This summer, blush was all the rage. In fact, blush has been one of the biggest makeup trends of the year, and many of us have been adopting the "more is more" approach. As a keen blush enthusiast and ever-curious beauty editor, I was intrigued to see whether we'd be reaching for the blusher this winter, too. So I reached out to Bernicia Boateng, leading makeup artist and Estée Lauder partner, for her expert opinion.

"I think blush has become such an essential part of everyone's makeup routine that it's no longer just a seasonal trend," Boateng tells me. "We've moved away from blush being something that simply adds a little colour to the cheeks. It's now a way to bring dimension, warmth and personality to the entire face."

Summer was all about vibrant shades, but Boateng says winter will look a little different. "I think we'll see people gravitating towards richer, more romantic tones. Think deep berries, plums, warm terracottas and beautiful rosy browns." Below, Boateng shares the biggest blush trends to try this winter, and after researching them all, I think I've found a new favourite...

6 Biggest Winter 2026 Blush Trends

1. Blush Draping

First up: what Boateng calls "blush draping". "I'm a big fan of using blush to sculpt the face," she tells me. "Rather than concentrating the colour solely on the apples of the cheeks, we'll see more blush swept upwards towards the temples, almost replacing traditional contour. It's such a beautiful way to lift the face whilst keeping everything soft."

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2. Berry-Stained Cheeks

"I think we're going to see a lot of deep berry, wine and plum tones this winter," says Boateng. "There's something so beautiful about that naturally flushed, just-stepped-out-into-the-cold look. These shades are particularly gorgeous on deeper skin tones."

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3. Blurred Blush

One of my favourite winter trends is blurred blush. "Whilst I love a dewy complexion, I think we're going to see a return to beautifully diffused, velvety blush finishes," Boateng explains. "Nothing too harsh or overly pigmented, just a soft wash of colour that looks almost airbrushed. It's timeless and incredibly flattering."

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4. Monochromatic Makeup

"I absolutely love a cohesive makeup look," says Boateng. "Using similar tones across the cheeks, lips and eyes creates such an expensive, polished finish. For winter, I'm thinking beautiful mauves, warm browns and muted rose shades."

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5. The Winter Flush

You know when you've been out in the cold and when you finally come inside, your cheeks have that natural-looking flush? Well, that's what this trend is all about. "[It's] that soft, slightly rosy complexion that makes you look like you've just come in from a winter walk," Boateng adds. "I think we'll see a lot of blush applied across the cheeks and subtly over the bridge of the nose to create that fresh, youthful finish."

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6. "Blonzing"

It might not be summer anymore, but "blonzing" is here to stay. "The combination of blush and bronzer is something I think we'll continue seeing more of," Boateng tells me. "It's perfect for anyone who wants to maintain that warmth and glow throughout the colder months. I particularly love warm terracotta and reddish-brown shades for this."

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We all have our own go-to lip combos. One of my more trend-driven friends always sports a '90s-inspired cocoa nude; my most confident friend loves a bold, fiery red; and my sweetest friend keeps a frosty, pearlescent pink gloss on hand at all times. (Personally, I love a soft, rosy, "my lips but better" look.) Regardless of the shade or finish you're drawn to, the one place I can confidently recommend for elite lip products is Chanel. From cherry-red lipstick to creamy baby-pink gloss to gold-flecked tinted balm, each product is somehow better than the last. And if your friends are lucky (like mine will be this holiday season), these lippies are also one of the most thoughtful and luxurious gifts you can give. Keep scrolling to shop the lipsticks, balms, and glosses I can't stop thinking about, plus some gift sets I'll be giving (and secretly hoping to receive).

Any beauty lover will tell you that good makeup starts with good skin prep. While that's true, this can be extra tricky for people with dry skin. Not only do they need the right skincare products and primers, but they also need makeup that's suited for their skin type. This is especially the case when it comes to foundation. Without the right ingredients, foundation can make dry skin look even drier and bring out any patches, peeling, or rough texture.

“When I’m working with dry skin, I will always look for a foundation that’s going to work with the skin rather than sit on top of it,” says celebrity makeup artist Alexa Persico. “I tend to gravitate toward a hydrating liquid or serum like formulas with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or glycerin and finishes that are natural radiant or dewy.” She adds that matte and full-coverage formulas often emphasize visible dryness, so it’s better to keep it light and build it up as needed.

Considering I have combination skin that tends to run dry in the cooler months, I decided to go straight to the pros to find out which foundations are actually worth the investment. Curious about their top picks? Keep scrolling for all the details.

The Best Foundations for Dry Skin, at a Glance

• Best Overall: Westman Atelier Suprême Bio-Complex Liquid Foundation
• Best for Mature Skin: Chanel Les Beiges
• Best Medium Coverage: NARS Light Reflecting Skin Improving Foundation
• Best Dewy Foundation: Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Natural Glow Blurring Liquid Foundation
• Best Medium-to-High Coverage: Dior Forever Skin Glow Liquid Foundation 24hr Wear

The Best Foundations for Dry Skin in 2026

Best Overall: Westman Atelier Suprême Bio-Complex Liquid Foundation

Best for Mature Skin: Chanel Les Beiges

Best Medium Coverage: NARS Light Reflecting Skin Improving Medium Coverage Foundation

Best Dewy Foundation: Armani Beauty Luminous Silk Natural Glow Blurring Liquid Foundation

Best Medium-to-High Coverage: Dior Forever Skin Glow Liquid Foundation 24hr Wear

Best Shade Range: Haus Labs Triclone Skin Tech Medium Coverage Foundation

Best Splurge: Clé de Peau Beauté Beauté Radiant Fluid Natural Foundation

Best for Fine Lines: La Mer The Soft Fluid Foundation Spf 20

Best Drugstore: L'oréal Paris True Match Lumi Cushion Foundation

How We Chose

As with all of our buying guides at Who What Wear, we compile our edits based on original testing and expert recommendations. To find the best foundations for dry skin, we leaned heavily on first-hand testing and our knowledge as beauty experts. We also considered several factors, including key ingredients, shade range, and customer reviews. We're aware of how important these factors are for a wide range of needs and preferences, so we made sure to list out all the helpful details.

Why Trust Who What Wear

At Who What Wear, we know that beauty isn't one-size-fits-all. Since 2006, our editors have tested thousands of products—including skincare, makeup, haircare, and nails—while also working closely with trusted experts, like renowned dermatologists, celebrity makeup artists, and other leading industry insiders. Together, this ensures every guide is well-researched, inclusive, and relevant to you.

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.

Welcome to Who What Wear UK's Next in Beauty Awards 2026. Here, we are crowning and celebrating the very best in beauty, from game-changing industry innovators to the tried-and-tested classics that remain mainstays in our bathroom cabinets and makeup bags. To help us find the worthy winners, we called upon our esteemed panel of industry experts, hard-to-please editors and in-the-know influencers, who put each and every product to the test. We enlisted our judges to document and share their testing for every product they tried, so you can see all the winners in action—as well as those very important before-and-after results. After much testing, swatching and reviewing, the results are in. Join us in celebrating the best makeup products of 2026.

Who What Wear UK Next in Beauty Awards 2026: Best in Makeup

Best Makeup/Skincare Hybrid Product

If there's one product we love, it's a makeup/skincare hybrid. The very best? By Terry Tea To Tan Golden Glow, a water-based serum that adds instant radiance.

"This product gives a powerful and immediate glow," says Who What Wear UK graphic designer Emily Post. "The result? A long-lasting glow that washes off easily with cleanser. When wearing it, I received multiple comments on how bronzed and glowing my skin looked—what more could you want?"

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Best Concealer

We all know Chanel Beauty creates top-tier products, but this concealer is honestly one of the best launches we've tried all year.

"If, like me, you adore a no-makeup makeup look, then this is the concealer you absolutely must have on your radar," says Who What Wear UK beauty director Shannon Lawlor. "It leaves skin looking healthy and glowing, and delivers just enough lightweight coverage to make you look and feel alive. I never want to be without it."

