, a rich, orangey-red, which is reported to be MAC's worldwide best-selling lipstick.

If you don't already have a collection of MAC red lipsticks your disposal, we think now is an excellent time to start amassing your collection. Keep scrolling to see some of the best-selling MAC red lipsticks we've talked about while discovering some of our additional favourites. 

RUBY WOO

LADY DANGER

DEVOTED TO CHILLI

FEELS SO GRAND

RUSSIAN RED

AMPLIFIED

CHILI

RESORT SEASON

Next up, this cult lipstick has been a best-seller since 1971.

I don’t know about you, but since being quarantined at home, my screen time (read: Instagram time) has increased dramatically. I’m not proud of it, but there’s only so much I can do to keep myself entertained right now. All I can say is, I’m thankful to all the people I Insta-stalk for using this time to create content that’s equal parts amusing and inspiring to watch. Such is the case with one of my favorite stylish French girls: Sabina Socol. In a recent IGTV, Socol shared her go-to makeup routine for creating the ultimate '90s-inspired beauty look. It’s simple, pretty, and about as much as my brain can handle right now. I have a feeling I’m not alone in this sentiment, so I’m rounding up all the steps here for you to give it a go because you really have no excuse not to.

Step 1: Apply concealer with a small brush.

First things first: Use a small brush to apply concealer underneath your eyes and on various dark spots. "You don’t want a huge triangle of concealer. You only want to use a little bit to conceal any darkness,” explains Socol. Start at the inner corner of your eye and work your way over to the opposite side, blending as needed. Take it down a bit around your nose and around any other dark spots, if needed.

Step 2: Use a light-coverage tint over your face and neck.

Put some of the product on the back of your hand and use a foundation brush to apply it evenly over your face. "Always remember to bring it down to your neck,” says Socol.

Step 3: Set your base in place.

"Don’t forget that '90s makeup is very matte,” says Socol, who likes to set everything in place with a pressed powder. Using a puff, apply the powder over your face, specifically where you applied concealer or any areas where you have extra shine. For inner corners, use a small brush instead.

Step 4: Add some bronzer.

If you're using a palette with multiple shades, use the lightest color to apply on your cheeks, blending your way up. Next, go down along your jawline to create some added definition, extending the color down to your neck. Switch to a small concealer brush and add some color to the inner corner of your eye, working your way down the sides of your nose. Blend it in using your finger.

Step 5: Do your brows.

Using a brow pencil, fill in any sparse areas with light, feathery strokes in an upward motion. Once your brows are filled in, brush them out with brow gel to keep hairs in place.

Step 6: Tightline your eyes.

"You want the eyeliner to be intense,” explains Socol, who focuses on tightlining. If you’re not familiar with the technique, basically you line your upper waterline to create a fuller, wide-eyed look. Start on one side and lift your eyelid up so you can get the eyeliner pencil right into the lash line of your top lashes. It should almost look invisible. Once you get to the end, you can create a slight wing to enhance the look. Repeat on your other eye.

Step 7: Add some shadow.

Pick a light almost-champagne shadow color and apply it over your entire lid, pressing and tapping in the color with a small brush. Make sure you take the color up over your entire lid to your brow bone. Use the darkest shade from your bronzer palette to blend into the outer corner of your eye and eye crease to really create that nice contoured, '90s effect. Use the same color and apply some to the lower lash line.

Step 8: Curl, coat, and separate lashes.

To really give your look a '90s supermodel vibe, you need to curl your lashes and then coat them with some serious lengthening mascara. Lift your lid up so you can coat every last lash, starting at the roots and working your way up. Once finished, brush lashes to separate them.

Step 9: Highlight, highlight, highlight.

Add some liquid highlighter to your cheekbones and, to really enhance your pictures, down the bridge of your nose and Cupid’s bow, tapping the product in with your fingers to blend.

Step 10: Add some color.

Use a blush brush to apply some color to your cheeks, starting in a circular motion and working your way up to your temples, blending as you go.

Step 11: Line your lips.

The key to nailing a '90s beauty look? Lining those lips! Find a lip liner that’s close to your natural lip color and overline just a bit. You can mix colors if needed but don’t fill in your lips. Instead, use a clear oil. Voilà!

Shop More French-Girl Skin Favorites

As much as we love intricate, over-the-top eye makeup, there’s a lot to be said for something you can achieve in a few short minutes. Even the most accomplished makeup artists have a few quick and easy eye makeup looks at the ready for their clients, and we thought it high time we share some of the tricks of the trade with you. Best of all, you don’t need to be a makeup artist, beauty blogger or even particularly adept with an eye shadow brush to do them at home. (Trust us—they will still end up just as Instagram-worthy.) Thanks to some of our favourite influencers and celebs, there’s no shortage of inspiration to get you started on your journey to eye makeup mastery.

We’ll keep it real: There might be a couple of cat eyes involved. Don’t be scared—they’re easier than they seem and can be transformed into about a zillion different variations. Once you master the technique, you’ll be doing them constantly (promise). That said, there are plenty of other stunning ideas—from subtle shimmer to graphic pops of colour—for the cat-eye averse.

Read on for 13 of the prettiest, easiest eye makeup ideas that can be done in just five minutes or less. Whether your skill set is advanced or you’re looking for a new everyday look or sultry date-night inspiration, you’ll leave here with at least one idea. Plus, we’ve shopped out the must-have products that will help get you started.

