Winter makeup trends to look out for this season Winter makeup trends to look out for this season Winter beauty always hits differently. Makeup looks richer, moodier and a little more elevated this time of year. Suddenly, you find yourself gravitating towards beauty looks that make you feel like you belong in a dimly lit Italian restaurant. This season, we’re seeing classic cold weather staples being reworked to fit our day-to-day lives. Think matte skin, smoky eyes and berry tones that feel more lived-in than overly perfected. The overall vibe is less “Instagram full glam” and more effortless beauty. beauty Eye candy: Colour mascara is the makeup trend we're obsessed with right now Read more We’re especially loving dramatic eye makeup this winter. Colour mascara is having a major moment right now with shades that subtly elevate the eyes without feeling too bold. We’re also leaning into softer, less defined lips this season thanks to the blurred lip trend. You can still line your lips if that’s more your style, but the focus is on keeping everything slightly diffused rather than overly sharp. Lips are glossy again, but in darker shades like plum, burgundy and rich chocolate tones. Blush placement is also becoming bolder, giving the face more warmth and dimension during the colder months. If you haven’t already noticed, grunge-inspired beauty is also making a comeback this season — but in a much more refined way. Think eyeliner looks, glossy eyeshadow, and cool-toned makeup that looks intentionally messy without actually feeling unkempt. Dark cherry and berry tones are also everywhere right now. From lips and blush to nails and even mascara, deeper red shades have completely taken overwinter beauty mood boards. Unlike the bright reds usually associated with summer glam, these tones feel richer, moodier and slightly more romantic. Winter makeup is also embracing more texture this season. We’re seeing flushed cheeks and noses inspired by that naturally cold, just-came-in-from the-weather look, adding warmth back into otherwise muted makeup palettes. Metallics are also slowly making their way back into beauty routines thanks to the resurgence of ‘70s-inspired beauty aesthetics, with shimmer finishes and softer metallic tones becoming popular again. Whether you fully commit to seasonal beauty changes or simply swap your red lipstick for a berry lip every winter, this season’s trends make it very easy to romanticise your makeup routine a little more than usual. Image: Launchmetrics Spotlight Image: Launchmetrics Spotlight Image: Launchmetrics Spotlight Image: Launchmetrics Spotlight Image: Launchmetrics Spotlight Image: Launchmetrics Spotlight Image: Launchmetrics Spotlight Image: Launchmetrics Spotlight Image: Launchmetrics Spotlight Image: Launchmetrics Spotlight Image: Launchmetrics Spotlight Image: Launchmetrics Spotlight Image: Launchmetrics Spotlight Image: Launchmetrics Spotlight Image: Launchmetrics Spotlight Subscribe makeup Recent stories by: Lethiwe Nhlangothi The American manicure is the perfect choice for natural nail lovers The hottest beauty trends for Spring 2026 How to get the " I've just been crying" wet lash look with mascara Tried & tested: 5 Best sunscreens for melanin-rich skin 5 Reasons to buy our August'26 Women's Month issue featuring Zinhle Masango GLAMOUR Recommends Eyeshadow hacks for hooded eyes, according to makeup artists Makeup tips and tricks for mature skin, according to the Woolworths Beauty Masterclass Foundation types explained: Liquid, powder, cream, stick, and serum foundations From '70s disco to ethereal glow: Shimmery makeup's 2026 comeback