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Best Base

I know we've spoken a little about base products already, but we have to discuss Sculpted By Aimee's Cream Cushion Foundation. We crowned this our best base product overall, and for good reason.

"A gorgeous product," says fashion and beauty blogger and founder of Byfrow, Victoria Magrath. "It made my skin look really beautiful. It offers gorgeous coverage but with a blurred, glowy finish."

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Best Multi-Use Product

Who doesn't love a multi-use makeup product? It not only makes your makeup routine much quicker, but it also means you don't have to carry a million products in your bag. Our favourite? Byfrow's Pigment Pencil.

"I was initially sceptical about the idea of using a pencil for the lips, eyes and cheeks, but I've been pleasantly surprised," says Who What Wear UK beauty editor Eleanor Vousden. "These pencils are creamy and versatile, allowing you to line the lips, eyes or even add blush, bronzer or freckles depending on the shades. The formulas blend really well, but have impressive staying power, too. I love the idea that you can throw a couple of these in your bag and create a full face of makeup; such a great time- and space-saver."

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Best Skin Tint

No skin tint impressed our judges quite like the Kylie Cosmetics Skin Tint Blurring Elixir Foundation: a lightweight, light-to-medium-coverage, "your skin but better" formula.

"I loved this skin tint. It really impressed me, said Victoria. "It has a gorgeous texture: light, glowy and blurring. Really lovely overall!"

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Best Bronzer

I never thought a bronzer could be so impressive until I discovered Victoria Beckham Beauty's Colour Wash Bronze Water Tint, which imparts a sheer, sun-kissed glow to the skin. It seems our judges were equally blown away.

"Beautifully packaged, a gorgeous product with a beautiful finish. It's really special," says Victoria.

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Best Blush

This year, it seems more is more when it comes to blush, and I'm certainly not complaining. If you're looking for a new one to add to your basket, our judges recommend Wonderskin's Wonder Blading All-Day Blush Stain.

"This product is highly pigmented yet surprisingly blendable," says Who What Wear UK senior shopping editor Marina Avraam. "It melts into the skin before setting to a weightless, radiant stain with genuinely impressive staying power."

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Best Eye Product

We love eyeshadow sticks for their quick and easy application, but it's no secret that they don't always deliver on pigment and staying power. However, Charlotte Tilbury's Exagger-Eyes Easy Eyeshadow Stick ticked all the boxes for our judges.

"This is a nice take on the classic cream eyeshadow stick. The shades are great," says global makeup artist and brand founder Ruby Hammer MBE.

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Best Lash Enhancement

Lash enhancements can be hard to get right, but Eyelure's Fluffy Underlash Pre-Glued Clusters delivered on every single level.

"These certainly take a bit of practice to apply, but once you’ve mastered it, you’re good to go," says Who What Wear UK beauty contributor Perdita Nouril. "Considering they’re worn under your lash line, they’re surprisingly comfortable, but best of all, they look just like your natural lashes."

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Best Eyeliner

When you find an eyeliner you love, you keep hold of it forever. And when Ruby Hammer MBE says she's found an eyeliner she loves, you add it to your basket straight away.

"This is a great eyeliner that does exactly what you expect," Ruby says. "Just a great product. The dry-down is relatively quick, and once it sets, it stays put. I would be happy to have it in both my personal and professional kits."

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Best Mascara

There are so many incredible mascaras out there, but it was Merit's Clean Volume Volumizing Tubing Mascara that really impressed our judges.

"This is a great addition to the Merit brand," says Ruby. "I like the little brush, and I love that [the formula] is tubing. It gave me better results than others [I have] tested."

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Best Palette

If there's one eyeshadow palette we can't get enough of this year, it's Makeup by Mario's Ethereal Eyes Eyeshadow Palette. Filled with 12 wearable shades and a mix of matte, metallic and shimmering finishes, you can create so many showstopping looks.

"A brilliant palette which I would happily recommend to others and have already bought for myself and my kit," says Ruby. "The formulas are fantastic."

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Best Lip Liner

Never underestimate the power of a good lip liner. Especially Sacheu's DoubleDown Lip Definer, a two-in-one liner and balm.

"Why has no one thought of this before?" says entrepreneur and author Sharmadean Reid MBE. "It's so good for someone who wants a less-than-perfect liner look."

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Best Lip-Colour Product

If there's one brand that knows how to make an outstanding lip product, it's Hourglass, and Phantom Blur Balm is no exception.

A hybrid blurring lipstick and nourishing balm, it delivers a silky-smooth, soft-matte finish. "It's a really lovely product that I would happily use," says Ruby.

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Best Brush for Makeup Application

Sometimes, the tools you use are just as important as the products themselves. Our favourite makeup brush? The Domed Buffer Foundation Brush from Caia Cosmetics.

"This brush applies and diffuses your product evenly; it feels soft without loose bristles and picks up the product really well," says Marina. "The shape allows for good blush placement, too."

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Best Finishing Product

When you've spent time creating the perfect makeup look, you want to make sure you're using the best product to set it in place. Our judges couldn't get enough of Dior Beauty's Backstage Airflash Mist.

"I love that this product combines makeup-setting performance and hydration in one very fine, lightweight mist," says Marina.

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Best Brow Product

We couldn't test the best makeup products without talking about brows. Possibly one of the hardest products to get right, our judges were blown away by the Brow Tamer from Shavata Singh.

"This is one of the best brow gels I've tried in a long time," says Eleanor. "The clear gel provides lasting hold that keeps brows in place, but they still feel flexible to the touch without that stiff feeling you get with some brow gels. It's easily layered and doesn't go flaky. I'm really pleased I discovered this product."

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Best Reformulation

It was big news in the beauty industry when Esteé Lauder decided to reformulate its iconic Double Wear foundation. We didn't think it could get any better, but the new formula has proved us wrong.

"A great shade range with full coverage," says Ruby. "It goes on heavily, but can be sheered out. It's great for people who require more depth of coverage."

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Welcome to Who What Wear UK's Next in Beauty Awards 2026. Here, we are crowning and celebrating the very best in beauty, from game-changing industry innovators to the tried-and-tested classics that remain mainstays in our bathroom cabinets and makeup bags. To help us find the worthy winners, we called upon our esteemed panel of industry experts, hard-to-please editors and in-the-know influencers, who put each and every product to the test. We enlisted our judges to document and share their testing for every product they tried, so you can see all the winners in action—as well as those very important before-and-after results.

After much testing, swatching and reviewing, we've handpicked the very best products across our skin, hair, makeup, body and nail and fragrance categories, as well as some other special accolades. These are the crème de la crème from each category that have been awarded our prestigious Best in Class status. Ahead, you'll find the top nine beauty products pioneering efficacy, innovation and real results. Join us in applauding our Best in Class winners of 2026.

Who What Wear UK Next in Beauty Awards 2026: Best in Class

Best in Class: Skin

When it comes to skincare, we're always looking for brands that combine efficacy with cutting-edge innovation. For us, that brand is SkinCeuticals, and P-Tiox Cream is a stellar example. This powerhouse moisturiser contains a patent-pending formula packed with peptides, niacinamide and lipo-hydroxy acid, and works to plump, smooth and hydrate the skin. No wonder our judges couldn't get enough.

"I was blown away by just how much difference this made to my skin," said Eleanor Hartley, medical director at Hart Medical. "[I saw] impressively visible improvements in skin quality, texture, pores and visible lines after only a week of use. My skin was fresh and hydrated without feeling heavy; the cream turns into a watery gel and feels lightweight and invisible with no residue. The INCI list is seriously strong, with some major clinical evidence behind the individual ingredients and the formulation as a whole. It is glass skin in a jar."

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Best in Class: Makeup

There are so many makeup categories that choosing a Best in Class winner can be difficult. But this year, Chanel made it easy with its Les Beiges Serum Concealer. A true skincare/makeup hybrid packed with hyaluronic acid and white camellia extract, this serum-like formula becomes one with your complexion for radiant results.

