Whether or not your thermostat can tell, we are getting ready for a seasonal change. And as we enter autumn, it’s not just our wardrobes that get a reset. We know that beauty trends tend to shake up around this time of year, and we’re ready to swap our summer favorites for some stand-out autumn looks. If you want to keep up with the latest predictions for fall beauty, Kevyn Aucoin’s director of artistry and makeup, Drita Paljevic, has the latest info on the biggest trends about to make autumn 2025 a moody, romantic moment.
The Return of Eyeshadow
“Eyeshadow is officially back, and not just for glam nights out,” says Paljevic. “Whether you’re heading to a meeting or a midday lunch, softly sculpted lids are the new go-to for adding subtle depth and dimension to everyday looks. The focus this fall is on matte textures and neutral tones that feel elevated but approachable.”
We love a shimmer as much as the next girl, but fall trends are leaning toward matte formulas that reinforce a soft, blended look.
“You can create a simple contour across the eyes with just a few easy steps,” Paljevic says. “Using shadows like our new Individual Eye Shadows ($33), sweep a single matte shade across the lid for definition. You can also layer two to three tones for a refined gradient.”
The Lip Shade of the Moment
Autumn is perfect for darker, more romantic shades, but for fall 2025, they’re being finished with a glossy top coat.
“Dark, glossy lips are the moment this fall—especially rich oxblood tones with dimensional finishes,” Paljevic says. “A nod to vampy romance that would fit on the runway, this lip trend is equal parts moody and modern.” Key to this look is the lip combo you choose, starting with a liner that’s gently diffused with your fingertip or a brush. “Next, layer Velvet Lip Paint ($39) in ‘Striking’ through the center and blend outward for a stained effect,” she advises. “Top it off with a generous swipe of Celestial Lip Gloss ($38) in ‘Cary’ for a vinyl finish that catches the light and makes the look pop.”
The ’90s Neutral Reigns Supreme
After a huge surge in Y2K looks over the past few years, beauty is returning to a true standard: ’90s neutrals.
“Did ’90s beauty ever truly leave?” Paljevic asks. “This fall, the resurgence of brown lip liners and taupe shadows is stronger (and more wearable) than ever. Classic neutrals are back in a softer, more modern form that complements every skin tone.”
And when you combine this aesthetic with the blurred, soft-edge looks that are leading the moment, you get a updated version of the ’90s vibe.
“You want to define the lips, then softly blend the edges inward for a blurred effect,” Paljevic says. “For eyes, use a fluffy brush to sweep shadow into the crease for a warm, diffused shadow that brings a nostalgic vibe without feeling dated.”
The Rise of the DIY Brow
According to Paljevic, fall 2025 is a major moment for the DIY-ers among us, with more and more consumers seeking at-home brow and lash options that look professional.
“With the rise of low-maintenance beauty and high inflation, more people are ditching their monthly brow and lash appointments in favor of DIY solutions,” she says. “And with the right products, you can fake the laminated and lifted look with just a few pro tricks.”
Options like the Micro Sculpting Brow Pen ($34) offer fine, natural-looking strokes for a fuller and fluffier brow that also combs and defines your existing brows. For lashes, Paljevic suggests curling first, before going in with a liner on the upper waterline. Finish with your favorite mascara to create lift.
“Tightlining the upper waterline creates depth, and when combined with a coat or two of The Volume Mascara ($32) to lift and define, it creates a wide-awake look that rivals any lash lift or tint,” Paljevic says.
