Lifestyle

25 Easy Makeup Looks to Try in 2021

woman wearing a cool makeup look

Makeup looks are fun to try and gorgeous to wear. Thanks to the steady rise of makeup tutorials on the internet, learning new trends and practicing new techniques are made much easier. Taking inspiration from online content is a great way to hone your abilities and put your skills to the test. Aside from other beauty tips such as learning how to style short hair, enhancing your knowledge of makeup styles will also go a long way in feeling beautiful, confident, and happy.

 

Cute Makeup Looks

Hello, Yellow!

This is one of the pretty makeup looks that could make every head turn. Due to this beautiful makeup style’s yellow blush element, this mango-inspired look strays from the typical rosy cheeks that you might have grown tired of. In turn, this is perfect for a date night where you wish to try out romantic Valentine’s Day date ideas, all while looking absolutely cute and lovely. Moreover, it is also a great style for times when you just feel like going extra with your makeup look for the day.

 

Sunkissed Beauty

Look beach-ready anytime and anywhere with summer makeup looks such as this one. This makeup routine is quite easy to follow—leaving you with a bronzed, sunkissed style. You don’t need to have years of experience like that of a professional makeup artist to achieve this look. The key tip to achieving this simple makeup look is to draw attention to your cheeks by generously applying blush. Moreover, you could acquire a sunkissed tan by contouring your face with a bronzer. This will further accentuate your facial features, too. Of course, the most adorable makeup styles usually involve eye design so make sure to apply eyeshadow to further glam up your face. We suggest trying out a cut crease that would go well with this look, as they make your eyes appear wider and more gorgeous.

 

Eyeliner Fun

Many makeup artists and beauty gurus today are trying out fun makeup looks to spice things up in terms of cosmetic styles and techniques. Not to mention, they turn out more distinct and still look glamorous as evergreen makeup styles. This colorful eyeliner technique is among the seemingly crazy makeup looks that many celebrities and makeup enthusiasts are trying out lately. To achieve this, all you have to do is to apply eyeliner on both your top and lower lash line. While you can stick with one color, you may also play around with different shades to make your style even more unique and exciting.

 

Makeup Trends

Neon Green

Neon green makeup looks are among the latest makeup trends today. These bold and eye-catching styles are perfect for those who wish to be anything but ordinary. They make for a great statement look that can be paired with any outfit or hairstyle. Moreover, living your goblincore dreams through a green makeup look will surely give you an ethereal feeling. Aside from neon green, you can also use hot pink or bold yellow to give your eyes more color and style.

 

Egirl Makeup Looks 

With the rise of new lifestyle trends, comes the evolution of fashion and makeup styles. For one, the Egirl lifestyle trend gave rise to a new overall aesthetic that many people started to love. Indeed, Egirl makeup designs took the internet by storm, with many posting them on TikTok, Instagram, and various other platforms. To get the look, you must make sure to do your makeup according to the Egirl’s style. This includes heavy blush, glossy lips, and colored lids. Fun elements such as hearts, flowers, stars, sparkles, or even tears are also added on top of the makeup. Doing so allows one to acquire the signature, trendy aesthetic that goes along with this lifestyle trend.

 

Euphoria Makeup Looks

HBO’S 2019 Euphoria series cultivated not only a moving story or inspiring characters portrayed by Zendaya, Hunter Schafer, and Jacob Elordi among many others. Indeed, the show also helped ignite a new makeup trend that sparked everyone’s interest: face jewelry. A lot of celebrities, online influencers, and makeup enthusiasts showed favor to the trend as they flaunted their bedazzled faces on various platforms. Moreover, Euphoria makeup served as an avenue for many people who wish to live out their escapist dreams. With elements such as crystals, fun shapes, and eye-catching colors, this style truly proves to be ethereal-looking and most of all, fun to apply.

 

Natural Makeup Looks

Natural Makeup Look

Like many people, you might also want to pick up a few ideas on how to achieve a natural or nude makeup look that’s right for you. Some cool and fresh ways on how to do natural makeup include the “no makeup” makeup look. Currently, many people rave over nude makeup looks as they highlight one’s natural looks and beauty. By using the right lip color or foundation which has the same shade as your skin tone, you’ll be able to flaunt your already lovely features.

The natural or “no makeup” makeup look is perfect for laidback days when you just want to look fresh without exerting too much effort. Wearing casual makeup also lets you feel confident and pretty all day—all while letting you require minimal touch-ups compared to other makeup styles. To achieve this style, stick with using types of makeup that are light and easy to apply. A key tip is to also use makeup that has the same shades as that of your natural skin or facial feature. Sticking to nude or subtle-colored tones will give you a more laidback yet lovely look.