"If, like me, you adore a no-makeup makeup look, then this is the concealer you absolutely must have on your radar," says Who What Wear UK beauty director Shannon Lawlor. "It leaves skin looking healthy and glowing, and delivers just enough lightweight coverage to make you look and feel alive. I never want to be without it."

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Best in Class: Hair

We all have different hair types, so finding a product everyone loves is no mean feat. However, I haven't met anyone who hasn't fallen in love with Hersheson's Almost Everything Cream. Designed for wet or dry hair, it can condition, define curls, boost shine, smooth and more.

"Ever since this product launched, I have refused to be without it," says Shannon. "It is the single most impressive multi-tasker around—whether I want a slicked-back look, air-dried coolness, glossy curls or lived-in texture, this cream does it all."

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Best in Class: Fragrance

Fragrance is subjective; what smells good to one person might not smell good to another. But if there's one thing our expert judges agreed on, it was that Parfums de Marly Athénaïs smells amazing. It's no surprise, really, with a blend of bergamot, orange flower, jasmine sambac, vanilla and amber.

"As a fan of Parfums de Marly and the iconic Valaya fragrance, I had high hopes for this," says Who What Wear UK beauty editor Eleanor Vousden. "It's a spring-like scent and conjures the very colour of the bottle. It's bright, juicy and citrusy with an ambery-floral trail."

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Best in Class: Nails

This year, we've noticed an increased demand for at-home nail products that deliver a professional finish, and when it comes to nail tools, you can't go wrong with Navy Professional. If you're going to invest in one thing from the brand, make it the Doris Curved Manicure Pusher.

"I know several manicurists who swear by Navy Professional, and this dual-ended tool makes tidying your cuticles effortless thanks to the curved edge that gently lifts away dead skin from the nail plate, making whatever nail colour you're using apply more seamlessly and last longer," says Vousden. "Most nail tools are an eyesore, but this is a beautiful thing to have in your manicure kit, and is a delight to use."

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Best in Class: Body

2026 was definitely the year body products got a glow-up. Shower gels, lotions, deodorants... our entire bodycare routines have been elevated. The product that stood out the most? Dove's Raspberry & Rose Whole Body Deodorant Spray. Designed to be used wherever you need it (not just underarms), it smells incredible and is suitable for all skin types, even sensitive.

"Not only does this smell great, but it also performs better than most other deodorants I've ever tried," says Lawlor. "I'm a naturally sweaty person, and this stuff has held my hand through one of the hottest summers on record."

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Innovation of the Year

Our Next in Beauty Awards champion innovation, and if there's one brand that blew our judges away in that arena, it's clinic-born Japanese brand Takami. More specifically, Takami's Daily Renewing Soft Peel.

"Exfoliation can be tricky for sensitive skin, but this gentle formulation means that anyone can use it," says Who What Wear UK beauty contributor Perdita Nouril. "I was super impressed with how it dialled up my skin’s brightness and worked to minimise the look of pores, all whilst keeping my skin barrier happy and hydrated."

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Breakout Brand

Speaking of exciting and innovative brands, our Breakout Brand award goes to Rocco.

Founded by broadcaster and creative director Laura Jackson, this brand is all about skincare that does good, but more importantly, feels good. Rooted in the connection between your skincare and your mood, Jackson has created a simple line of products which all feature Rocco's mood-boosting scent, FaceFeels. The aim? To make skincare fun again.

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Social Media Sensation

There's no denying the influence social media can have on trending beauty products, and this year, our Social Media Sensation award goes to Trinny London's Naked Ambition Azelaic Exosome + Vitamin C Serum. This innovative formula combines slow-release vitamin C with azelaic acid exosomes for glowing results.

"This product definitely helps brighten the skin, even skin tone and is an easy addition to your routine," says Who What Wear UK editor-in-chief, Jane McFarland. "I have been using various products from Trinny's range and thoroughly recommend this one."

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Industry Icon

Luke Hersheson has dedicated his career to redefining what great hair looks like. His distinctive vision and creativity have informed every Who What Wear UK trend report of the past decade, and from his work behind the chair to his influence on fashion, beauty and celebrity culture, his impact goes far beyond the salon. That being said, his impact on the salon world has also changed the game—introducing us to the concept of the super salon, he has created beauty utopias around London. He’s built a career on challenging conventions whilst making great hair feel accessible for all with his blowdry bars and lazy-girl-approved cuts, which is why he is a worthy winner of our Next in Beauty 2026 Industry Icon award.

With the temperature finally starting to drop here in the UK, the hunt for the chicest autumn/winter makeup trends is officially underway. My first port of call? The runways, of course, and after a quick browse of the beauty lookbooks at my favourite luxury designers, I already think I’ve found the low-effort hack that will make looking elegant and put-together easy this season. Enter the suede eyeshadow trend.

We already saw the resurgence of the dramatic eyeshadow looks reminiscent of 2016 pop up earlier this year, but for this season, it’s all about a slightly softer, more diffused take on the look using nude hues that flatter your skin tone. Think of it as 2026’s elegant answer to the bolder smoky-eye aesthetic that dominated the late 2010s, except way less complicated and high-effort. But the best part? This one-shadow look is incredibly easy to recreate. Simply buff out a single, satin-finish colour over your eyelid, and you’ll be left with effortless but oh-so sultry eye makeup that looks intentional and put-together.

Still not sure where to start? Keep scrolling; below, I’ve rounded up the seven best eyeshadows to get the suede eye look at home, to suit every budget and skin tone.

What Are "Suede Eyes"?

A much softer take on the classic smokey eye, suede eyes focus on a one-colour cashmere-matte eyeshadow diffused over the eyelid. Using colours typically associated with the velvety namesake fabric (think brown, tan and beige), this eye trend is the perfect balance between matte and dewy, focusing on a blurred, soft-focus finish as opposed to a more precise look. This makes it the perfect trend for those who want a low-effort, high-impact look this autumn and winter. Not to mention there’s something about the nude hues and satin finish that feels particularly well-suited for the cold-weather seasons.

The Best Suede Eyeshadows

• Best Overall Suede Eyeshadow: Saie Supersuede Baked Eyeshadow, £21
• Best Powder Suede Eyeshadow: MAC Cosmetics Eyeshadow, £21
• Best Cream Suede Eyeshadow: Marc Jacobs Born Star Eyeshadow, £24
• Best Liquid Suede Eyeshadow: Armani Eye Tint, £33
• Best Suede Eyeshadow for Dark Skin:  Jones Road The Best Eyeshadow in Dark Brown, £26
• Best Suede Eyeshadow for Tan Skin: MERIT Solo Shadow in Midcentury, £23
• Best Suede Eyeshadow for Pale Skin: Vieve Eye Wand in Sand, £26

1. Saie Supersuede Baked Eyeshadow

I sometimes find that traditional powder eyeshadows can make my face look too flat; whilst creams and liquids often add too much unwanted shine, I was very happy to have discovered Saie’s Supersuede Baked Eyeshadow a few months ago. It's a suede-finish formula that sits in between being dewy and matte, and comes in a range of beautifully natural-nude shades that add a wash of colour on the eyelids without feeling too dry or heavy.

It has a medium pigment, meaning it will give you the flush of colour but is incredibly hard to overdo and look too harsh (which is great if you have a heavy makeup hand like me). I also love that it can go straight onto my eyelids without any need for a primer, making it extremely low-effort.

2. MAC Cosmetics Eyeshadow

I don’t think I’ve ever seen as many eyeshadow shades as I have in MAC’s single-colour powder range. I was initially worried the formula wouldn’t sit right on my lids because of how dry my skin can be, but with the right amount of skin prep, it glides on seamlessly and settles into a beautiful lived-in look that looks extremely polished but never overdone.

I also have to give it credit for just how easy the shades are to blend out, which makes them ideal for those who are just starting their eyeshadow journey. Not to mention that they’re the ideal shape and size to take on the go with you, whether it be on holiday or on a night out.