Wearing a bold shadow gives the impression that you put effort into your look, even if you, well, didn’t.

Pink Eye Shadow

Lashes are basically camouflage for tired eyes. If you want to wake up with major length, a lash lift or lash extensions are worth the investment (or simply apply a few coats of your favourite mascara).

Lengthening Mascara

More often than not, a ring of rocker-like black liner does the trick, as Lily Aldridge shows here.

Black Eye Kohl

If you can apply eyeliner, you can re-create this simple yet statement-making look.

Green Eye Pencil

Applying this universally flattering colour all around the top and bottom lids give you a day-to-night smoky eye that may be too intense with other, darker shades.

Cream Eye Shadow

Applying two contrasting but complementary colours to the inner and outer corners of your eye couldn’t be easier, but as Halsey demonstrates, the look screams "party.”

Bright Eye Palette

A touch of gloss on your lids catches the light, bringing attention to your eyes with hardly any effort at all.

Eye Gloss

Once you’ve perfected your cat-eye look, you’re ready to graduate to new colours like sleek silver.

Silver Liquid Liner

You don’t have to be Zoë Kravitz to pull off brown shadow—the neutral flatters every skin tone. To complete the look in the easiest way possible, match your eye makeup to your lipstick for a ’90s vibe.

Go-To Browns

Soft green is gorgeous and unexpected if you’re looking to wear colour but don’t want something overly vibrant.

Sheer Green

Applying a pale, shimmery shadow to the inner corners of the eyes gives a wide-awake look in a flash.

Eye Shadow Stick

A layer of metallic shadow adds just the right amount of dressed-up glamour to just about anything—even a terry robe (right, Shay Mitchell?).

Cream Eye Shadow

Next up, if you want to make your beauty routine more sustainable, this is a good start.

As much as we love intricate, over-the-top eye makeup, there’s a lot to be said for something you can achieve in a few short minutes. Even the most accomplished makeup artists have a few quick and easy eye makeup looks at the ready for their clients, and we thought it high time we share some of the tricks of the trade with you. Best of all, you don’t need to be a makeup artist, beauty blogger, or even particularly adept with an eye shadow brush to do them at home. (Trust us—they will still end up just as Instagram-worthy.) Thanks to some of our favorite influencers and celebs, there’s no shortage of inspiration to get you started on your journey to eye makeup mastery.

We’ll keep it real: There might be a couple of cat eyes involved. Don’t be scared—they’re easier than they seem and can be transformed into about a zillion different variations. Once you master the technique, you’ll be doing them constantly (promise). That said, there are plenty of other stunning ideas—from subtle shimmer to graphic pops of color—for the cat-eye averse.

Read on for 13 of the prettiest, easiest eye makeup ideas that can be done in just five minutes or less. Whether your skill set is advanced or you’re looking for a new everyday look or sultry date-night inspiration, you’ll leave here with at least one idea. Plus, we’ve shopped out the must-have products that will help get you started.

Wash of Pink

Wearing a bold shadow gives the impression that you put effort into your look, even if you, well, didn’t.

Pink Eye Shadow

Lashes for Days

Lashes are basically camouflage for tired eyes. If you want to wake up with major length, a lash lift or lash extensions are worth the investment (or simply apply a few coats of your favorite mascara).

Lengthening Mascara

Smudgy Liner

More often than not, a ring of rocker-like black liner does the trick, as Lily Aldridge shows here.

Black Eye Kohl

If you can apply eyeliner, you can re-create this simple yet statement-making look.

Green Eye Pencil

Touch of Tawny 

Applying this universally flattering color all around the top and bottom lids give you a day-to-night smoky eye that may be too intense with other, darker shades.

Cream Eye Shadow

Technicolor Two-Tone Eyes

Applying two contrasting but complementary colors to the inner and outer corners of your eye couldn’t be easier, but as Halsey demonstrates, the look screams "party.”

Bright Eye Palette

Glossy Lids

A touch of gloss on your lids catches the light, bringing attention to your eyes with hardly any effort at all.

Eye Gloss

Classic Cat-Eye Wings

Nothing says "I tried” quite like winged eyeliner‚ even if you skip makeup on the rest of your face altogether.

Flash of Silver

Once you’ve perfected your cat-eye look, you’re ready to graduate to new colors like sleek silver.

Silver Liquid Liner

Monochrome Moment

You don’t have to be Zoë Kravitz to pull off brown shadow—the neutral flatters every skin tone. To complete the look in the easiest way possible, match your eye makeup to your lipstick for a ’90s vibe.

Go-To Browns

Spring-y Shadow

Soft green is gorgeous and unexpected if you’re looking to wear color but don’t want something overly vibrant.

Sheer Green

Strategic Shimmer

Applying a pale, shimmery shadow to the inner corners of the eyes gives a wide-awake look in a flash.

Eye Shadow Stick

Bronze Goddess

A layer of metallic shadow adds just the right amount of dressed-up glamour to just about anything—even a terry robe (right, Shay Mitchell?).

Cream Eye Shadow

Next: 10 Indispensable Tips I’ve Learned Sitting Next to Who What Wear Beauty Editors

This article was published at an earlier date and has been updated.