As we eye the trends taking over at the close of the year, winter 2026 beauty seems to be all about rich berry lips, glowing skin and shimmer.
Here are seven winter beauty looks to try, from makeup to hair and more.
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- Biggest themes: berry lips, glowy skin and icy shimmer
- Key shades: wine, plum, silver and champagne
- Easy upgrade: swap your blush for a warm or purple tone
- Nails: see our winter 2026 nail trends
Wine-Stained Lips Set the Mood
Berry, plum and burgundy lipsticks, lined and softly blended, are the sophisticated pick for winter 2026.
We suggest blotting once for a softer stain. The look also pairs well with a bare eye and for an easy evening look.
Lit-From-Within Skin Stays Strong
Cream blush and balmy highlighter create a satin-to-dewy finish that looks healthy and hydrated, which is perfect when your skin is feeling extra thirsty thanks to dry winter weather.
Try skipping heavy powder over the top so the glow stays visible all day long.
Our fall 2026 makeup and beauty trends cover even more glow-friendly ideas.
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Icicle Eyes Add Frosty Shimmer
Silver, champagne, pewter and icy rose shades on the lids give a festive twist on ’90s and early 2000s glam, proving Y2K trends are going anywhere.
Press shimmer onto the center of the lid for the most impact.
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Purple Blush Adds Color and Shape
We suggest playing with colors this winter, including adding pops of purple to your everyday makeup looks.
Trying some cool cool-toned purple blush, blended high on the cheek toward the temple, adds color and lift in a single, easy step.
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Toasty Blush Warms Up Cold Days
We love the idea of combating the chilly, dry weather with an attitude shift, courtesy of toasty blush. Makeup artist MarQuis Ward has mastered the look.
Warm blush placed high on the cheeks, paired with bronzed skin, completes the look. Blend toward the temples so the flush looks lifted rather than heavy.
Smoked Eyes Go Deep and Dark
The smokey eye is big in a big way this winter, with runways featuring midnight blue at Hermès and burnt umber washes at Rabanne.
It can also be more versatile than you think. Opt for crisp lines or try smudging the liner with a small brush for a lived-in finish.
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Long, Natural Hair Takes Center Stage
We’ve covered winter hair color trends at length here, but when it comes to the overall look, expect to see a turn toward longer, natural hair before year’s end.
If you have a natural curl, enhance it with the right products and diffusion. Light creams or serums keep curls soft even in cold, dry air. If your hair is pin-straight, rock that look. Slip heavy styling, letting you natural texture show.
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Which Winter Beauty Trend Should You Try?
Wine lips and glowy skin are the simplest picks for everyday wear this winter.
For holiday parties, icicle eyes or a smoky look will help you stand out more in the crowd.
Try one trend at a time and keep the rest of your makeup simple to see which ones suit you best.
Want to see what else is trending? Read our top fall 2026 makeup and beauty trends.