3. Marc Jacobs Born Star Eyeshadow

When my eyelids feel too dry for traditional powders due to my eczema, I turn to a creamier formula that will still give me that satin-sheen finish without causing flaking or irritation. Marc Jacobs Beauty’s Born Star eyeshadow is a cream-to-powder formula that’s easy to blend, delivering a high colour payoff in just one swipe.

Not only is the packaging extremely cute, but this formula has become my everyday go-to for a low-effort, high-impact look when I want to look put-together. The shade 130 Hater, a matte chocolate brown, is my personal favourite, but there are also three other “suede” colours I have my eye on, including 100 On Brand, the medium-brown hue above.

4. Armani Eye Tint

If you’re a lover of liquid eyeshadow, look no further than Armani’s eye tint. I haven’t had this in my makeup bag for very long; however, it's already become a firm favourite in my "suede eyes" collection. It's a highly pigmented but easily blendable formula that settles into a second-skin-like satin finish.

The shade Wood is a deep neutral brown that’s perfect for my dark skin tone; however, there are plenty of other hues to suit a wide range of complexions (like the beige hue shown above). Just be aware that a little goes a very long way and the product dries down rather quickly, so blend it out immediately to avoid an uneven wash of colour.

5. Jones Road Beauty The Best Eyeshadow

When I want a slightly more sultry suede look, I tend to opt for a deep, almost-black-brown that will contrast nicely against my skin tone. And my personal favourite is Jones Road’s Beauty The Best Eyeshadow in Dark Brown, which gives me a softer version of the smokey-eye look we all know and love.

It has a soft, velvety finish but doesn't feel dry on the eyelids at all, making it ideal for those of us with eczema-prone, dry or mature skin. Plus, if you think Dark Brown will look just a tad too harsh on you, there are six lighter neutral shades to suit those with a paler complexion.

6. MERIT Beauty Solo Shadow

Perfect for on-the-go use, Merit Beauty’s Solo Shadow has quickly become a cult favourite amongst editors and makeup artists alike. This cream-to-powder formula blends into the eyelids seamlessly without creasing or settling into fine lines, and it also comes packed with sunflower seed oil, chamomile and calendula extract to nourish the skin.

There are five suede shades to choose from, but if you have a medium skin tone, you’ll love Midcentury, a warm brown that will add dimension to the lids without looking too harsh. My only note would be that if you have oily or acne-prone skin, I’d recommend using an eyeshadow primer underneath and setting powder on top to keep this in place, as it might bring out your natural oils and not last as long as it does on drier skin types.

7. Vieve Eye Wand

If you have a paler complexion, opting for a light cream or beige tone is your best bet for a natural-looking suede eye look that doesn't look muddy or orange. And when looking for the perfect recommendation, Vieve’s Eye Wand in Sand was by far the most popular amongst my fellow editors. Described as a sandy-pink hue, this colour will add depth to the eyelids without looking too harsh or unnatural.

But don’t just take it from me; one reviewer says, "I bought Sand after seeing Jamie [Genevieve] use it in literally every single video since they came out. I bought this to make my eyes look done when I don't have the time to do a full makeup look, and it does not disappoint! The blend is so beautiful, and it doesn't budge all day!"

Why Trust Us?

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

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

As a beauty editor, there is little that I love more than doing my makeup (and writing about it) every day. It’s both a meditative ritual and a chance to inject small doses of creativity into my mundane morning routine. Though, my attention to detail has proven to be a bit time-consuming. This process, however, has become considerably shorter (and easier) since incorporating a do-it-all complexion perfector into my routine—one that not only makes my skin look flawless (even when breakouts threaten to jeopardize the whole look) and nixes the need for foundation but also lasts for hours. Neither a hectic 12-hour New York Fashion Week day nor a sweat-inducing red carpet into a late-night after-party could disturb, crease, or oxidize the my-skin-but-better shield that this new formula created. That, my friend, is Marc Jacobs’s Nude Awakening Concealer.

Countless concealers have muddied up the market, and I likely have 50% of them in various makeup stashes around my apartment. Simply put, it takes a certain je ne sais quoi for one to stand out among the rest—much less make me forget about my go-to foundation. While I'd be lying if I said I'm ditching foundation forever now that the Nude Awakening concealer has entered my life (after all, what is a girl to do without her favorite serum foundation?), my bottles have been collecting dust for a solid month since I started testing this formula. Keep scrolling for the full review.

About Marc Jacobs's New Concealer

This concealer, the latest addition to Marc Jacobs's recently relaunched beauty line, is marketed as a medium-coverage foundation. Though, I've found that its pigmentation rivals that of my full-coverage complexion products. The medium part, however, comes into play when we discuss the formula's versatility—sheering into the skin beautifully, offering impressive flexibility (which says a lot seeing as there are already a whopping 40 shades), and building coverage without caking or creasing.

Though it packs the punch of a highly pigmented product, this quality formula has enough stretch to act as an allover blurring agent without feeling or looking heavy on the skin, so long as you use a light hand. Thankfully, the tube is bigger than any other concealer I own and comes equipped with an applicator brush in place of a doe-foot, making precise application easier and thoughts like, Oh my god, am I going to run out of this quickly since I'm using it like foundation? fade into the abyss.

How I Used It

The process is simple: I select my shade (135N, because warm, cool, and neutral undertones have been fairly attended to in this shade lineup), wipe the excess product from the brush along the inner lip, and lightly stipple the formula wherever I need it. Most days include a swipe under the eyes, a bit over the rosacea-induced redness on the apples of my cheeks, and wherever the occasional blemish appears. With a few light taps of a fluffy concealer brush, my skin looks effortlessly diffused but never painted-on—see exhibit B below.

What I love most about this concealer is its staying power—looking more natural as hours go on but never running oily or fading away as the hours progress. Nearly tied with this quality is its filter-like finish, which hangs somewhere between airbrushed and natural. The radiance of my real skin still shines through—which, yes, means that sometimes the shape and slight redness of my blemishes do, too—but this quality keeps the skin from looking starkly covered up instead of quietly perfected.

Who What Wear senior beauty editor Jamie Chevron would have to agree, using the word fun (in italics for emphasis!) for this bottle. "A remarkable feat for a product used to cover up blemishes and dark circles, a decidedly unfun venture," she adds. "That said, I can’t help but smile every time I twist open the daisy-adorned cap and see the paintbrush applicator. Those built-in bristles make blending an absolute breeze, not that the serum-y confection needs much coddling to begin with."

The formula's surprising sheerness not only aided in her application but fixed a potential shade mix-up too. "I initially thought the tube I chose was too light for my complexion, but with a little blending, the flexible pigment wound up a perfect match." In short, you don't need to be too precious about finding your "perfect" shade—you'll get there if you at least know your undertones.

At $36, this concealer totals slightly less than some of my other designer-brand favorites, like Armani Beauty's Luminous Silk Concealer ($42) and Prada's Micro-Correcting Concealer ($48). However, this tube offers more product, comparable pigment, and extremely versatile functionality—making it a great choice if you want something in the luxury ballpark without entering the $40 threshold.

Check out more of WWW editors' favorite concealers below with comparable pigmentation, from drugstore picks to high-end luxury splurges.

Shop More of WWW Editors' Favorite Concealers

ICYMI, Kylie Jenner walked her first Victoria's Secret Fashion Show wearing the $50 million Fantasy Bra—the first time in eight years the highly-anticipated design has appeared on the runway (Elsa Hosk was the last to wear it in 2018). As I described it to my husband last night, being selected to wear the diamond-encrusted garment is the equivalent to securing a Super Bowl ring: exclusive and utterly iconic. Suffice it to say, I legitimately shrieked at her surprise appearance (though, I had an inkling a viral moment was afoot when I saw Kris and Timothée take their seats in the front row).