 

Dewy Skin Makeup Inspiration

Makeup ideas that flaunt one’s natural looks and personal features are among the trendy styles nowadays. While creative makeup looks of bold shades or multiple colors look amazing, they usually take up so much time to achieve. In turn, lots of people turn to natural-looking makeup techniques to achieve an effortlessly glowing look. 

Going for the dewy makeup look with glass skin is also one of the simple makeup looks that you can try out. To achieve this barely-there yet dewy look, you may opt for a simple eyeshadow color in the shades of tan, nude, beige, or a subtle peach. Using a lightweight foundation is also a great way to accentuate your skin without too much coverage that could steer away from the natural look that you’re going for. 

Opting for a lip gloss instead of a heavy lipstick also enhances your lips’ natural color. Applying a subtle blush on your cheeks also lets you acquire a natural-looking glow. For the cherry on top, apply highlighter on your cheeks to give your face a natural-looking glow. Using a face mist or facial spray can also make your skin look and feel more hydrated. 

 

Wedding Makeup Looks

Bridal Glam Makeup Look

Without a doubt, bridal makeup looks are among the style favorites of many makeup enthusiasts around the world. Due to its timeless beauty, a classic bridal look certainly works for any event or occasion. The key to achieving this evergreen makeup style is by using materials with subtle colors. Aside from this, you can also use a bright red lipstick that proves to be a timeless makeup staple as well.

 

Pink Smokey Eye Look

If you are trying to find classic yet glamorous prom makeup looks, look no further! Pink makeup looks such as this one will surely make you stand out and look lovely. Depending on the shade, pink can give you a soft, beautiful glow or a bold, dramatic look. This smokey eye style, in particular, can be altered according to the mix and application of the eyeshadow palettes that you use. Looking pretty in pink is a sure-fire way to make heads turn and jaws drop.

 

Goth Makeup Looks

Grunge With a Modern Touch

Grunge never looked so good as many beauty gurus and makeup experts give it a contemporary flair. Dark makeup looks may typically involve monochromatic dark shades but adding some fun colors could make them look trendier. For instance, this grunge look uses brown and wine makeup shades—giving it a modern touch. Aside from these tones, you could also use orange tones to acquire a dramatic makeup look fit for autumn or any time of the year. 

 

Dramatic Eye Makeup and Lips

For first-timers, going for a grunge look could seem quite daunting. Indeed, the look is unique in its own great way as its distinct style strays away from the typical subtle makeup styles that people go for. Fret not! Goth makeup looks are quite easy to achieve and fun to try. For instance, this dramatic eye makeup is the perfect look for those who wish to tap into their grunge side. The smokey black eye paired with black lips looks stunning and cool.

 

Vintage Makeup Styles

Old Hollywood Style

This classic makeup look is certainly one of the timelessly beautiful makeup styles that you can try. Indeed, the classic Taylor Swift red lip look is one of the adaptations of the infamous ‘50s Hollywood look. To achieve this, one of the makeup tricks you must keep in mind is keeping the celebrity makeup staple: red lips. Using bright red lipstick is key to having a style that’s reminiscent of popular Hollywood celebrities such as Marilyn Monroe or Madonna. To further accentuate your look, using subtle eyeshadow shades will definitely let your lips stand out. For a modern take on the classic ‘50s glam Hollywood style, you could use high-volume eyelashes and add some glitter to your lids as well.

 

Disco Shine

Different makeup looks from years gone by never go out of style. For one, this throwback look from the 70s gives off retro vibes that prove to be timeless. The ‘70s disco makeup is a great way for you to stand out and shine brighter than a disco ball. With this look’s metallic and glittery elements, you will certainly acquire a style that’s perfect for any retro event or a throwback pictorial at home. In contrast with the Hollywood looks from the ‘50s, this disco look accentuates the eyes the most. In turn, popping eyeshadows of metallic shades are on-trend. Don’t be scared to go all out with the glitters, as they also align with this retro look’s elements.

 

‘80s Inspired Look

If you’re up for some unique yet fun styles to try, makeup looks from the ‘80s are definitely a must-try. Makeup styles from this era typically involve bold, vivid colors that are meant to give you an ethereal and dolled-up look. When it comes to makeup ideas from the ‘80s, there’s no need to hold back from choosing shades that are too bright or colorful. In fact, opting for intense and striking colors is essential in achieving a flamboyantly beautiful look from this era. Staples of the ‘80s are red lips and blue eyeshadow, so make sure to incorporate them into your look. Aside from red lipstick, you can also try out lip shades such as pink and orange that were also popular in the early ‘80s.

