If 2019 makeup looks were all about experimentation, then 2020 is the year of embracing the drama and acting casual about it. Long gone are the days when sticking rhinestones on your face was solely for Coachella or neon liner was an unapproachable, scary thing. Now’s the time to buy a multicolored palette, or try out that technique you saw on Instagram (it’ll look good, we promise) and throw caution to the proverbial wind. But “doing your own thing,” and “expressing yourself,” is easier said than done, which is why we’ve tapped makeup artists Jaleesa Jaikran and Kasey Spickard to guide you through the makeup trends you’ll see all year long.
Skin Is In
Ushered in by skin-first brands like Glossier and glow-obsessed makeup artists like Nam Vo, dewy, luminous skin has become a trend of its own. “Hydrated, nourished, and radiant without looking metallic is in,” says Spickard, who loves creating a flawless, hydrated base. This will manifest in products too, he continued, predicting that multipurpose balms for face and body will be everywhere. His current favorite is ANFISA Lilou Skin Regenerating Balm, which he uses to create a natural, dewy look.
Cool Tones
After a decade-long obsession with warm-toned hues, cool tones are getting a chance at the spotlight. “We’re going to see more blues, greens, purples, and cool pinks make their way back into our eye looks,” says Spickard, referencing the pastel blues and greens from NYFW S/S 2020.
Unexpected Liner
Maybe it’s the lasting effects of Euphoria or the itch to try something innovative and new, but bold eyes are becoming the norm. The eyes will be the place to experiment this year, and liner is a good place to start. The classic wing will be remixed, predicts Spickard, with different shades and finishes like metallic or pastels replacing the classic black shade. Another fun way to get in on the trend is to forgo liner altogether and use embellishments instead. All you need is lash glue to help adhere the rhinestones to the and a tweezer to apply, Jaikran shared.
More Than A Hint Of Blush
Blush is one of those beauty products that does a lot but gets none of the credit for doing it. The unsung hero of a beat face, blush has the ability to make anyone look fresh and rested, and adds a little intrigue to an otherwise flat base. It tends to be a subtle add rather than a focal point, but that’s set to change this year. Draping — a ‘70s era blush placement that involves the cheeks and temples — is on the rise, as is carrying it onto your eyelids for an almost mask-like look.
Embellishments
The motto of 2020 is: if you’re not sticking something on, you’re probably not doing it right. Whether you’re pasting on a nail sticker, dotting on a colored gem, or rocking a star-shaped acne patch in the middle of a Tuesday, adorning your skin with add-ons is a new-decade mood. It’s practically a phenomenon, and there’s no right way to do it. Just remember, more is more.
The New Classic
‘90s supermodel glam is on the rise for 2020, says Spickard, characterized by matte, sculpted eyeshadows, brown lip liner, mauves and taupes. The look started popping up last year and was spotted on everyone from Kim Kardashian-West to Jorja Smith — with no signs of slowing down any time soon.
Spidery Lashes
Twiggy-like lashes will make a major comeback in 2020, Spickard revealed, pointing to Sophie Turner’s ‘60’s-esque SAG Awards beat. To get the look, he recommends “Keeping both the top and bottom lashes super elongated and fluttery,” and exaggerating those bottom lashes!