Jenner looked positively radiant as she made her VS runway debut—a byproduct of all the diamonds, of course, but her soft glam (courtesy of her longtime makeup artist Ariel Tejada) was also every bit angelic. Scroll ahead for a full breakdown of each product she wore, including the $25 mascara that rivals the look of falsies, even on camera. I have a feeling Angel Kylie will sweep this Halloween (T-minus 12 days, people), so feel free to bookmark this for an easy makeup idea.

Every Makeup Product Kylie Jenner Wore to Walk the VS Fashion Show

If you ask me, under-eye concealer is probably the hardest concealer to get right. Unlike other areas on the face, the eye area is up against a few challenges. The skin here is thinner, and our eyes are expressive, meaning that product can be prone to settling into fine lines more easily. And if, like me, you have dark circles, you'll know how tricky it can be to find a concealer that disguises them without looking heavy. So, when the new Jones Road Wide Awake Brightening Concealer (£32) landed on my desk, I had high expectations.

Jones Road Wide Awake Brightening Concealer Review

The Formula

Jones Road founder Bobbi Brown is one of the world's most renowned makeup artists and is known for her minimal approach to makeup. Rather than caking the skin in foundation, she instead takes a "no-makeup" makeup approach to the skin. And that ethos is a thread that runs throughout all of her products and is very much apparent in this new concealer.

This pot concealer features a creamy texture that I instantly knew I'd like. It has a waxy quality, which means it really melts into the skin rather than sitting on top, especially if you're using the warmth of your fingers to apply it. It glides over fine lines and won't settle into them, as the texture flexes seamlessly with the movements around the eye area. I can see just how well this concealer was considered for the eye area.

It also boasts some great ingredients to aid the eye area. It includes a botanical complex of marshmallow root, rice bran and liquorice root, which help to brighten discolouration. Squalene and shea butter are there to hydrate the dry eye area, and vitamin E has antioxidant properties that shield the skin from the day-to-day environmental effects, such as pollution, that can accelerate signs of ageing around the eyes.

The Coverage

As for the coverage, it's very adaptable. It applies with medium coverage, but is easily buildable if you want more coverage on dark circles. Even if you layer it up generously, there's no cakey look or feeling on the skin, which is a huge bonus. It has a brightening effect on the skin, and brightens the under-eye area even after the most sleep-deprived nights. I prefer to use my fingertips to tap the product into the skin, as it helps to melt the product seamlessly into the skin, but the Detail Blending Brush (£30) helps to buff the product in if you prefer using a makeup brush. FYI: I used the shade 3W, a light shade with warm undertones, which worked well for my skin tone whilst adding a brightening effect.

For very dark circles, I'd recommend using it with the Jones Road Wide Awake Brightening Neutraliser (£30) first to cancel out the darker tones, which means your concealer doesn't need to work as hard on top. And regardless of your skin type, I'd recommend applying an eye cream first, but particularly so if you have very dry skin or mature skin.

Before

After

My Verdict

If you're looking for a new under-eye concealer, then I can wholeheartedly recommend this one. Since I first tried it, I've reached for it every single day, and I can confidently say that it has a permanent spot in my makeup bag. It's actually up there as one of my favourite products from Jones Road. It offers great coverage and works seamlessly with the skin around the eye area. If you're wanting more of a generalist concealer to use all over the face, you might prefer a multi-purpose formula, but for the eye area specifically, this concealer is brilliant.

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.

Leave it to Dior to define our winter makeup aesthetic long before the snow falls. The high-fashion house recently released its new holiday makeup collection, Cinnamon Glaze, and it features a range of icy, spicy shades. Think cool, frosty pink and warm, shimmering amber. Created by Peter Philips, a legendary makeup artist and the creative and image director for Dior Makeup, it's adorned in opulent gold tones and crested with the Médaillon, an iconic house symbol. To celebrate the occasion, Dior even transformed its iconic Paris location, 30 Montaigne, into a magical gingerbread house. "For this holiday season's look, you can be festive, delightful, and delicious in cool tones or in warm tones, matte, luminous, or sparkling," Philips said in a press release. "This collection is a real treat, like a guilty pleasure." Ahead, feast your eyes on every glinting, opulent item.

Diorshow 5 Couleurs

Forever Glow Luminizer

Rouge Dior Sequin Liquid Duo

Rouge Dior

Dior Médaillon

This is not a drill: If you're one of the thousands of beauty fans who instantly fell head over heels for Dior's Médaillon Lip Balm only to find it completely sold out on the website (sob), you'll be thrilled to know that it's currently available on Sephora. I'd act quickly, however, as I don't expect the viral phone sticker to stay in stock for long given how quickly it's already flown off the shelves. I won't waste any more time chatting upfront, so let's get into all the details you need to know so you can secure yours. Godspeed!

The Médaillon is part of the brand's Cinnamon Glaze holiday 2026 collection, which is filled with exclusive, warm honey and cinnamon shades and glitter finishes. The entire assortment is worth checking out, IMO, but the viral standout has to be crystal-pink sparkly lip balm housed in a gold Dior pendant—one with an adhesive you can easily stick onto the back of your phone. Given the smashing success of other beauty accessories (Rhode's lip balm phone case immediately comes to mind), I'm not entirely surprised to see how feral beauty fans went (self very much included) for Dior's version. I mean, name something chicer than a Dior phone adornment. I'm waiting!

As for the lip balm formula itself, it has a rather sheer payoff—think just a kiss of pink shimmer on the lips. It's perfect for whenever you need a burst of hydration on the go, and it layers seamlessly over bolder lip colors if you're craving some subtle sparkle. If you're someone who has no less than five lip balms buried at the bottom of their bag at all times, I'd suggest sticking one to the back of your phone for easier access. And when one looks this elegant, it's nearly impossible to pass up.

Now, let's not forget that Dior is a designer beauty brand, which means the phone attachment does come with a heftier price tag. The Médaillon is tagged at a cool $95—admittedly a bit steep for a sheer-pink lip balm, but I'd argue you're not merely paying for the lip color. You're investing in a designer collector's item, one that'll become all the more exclusive once supplies run out of the limited-edition holiday launch. With that, I'll leave the Sephora link below, along with a few other staples to shop when it inevitably sells out. If you missed out, don't worry—these will fill the Médaillon-shaped hole in your heart.

Shop on Sephora

More Dior Lip Products to Shop

Statement lashes. Multidimensional lips. Megawatt highlighter. Beauty trends may ebb and flow, but one visionary has always been pulling the strings: the singular, incomparable Pat McGrath. Crowned the most influential makeup artist in the world (not to mention made a dame by Queen Elizabeth II), the legendary Brit has helped shape every major designer's vision since the '90s, from John Galliano's cinematic surrealism to Miuccia Prada's skin-focused minimalism to Marc Jacobs's doll-like wonder. McGrath was even appointed the first-ever cosmetics creative director for Louis Vuitton, following more than a decade of runway collaborations with Creative Director Nicolas Ghesquière.

But McGrath's impact isn't limited to individual glam moments. She single-handedly transformed runway makeup—often shrouded in secrecy or severely downplayed to avoid competing with the clothes—into its own spectacle worth celebrating. "I love the thought of makeup becoming completely immersive, moving beyond the face into something that is as much experience as it is art," the mogul herself shares with us. "Technology, craftsmanship, couture, cinema, performance—all of it." Take the Maison Margiela haute couture spring/summer 2024 runway, for example, where McGrath turned models into porcelain dolls with impossibly glossy, latex-like skin. "I've never experienced a show that goes viral. That's the first time," Galliano told Vogue regarding the theatrical masterpiece. That's the power of Pat: She pushes boundaries in a way that gets people talking. For decades.

While narrowing down McGrath's best runway looks from 2006 to 2026 feels inconceivable, there's no denying these 18 deserve to be immortalized in the glossy pages of fashion history books. As for her next chapter? "My mind never stops. There are always more ideas than there are shows to put them in," McGrath says. "The dream I keep returning to is a full crystal-encrusted face conceived in collaboration with an architect: something sculptural, structural, where beauty and design become one impossible object." And with her track record, even the wildest dreams float within reach in a matter of time. Pat McGrath isn't finished writing her story—not by a long shot—but for now, let Mother personally escort you through the archives.

