Makeup artists are forecasting a vibrant shift in beauty trends for 2026, highlighting bold colors, unique textures, and personal expression. As consumers grow weary of fleeting trends, they are increasingly leaning towards makeup that reflects their individuality. This emerging preference was evident on the spring 2026 runways, where bright eye shadows and pastel lip colors dominated, signaling a desire for creativity and joy in personal grooming.
Kaitlin Rinehart, Ulta Beauty‘s vice president of merchandising, notes a significant transition from neutral to colorful products. Rinehart states, “We expect to see more experimental looks and a shift from neutral products to those that deliver more color payoff and personal expression.” This sentiment is echoed by makeup artists like Lauren Andersen, who emphasizes a rising appreciation for artistry in makeup that is expressive rather than corrective.
The second half of 2025 witnessed a resurgence of goth and grunge aesthetics, while 2026 is poised to see the influence of gaming on beauty products, introducing innovative textures and vibrant pigments. The ongoing popularity of K-beauty, particularly for lip stains and complexion products, is expected to continue shaping the market. Andersen predicts that artistry brands will reintroduce bold looks reminiscent of the 2000s and 2010s, while makeup artist Alex Levy observes a growing movement towards individuality in makeup choices.
Reflecting on past trends, the 1980s aesthetic is making a notable comeback, with bright blush and colorful eye makeup reminiscent of that era appearing on runways. Shows like those of Pat McGrath featured striking blue eyeshadows and bold colors that evoke the exuberance of the past. According to Rinehart, Ulta is proactively adding artist-focused brands to its shelves, catering to customers’ desires for more vibrant and expressive beauty options.
Colorful Eyes and Nostalgic Lips
The spring runways showcased a spectrum of eye shadow shades, as seen in collections from designers such as Tom Ford and Schiaparelli. Makeup artist Alexandra French remarks, “I think we are seeing the pendulum swing in the opposite direction from the clean girl,” suggesting a shift towards more vibrant and sculpted looks. As consumers seek inspiration from social media, colorful eyes and creative designs are becoming increasingly popular.
For those looking to enhance their eye makeup, Andersen recommends starting with creamy, blendable formulas and layering on pigmented powders. Brands like Pat McGrath Labs and Jo Baker’s Bakeup Beauty are leading the charge in offering products that allow for artistic expression.
The influence of nostalgia is particularly strong among millennials and Gen Z, who are drawn to the playful colors of the 1980s and 1990s. Rinehart anticipates customers will seek to recreate iconic looks from these decades, driven by a desire to celebrate individuality through makeup.
Trends in Lashes and Lip Products
As 2026 approaches, the focus on lashes is set to intensify, with a growing interest in at-home lash enhancement. Searches for “cluster lashes” and “magnetic lashes” have surged, reflecting a desire for convenience and affordability. According to makeup artist Tisha Thompson, “People are moving back to strip and cluster lashes for at-home convenience.” These options offer a more manageable alternative for those seeking dramatic looks without the commitment of professional extensions.
In the realm of lip products, lip stains are projected to remain popular due to their long-lasting performance and ease of use. Megan Bang, a beauty strategist at WGSN, suggests that 2026 will see innovations in formulas, inspired by the latest K-beauty trends. “Blurry-matte textures will dominate the category,” she predicts, as consumers increasingly opt for softer, more natural finishes.
Pastel shades are also making a resurgence, with makeup artists mixing bold colors to create whimsical lip looks that reflect a desire for joy and playfulness. As noted in a recent culture report by Spate Data, consumers are actively seeking ways to infuse happiness into their daily routines through vibrant makeup choices.
Overall, the makeup landscape in 2026 is poised to embrace a colorful and expressive ethos. With a focus on individuality, nostalgia, and innovation, consumers can expect to see a range of bold products that encourage personal creativity and self-expression in their beauty routines.