What Beauty Will Look Like in 2025, According to the Experts
Goddess-core, soft life aesthetics and the return of grunge.
We may not be zipping to work in flying cars or vacationing on distant planets just yet, but there’s one thing we do think is ahead of its time — and that’s makeup. This industry is pushing the boundaries of innovation and what’s coming next is nothing short of spectacular. From futuristic reimaginings of matte textures to goddess-like glow-ups, the trends are blending the old and the new ideas to create a sense of nostalgic modernity.
We connected with industry experts to get an inside look at what we can expect from the world of beauty. Whether you’re channeling ethereal elegance or embracing the grunge revival, 2025’s makeup trends promise to be full of creativity and self-expression. Below is a glimpse of what’s to come.
Softness Meets Strength
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One of the biggest trends experts are thinking will become popular is the fusion of delicate, ultra-feminine aesthetics with sharp elements. This can look like soft, flushed cheeks paired with sharp, precise eyeliner or matte foundation balanced by glossy, plumped lips. This juxtaposition will create a beautiful contrast that celebrates both being delicate and strong. “We’ll see a reimagined approach to matte finishes in 2025,” says creator and beauty marketer at Estée Lauder Companies, Anthonino Olimpio. “It’ll be a complimentary contrast of ultra-feminine fluidity with resilient ruggedness — we’re imaging soft cheeks with crisp eyeliners, lip liner with lots and lots of oils.”
He believes it’ll manifest as a softer, more versatile matte that works well for everyday wear, without the heaviness that traditional matte products sometimes carry.
Gourmand, but Make It Makeup
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It might not be groundbreaking in fragrance, but some are predicting that 2025 will see an evolution of the food-inspired makeup trend, with an emphasis on using what you already own in your collection. “Expect a hybrid of food-inspired trends to continue into 2025, particularly with Pantone’s Color of the Year influencing this,” Olimpio shares. “Gourmand makeup focuses on creating looks that feel deliciously wearable.”
These ideas will lean into unexpected combinations, drawing inspiration from desserts and flavors in a way that feels fresh but familiar. From chocolatey eyeshadows to berry-stained lips, it’s about having fun with colors that evoke the sensory experience of food.
Goddesscore
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Prepare for a resurgence of all things luminous, ethereal and opulent in 2025. One of Pinterest’s 2025 predictions, the goddesscore trend draws heavy inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman deities, channeling a timeless, divine glow. Makeup artist Leslie Dumeix predicts this look will be a favorite for makeup lovers who want an elegant, glamorous aesthetic.
“Goddesscore is shiny, sun-kissed skin,” Dumeix states. “This will look like golden highlighters, champagne or gold eyeshadows. Satin or glossy finishes that make the skin feel lit from within.” This ethereal makeup look is all about accentuating natural beauty with luxurious, gilded touches.
Castlecore
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For lovers of fantasy and fairytale-inspired beauty, castlecore is a trend to watch in 2025. Drawing from medieval and Renaissance aesthetics, this vibe is soft, romantic and regal. You can expect powdery pinks, delicate purples and velvety textures that feel like something out of a royal court.
“Linked to popular series like House of the Dragon or The Witcher, audiences are drawn to romantic and fantastical eras,” says Dumeix. “It’s a makeup style that embraces royal elegance, with subtle and refined touches like fine eyeliners and stained Renaissance-inspired lips.”
Skin-Centric, Dewy Beauty
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If 2024’s mission was to enhance natural beauty, 2025 is going even further with a focus on fresh, dewy, glowing skin. Forget heavy contouring and full-coverage foundations — this year is about letting your natural beauty shine through with a skin-but-better approach.
“2025 will center itself around glowing, hydrated skin,” says Amanda Gabbard, celebrity makeup artist. “Think products that focus on skincare as much as makeup — tinted serums and glowy sunscreens.” Dewiness is going to reign supreme.
Grunge 2.0
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However, it’s not all soft and ethereal looks — this year will also see the return of grunge-inspired beauty, revamped for a more modern twist. This makeup will feature a dewy base, smoked-out eyeliner and a casual approach to glam. “It’s a light, effortless base with smudged eyeliner and an unapologetic vibe,” explains Gabbard.
For more beauty coverage, check out our Lunar New Year round-up.