"We were creating a character with a whole history behind her eyes, and nothing was ever too extravagant or imaginative. The porcelain skin; the smoky, romantic eye; that pinched, dark mouth—we weren't simply creating a backstage beauty look. We were creating living theater."

"Couture gives you permission to wish upon a star and obsess over every tiny detail to mirror the artisanal craftsmanship that is unfolding in the collection. For this show, I treated every crystal, every lash, every shadow almost like embroidery—beauty crafted stitch by stitch. Those are the moments I live for. Heaven!"

"A fresh, poetic face crowned in black flowers with an embellished red lip that felt like a single flash of majestic color against Raf [Simons's] canvas. Those crystallized lips were just one element of detail on the day, but somehow they became an accessory and talking point in their own right."

"Sarah [Burton] created a world that felt emotional, romantic, and just a little dangerous. The dramatic feathered brow and that pale, ethereal skin had the spirit of McQueen without trying to re-create it. For me, that was always the magic of this look—beauty that made you feel something before it asked you to admire it."

"That raw slash of electric blue across the eye—deliberately unfinished, sublimely subversive. We approached color almost like painters, layering pigments until they became something completely unexpected. Artisanal, fearless, entirely instinctive—it is beauty as art."

"[Riccardo Tisci and I] always embraced contradiction and had this romantic, gothic sensibility. For this look, the embellishment became part of the face itself, with the jewelry and skin as one. I adore a look that blurs where beauty ends and adornment begins. Ornament as emotion—it was such a powerful moment."

"How fun is this look? Lips everywhere—kisses printed across the face and neck like a surreal secret language. It was very conceptual and eccentric. To have had the freedom to do this as a makeup artist was extraordinary and, frankly, wildly exciting."

"Lace laid over the skin like a second, sculptural layer. It was couture craftsmanship translated directly onto the face: delicate, strange, unforgettable. Beauty should surprise you."

"The drama lived in one perfect detail: that gilded, molten lip against radiant skin. Gold has always fascinated me because it behaves like light rather than color—a single metallic lip that completely transformed an otherwise understated face into something unforgettable. Modern, powerful, a little subversive, gold always has a place in my heart (and my makeup kit)."

"Another favorite surrealist moment from the days of John [Galliano] at Margiela. Here, the face was pure abstraction—flushed and painterly beneath that clear veil, a burst of orange on the lip, absolutely no fear of the unexpected. Every face became its own artwork. Color wasn't there simply to flatter; it was there to provoke emotion."

"This is one of the looks that I still get asked about: the cluster of feathers blooming from the lashes. Such a poetic understanding of beauty, and I adored how delicate and otherworldly they were against luminous skin."

"I love creating beauty that feels playful without ever losing sophistication. We played with these dreamy graphic accents in red and white—a little bohemian, a little fairytale. Those graphic lines brought a little bit of magic to every face and were pure joy to create."

"What would be a retrospective without a look back to that glass skin? In the 35 years I have been doing makeup backstage, I have never seen a reaction like it. We pushed ourselves technically to build that hyper-reflective, porcelain finish—layering and layering our special formula to catch the light until each face looked like a living mannequin. We worked through the extraordinary blend of cinematic, historical, and futuristic worlds, and we answered it with beauty that matched its artistry entirely. The whole world felt it. So did I."

"There was something wonderfully surreal about turning the ear itself into the jewelry. Crystal, skin, and that extraordinary emerald became one precious gesture, as if the jewel had grown directly from the body. Pure Schiaparelli magic."

"One bold, glossy circle of red—graphic and fearless: a three-dimensional, circular mouth that channeled this [look] into one perfect accent. Truly subversive! That is confidence. And confidence, when you are creating looks to complement a collection, is everything."

"Inspired by the legendary David Bowie: bleached brows, porcelain skin, couture contour, and one uncompromising red mouth. It felt like a portrait from another era, completely reimagined for the future. Sophisticated, severe, and utterly beautiful."

"That liquid onyx lip was the entire gesture—molten, immaculate, and incredibly powerful against the skin. I loved the restraint of it: one surreal, perfect mouth that made the whole look feel utterly otherworldly."

"A Felliniesque gold and blue collide on the eye—warm and cool, metallic and ethereal—against luminous bare skin. With Nicolas [Ghesquière], the beauty always feels precise, futuristic, and completely modern."

The Who What Wear office is basically one big fashion and beauty potluck. As a team of shopping-obsessed editors, we're constantly swapping product recommendations, be it the trend-forward pieces that will elevate our fall wardrobes or the smoky perfumes that are destined for compliments. I typically return home with no less than three new items added to my cart (sorry to my wallet) and a bevy of styling tips to go along with them. All in a day's work!

Recently, in between meetings, I innocently wondered aloud, "Has anyone tried the new Anfisa lip liners?" Immediately, I was met with an overflow of praise from the entire team. Oh my god, they're so good. I'm obsessed. The shades are incredible. And when multiple editors come to the same conclusion without any prior discussion, that's when I know an item's a real winner. Of course, I'd been secretly using (and loving) the lip liners before their official debut on October 8, but after hearing the passionate reviews from my fellow coworkers, I'm convinced it'd be a sin not to share our full assessment. Below, discover each editor's evaluation and the shade they personally can't stop wearing. (Spoiler: A subtle, rosy-brown tint earns the majority vote!)

Judith Jones, Associate Shopping Director

Shade: Bruised Rhubarb

"I love lip liners, and I’ve spent many years trying and testing lots of different shades. Bruised Rhubarb by Anifsa is by far one of my favorites. It’s a rose-tinted taupe, rich and autumnal, ideal for my skin tone. The liner glides on beautifully and most importantly stays put throughout the day. I barely need to re-apply."

Jamie Chevron, Senior Beauty Editor

Shade: Burnt Toffee

Listen, I am very picky about my lip liners. A mauve-brown shade is my failsafe, and I've only found one perfect match that deepens my natural lip color while appearing totally natural. Then I tried these Anfisa liners. Gloriously cool-toned and richly pigmented, these creamy little pencils quite literally double the size of my lips and don't smear within minutes of applying. After testing each of the four, flexible shades, I genuinely find it impossible to pick a favorite, but I will say that Burnt Toffee (a rich caramel) hasn't left my bag since I've brought it home. It adds just a hint of color to precisely blur my Cupid's bow (my favorite technique to create the illusion of volume) without looking like I severely overlined my lips. I foresee myself using it down to the nub, so it's a good thing I snagged the lot.

Anna LaPlaca, Senior Fashion Editor

Shade: Bruised Rhubarb

"I'm already deeply obsessed with Anfisa's Ân-Gloss (I rotate religiously between the Berry Crumble and Spice Cake shades), so I knew I would be in for a treat when the set of lip liners landed on my desk. It's a tight edit of four earth-toned shades that, unsurprisingly, lend themselves well to combining with the gloss. I gravitated towards Bruised Rhubarb, a warm rosy taupe that I can already envision becoming my new everyday shade. The liner is matte and works very well for definition—the placement and color locked in almost immediately. I smudged the edges for a more lived-in feel since I prefer a slightly blurred effect with my liner, but otherwise was impressed at how well the color stayed in place. I'm excited to try out one of the deeper shades for a full night-out glam because I have a feeling the pencils will become my new foundations for bold lip moments."

Kaitlyn McLintock, Beauty Editor

Shade: Bruised Rhubarb

"I love every 'smoked,' 'burnt,' and 'bruised' shade, but my favorite is the lightest one: rhubarb. It's a rosy-taupe hue that's one or two shades darker than my natural lip color—the perfect distinction for natural-looking definition. As someone who loves a blurred, French-girl lip look, I appreciate the velvety, suede-like texture. It glides easily onto my lips without tugging or pulling. Lately, I've been wearing them under my favorite matte lipsticks or adding a swipe of sheer gloss on top when I need extra hydration."

Alyssa Brascia, Associate Beauty Editor

Shade: Smoked Cinnamon

As Brascia previously mentioned, "I'm picky about my lip liners, but I haven't been able to stop using the lab samples I was sent of these hydrating pencils since I received them earlier this summer. Each swipe is a creamy, gentle caress, which usually means that the formula will smudge or feather off in minutes, right? Wrong! This is one of the first actually hydrating pencil liners I've used that will stay for hours, even after sipping on a martini."

Shop the Anfisa Ân-Define Ceramide Liners

Shop More Anfisa Staples

The autumn/winter 2026 runways have spoken: the "cashmere makeup" trend spotted at the shows of all the most coveted luxury fashion houses is about to dominate the season, and several professional makeup artists have already hopped on the trend, showcasing the most beautiful cashmere looks on the chicest celebs. Personally, after a long summer of constant heatwaves forcing me into a lightweight, stripped-back routine, I cannot wait to experiment with a more complete makeup look, and this trend feels like the perfect one to try.

Favouring beige and brown hues, a blurred, soft-focus finish and flushes of colour as opposed to overly pigmented tones, there’s just something about the cashmere makeup trend that feels particularly well-suited for the cold-weather seasons. And, after many attempts, I think I’ve found the perfect nine-step routine to achieve the ultimate cashmere makeup look. Keep scrolling to see and shop the nine makeup products I recommend so that you too can re-create the cashmere makeup look at home.

What Is "Cashmere Makeup"?

The cashmere makeup trend focuses on creating a soft-focus, velvety base featuring the neutral hues that mimic the cosy but weightless look and feel of a cashmere knit. Sitting somewhere between a matte and dewy finish, but without any of the glow or shine found in a typical makeup routine, the cashmere makeup aesthetic stays away from harsh lines and shimmery bases and instead focuses on a natural-looking, diffused look that’s perfectly suited to the current autumn and upcoming winter season.

The Best Cashmere Makeup Products

• Best Cashmere Foundation: Dior Forever Skin Wear Foundation, £54
• Best Cashmere Concealer: Chanel Ultra Le Teint Le Correcteur, £42
• Best Cashmere Blush: MAC Skinfinish Colourstruck Blush, £28
• Best Cashmere Eyeshadow: Danessa Myricks Groundwork Palette, £74
• Best Cashmere Lipstick: Bobbi Brown Luxe Cashmere Matte Lipstick, £36

1. Iconic London Velvet Smooth Pore Refining Primer

2. Dior Forever Skin Wear Foundation

3. Chanel Ultra Le Teint Le Correcteur Flawless Finish Concealer

4. Refy Skin Finish Setting Powder

5. MAC Skinfinish Colourstruck Blush

6. Marc Jacobs Beauty Legally Bronze Bronzer

7. Danessa Myricks Beauty Groundwork Palette

8. Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Contour Duo

9. Bobbi Brown Luxe Cashmere Matte Lipstick

Why Trust Us

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

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

It was one of the first truly crisp nights of October when Willow Smith took the stage at Sony Hall in New York. Beneath the iconic music venue's starry ceiling, a crowd of undeniably cool concertgoers milled through the smoky atmosphere like ants swarming a popsicle-splattered sidewalk. The crowd erupted in applause when the singer and youngest of Will and Jada Pinkett Smith's children emerged from the velvet curtains. She was a vision in persimmon lace and chartreuse silk, with a striking wash of lavender shadow across the eyes. "Why purple?" I later asked the singer when we rendezvoused in a cozy green room several flights below the stage after the show. "Purple is the color of the third eye chakra," she replied coolly. The intentionality of her artistry—from the thrumming beats of her spiritually charged music to the symbolism of her Dior makeup choices—is not lost on me as we dive into the beauty behind her latest album, The Thread.

The Thread marks the 25-year-old's eighth solo album, but it's not merely a new project for the artist. Smith refers to the collection as "a devotional album" inspired by nature, the different chapters of her life, and an inner sense of homecoming as she continues to forge her journey. "It feels like a sense of an arrival at a certain point in my career," she explains. "Obviously, there's so much more to go, but The Thread is a through line through every different era that I've ever been through." And Smith is the first to acknowledge the bold beauty choices that have marked each one.

"I've been bald. I've done big hair. I've done a lot of stuff. I've done nothing," she tells me, leaning forward on the plush chaise. "I used to just not wear makeup onstage, like, ever. I used to feel like it would get in the way," she adds, "but now I feel like it adds to the energy, and I'm always down for a little change, honey."

Smith's creative confidence in beauty can be traced back to her mother, who was one of her earliest examples, she tells me. "Watching her do her makeup—just being so enamored by her sense of what she knows looks good on her [and] knowing herself inside but also out so well—that was very inspiring to me," Smith says with a small smile.

It takes a fellow visionary to translate the abstract themes of Smith's ethereal music into beauty, so celebrity makeup artist Dee Carrion—praised for her work with Doja Cat, Doechii, and Ayo Edebiri, to name a few—has been the conduit for these colorful makeup manifestations. "She really has been so instrumental, specifically [with] the makeup looks, for this album rollout," Smith praises. We take a few seconds to effuse over her gray-toned glam on Doechii at the 2025 Grammys. "The girls love her!" she exclaims.

Carrion is much humbler about her recent work when discussing Smith's color-splashed new era. "I use a lot of shimmers, sparkle, soft pastels, and washes of color to translate the ethereal energy into the makeup look and overall ensemble," she explains simply. Smith's look that evening—a bright lilac eye, accentuated by brown feline liner—was a symphony of Dior eye products, including Diorshow 5 Couleurs in Plum Tutu, the Flash Stick in Celestial Star, and the Waterproof Liquid Liner in Satin Brown. "

"There's a color-blocking element that's happening," Smith says, elaborating on her recent kaleidoscopic looks. Her previous album—Petal Rock Black, released this February—followed a black-and-white theme that reflected the artist's period of creative isolation. "I wanted to do something that was a juxtaposition to that," she adds. "I feel like it is very expressive of all the colors that nature uses to paint this insane tapestry that we call life."

Carrion applauds Smith's creative approach to beauty ("She's down to do fun glam," the makeup artist tells me) but also respects her discernment when she knows a performance would look and feel better stripped back. "Most of our glams are pretty collaborative, and I think each [one] really depends on her energy that day," she explains.

Though every session with Smith produces a new, creatively charged look, there are a few ol' reliables that Carrion keeps close by. The Diorshow Overvolume Waterproof Mascara in Overblack is one. "It's the blackest mascara, and we need the waterproof!" the artist explains. The Dior Backstage Glow Maximizer Palette and Dior Forever Glow Luminizer are the others. "The Glow Maximizer Palettes are so versatile, and I love the shimmer payoff. They're just beautiful," Carrion muses. Alternatively, she relies on the Glow Luminizers for lit-from-within radiance versus eye-catching shine. "I reach for both often," she adds.

Smith is aligned on the glow front. "I love a good highlighter," says the singer, her eyes trailing off as if looking back on the stage she just left. "Picking it up on the camera… A good highlight always hits the light so well." The pair relied on the Dior Backstage Glow Maximizer in the new Icy Rosy Glow palette—an array of frosted white, lilac, petal pink, and champagne shades—and the Diorshow Flash Stick in Celestial Star for touches of radiance on the star's cheeks and eyes. "It has this really beautiful icy purple shade that added such a gorgeous sheen and glow to her cheeks and complemented the eyes," says Carrion. She then added "the perfect sparkle" to Smith's inner corners with Celestial Star, something that made all the difference under the lights.

At this point in Smith's life and career, there are few beauty risks she has yet to take. What's important to her now is inner work—not just as an artist but also as a person. "I'm trying to actually see myself—not through a lens of lacking something but through a lens of intentionality and your sincerity," she states. "There is nothing that is more important than your sincerity." Smith is candid about how the experience of performing onstage can rattle her if she lets it, but she is vigilant enough to understand that these self-described flaws are worth embracing rather than shunning. "I think that the real beauty comes from loving yourself and loving your imperfections," she adds.

It's this self-love journey that makes her even more grateful to be a beauty ambassador for Dior Beauty. "As an extremely tattooed and pierced African American woman, to be involved in this campaign is, I think, groundbreaking," says Smith. "I want other people to see that the perception of beauty is wider than ever before, and it's only going to get wider and wider until hopefully one day it encompasses literally every body. And that's what I want."

Shop Willow Smith's Concert Glam

If you've been online lately, you've probably seen a certain photo of Hailey Bieber circulating on Instagram and TikTok. In it, her skin is luminous, her lips are blurred, and her blush is, well, blushing. The photo in question was taken during an appearance on a French TV show that's famous for its soft-focus studio lighting. It's so famous that the internet is now referring to it in plain terms as "the French show with the good lighting."

The show is actually called Quotidien, and it's a news and pop culture talk show hosted by Yann Barthès. Bieber appeared on the September 30 episode to promote the European launch of her skincare brand, Rhode, at Sephora. She's the latest celebrity bringing attention to this (admittedly niche) internet obsession. For a long time, people have been sharing old images of Margot Robbie, Sabrina Carpenter, Harry Styles, and other A-listers on the Quotidien set, marveling at their ultra-flattering, fresh-faced appearances and attempting to understand how it's done.

Lighting is important—there's no doubt about it—but makeup also plays a major role. Luckily for us, Bieber's makeup artist, Diane Buzzetta, just revealed the exact products she used on set. (FYI: Buzzetta also works with Kendall Jenner and Margaret Qualley, so she's an expert at creating flawless, luminous looks.) Ahead, see every single makeup product Bieber wore during this internet-viral appearance.

Skin Prep

Complexion

Eyes

Lips

Imagine this: It's three days before Halloween, your friends have just coerced you into late-night plans on October 31, and you don't have a semblance of a costume to speak of. Sure, you could sacrifice an old maxi dress to a bag of fake blood and call yourself Carrie, or you could choose to let your makeup do the talking. They both require a bit of legwork, but at least one is washable.

I'm a firm believer that makeup is more than half the battle when it comes to a great Halloween costume, whether your outfit has been planned for weeks or you're just starting to think about it now. I found the very best Halloween makeup ideas for when your 'fit just isn't cutting it, from reverential references to the season's most iconic films (The Rocky Horror Picture Show, in honor of the late, great Tim Curry) to re-creations of pop stars' iconic makeup looks (Zara Larsson! Charli XCX! Adéla!). Keep scrolling to discover the nostalgic, chronically online, and downright niche looks that beauty editors would commend you for.

13 Makeup Ideas for Halloween 2026

1. Spider Glam

No costume is necessary when you're wearing a work of art on your face. Take an editorial approach to a spider costume this year by pairing your favorite all-black outfit with this dewdrop-adorned makeup look, complete with webbed duochrome art and glistening winged eyeliner.

2. '70s Cher

While Cher remains an indisputable fashion icon, her eye-catching '70s makeup defined an era, making it the ultimate reference for a chic Halloween look. Imitate her dreamy retro glam with sparkly lavender eye shadow, feathery false lashes, mauve blush, and matching lip gloss. Extra points for silky, pin-straight hair and a butterfly clip.

3. '60s Twiggy

Another fashion icon you can pay homage to with makeup is Twiggy, the English model who set the tone for the '60s style set. Re-create her trademark makeup with fresh skin, shimmery eye shadow on the lid, and a bit of patience with liquid eyeliner—adding a thick wing over the lash line, painting on lower lashes, and opening the eyes even more with her signature arc over the crease.

4. Zendaya's Odyssey Glam

Yes, I'm still thinking about Zendaya's striking premiere looks for The Odyssey's press tour in October. If you want to channel goddess energy (and attract conversations about film and Law Roach) all night, emulate this stunning look with an all-white outfit, blue eye shadow, and milkmaid braids.

5. The Rocky Horror Picture Show

After losing cinema and theater legend Tim Curry this year, it's more meaningful than ever to dress up as Halloween's most glamorous character, Dr. Frank-N-Furter from the cult-classic film The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Backward corset and fishnets aside, you can re-create this iconic look with a charcoal-gray smoky eye, defined brows, overlined pink lips, and an inky beauty mark.

6. Euphoria Eyeliner

I can't talk about iconic makeup looks—the kind that let people know who you're dressing up as without casting a glance at the outfit—without mentioning Maddy Perez, portrayed by Alexa Demie, from season 1 of Euphoria. Her rhinestone-bedazzled eyeliner, fashioned by makeup-department head Donni Davy, became an instant classic for fans everywhere and is perfect for a glamorous Halloween night out.

7. Zara Larsson Glam

Maddy's rhinestone liner is eye-catching on its own, but what if you wanted to take things up a notch? Swedish pop star Zara Larsson has taken the internet by storm over the last few years for her glittering vocals and chart-topping earworms (hi, "Midnight Sun"), but her rhinestone-bedecked makeup looks and eclectic, beachy outfits have become movements of their own—inspiring millions of fans to spill into her concert crowds donning gem-encrusted makeup all over the world. If you want to channel makeup artist Sophia Sinot's ultra-colorful, glittery looks this Halloween, make sure to stock up on bright shadows and rhinestones. Extra points for a pink hibiscus flower in your hair.

8. Anok Yai as Storm

Marvel and fashion fans, rise. Dressed as X-Men's Storm for Heidi Klum's 2019 Halloween party, Anok Yai's jaw-dropping look is still inspo several years later, especially due to her frosty eye makeup and platinum waves. Complete with icy silver eye shadow, a glittering black wing, and voluminous lashes, this glam is begging to be the center of your costume this year.

9. Black Swan

Many partygoers dress up in black tutus and call themselves the Black Swan, but not many commit to the bit when it comes to the film's signature makeup. To truly emulate Natalie Portman's character from the award-winning 2010 film Black Swan, stock up on silver and black liquid eyeliners to sketch that intricate, wing-inspired eye. Don't forget the vampy red lipstick to pull this dramatic look together.

10. Adéla

Okay, I'll admit it—this look is a bit more about the hair. But after Slovak pop star Adéla Jergová's breakout year (I'll bet you've had her viral song "Nicole Kidman" stuck in your head for weeks), you'd be incredibly in-the-know to replicate her signature pink hair, thick winged eyeliner, and matching pink pout this season.

11. American Psycho

When maximalist makeup artist Lynda Florae turned blood splatter à la American Psycho into something glamorous, I immediately saved the look for last-minute Halloween inspiration. The MUA kept her skin luminous, accenting the high points of her cheeks and inner eyes with a hint of toasted blush before painting red drips onto her skin. (Cherry-red liquid liner and even no-budge liquid lipstick work well for this—just make sure your products are eye-safe if adding near the lids.) To finish the look, apply a glossy red lip and glue red gems over the streaks and sporadically across the face for added visual interest.

12. Euphoria Glitter Tears

The showstopping makeup on Euphoria didn't end with Maddy. Zendaya's character Rue donned makeup very few times—mostly in the form of glitter tears—but these scenes defined the aesthetic of the show for years to come. Re-create Rue's shimmering tear tracks with purple and white glitter shadows or the exact glitter paint Davy created for her brand, Half Magic, inspired by Rue.

13. Charli XCX's Smoky Eyes

Between Charli XCX's Brat and Music, Fashion, Film tours, the star has given us more than enough beauty and fashion inspiration for an undeniably cool Halloween costume. To reference the It-girl pop star, rim your eyes in black eyeliner and create a smoky base with a black cream or liquid eye shadow. Then, blend black powder eye shadow into the crease to make the look feathery, smooth, and oh so rock star coded. Extra points for fishnets, black sunglasses, and a ripped-up T-shirt.