 

Colorful Makeup Looks

Rainbow Eyes

If you love watching online videos about makeup, you might have come across James Charles. He is one of the popular YouTubers known for makeup tutorial content. Among the most iconic James Charles makeup looks is his rainbow cut crease look. This is perfect for those who wish to be one with Pride movements and even for those who simply love colorful rainbows. To get this look, make sure that your eyeshadow palette has all the ROYGBIV shades. This way, your look’s colors can stay true to that of a real rainbow. You may also opt for mixing out other colors for a distinct yet rainbow-like look, and produce other cool makeup looks that have your own personal touch.

 

Galaxy

Aesthetic makeup looks such as this galaxy-inspired one are a definite must-try for people looking for designs that are out of this world. Moreover, purple makeup looks can be vamped up with some glitter and blends well with pink shades, too. To make this makeup style look even more dramatic, you can use black liquid eyeliner. Applying it heavily on your lash line allows you to acquire a glamorous look that can be worthy of beauty magazines and more. 

 

Red Makeup Look

Without a doubt, red makeup looks can instantly make you look fiercely beautiful and hot. With more subtle tones, a red makeup style is also perfect for the holidays or even a night out with your gal pals. To elevate your red eyeshadow, you can use thick lashes and add some glitter to your lids. Moreover, opting for makeup materials for your cheeks and lips that are in more neutral colors is a great way to make your eyeshadow look pop out.

 

Easy Makeup Looks

Thick Brows Trend

More and more people are joining the bandwagon when it comes to thick, Instagram-worthy eyebrows. Celebrities such as Lily Collins, Cara Delevingne, and Emma Watson are among the celebrities that sport thick brows to love. With makeup, you can also get eyebrows on fleek. This is an easy makeup routine to follow and a fairly low-maintenance style that doesn’t require touch-ups all day. After filling in your brows, a great tip is to use a clear brow gel to keep your eyebrow hairs in place. Moreover, highlighting your brow bone goes a long way in making your brows stand out even more.

 

Gradient Lips

Without a doubt, Korean skincare took over the world by storm as they promise quality and effective products. Aside from this, Korean cosmetic products and makeup trends also continue to influence a lot of people around the world. One of the popular and widely-used makeup styles from Korea is the trendy lip stain look. It is one of the soft makeup looks that are perfect for people who wish to acquire a low-maintenance yet equally adorable lip style. While it looks absolutely chic, gradient lips are also easy to do. This aspect makes them one of the go-to styles of people who are always on the go.

 

Smokey Eyeliner

Whether you’re a makeup beginner or a pro in the field, one of the evergreen makeup styles you must learn is how to acquire a smokey eyeliner look. This is perfect for when you wish to channel your inner rockstar self or simply feeling a more dramatic flair for your eyes. With just black eyeliner, you can easily achieve this look. If you want a more subtle touch, you can use lighter colors such as brown or burgundy to still nail that smokey eyeliner look.

 

Eyeshadow Looks

Cat Eye

Due to the emergence of mask usage, more and more people turn to various eye makeup looks that make their eyebrows and eyes still looking beautiful or presentable. Among the simple eye makeup styles that many are raving over is the infamous Ariana Grande cat-eye. It’s a wonder how a simple winged eyeliner can instantly vamp up your overall look. With simple eyeliner, you can make your eyes look wider and striking—whether you’re wearing a mask or not.

 

Soft Blue Eyeshadow Style

Blue eyeshadow looks are among the makeup styles that people continue to reinvent and use—and for good reason. Indeed, blue makeup looks are fun to recreate as they can be transformed into subtle styles or even dramatic designs based on the shade you use or the colors you incorporate it with. Depending on what event you’re attending or whatever place you’re going, this soft blue eyeshadow look is a must-learn for makeup gurus and enthusiasts out there. The cool shade of blue is perfect for when you want a dreamy or lovely look.

 

Glossy Eyeshadow Look

Light makeup looks continue to capture everyone’s interest—and for good reason. For one, they are so easy to apply as they require a few basic items only. Moreover, these kinds of makeup styles typically use lightweight materials that feel breezy on the skin. Due to these, glossy lids instantly became a pop eye makeup trend among people. Their dewy finish leaves people looking more fresh and healthy-looking. Not to mention, they are super easy to apply and stunning to see.

 

Gold Glam

There is no debate when it comes to gold makeup looks being one of the most lavish makeup styles. Indeed, they instantly give class and luxury to any wearer. While gold eyeshadow is already enough to give your eyes some extravagant glam, using glitters can truly go a long way in giving you more shine and glow. For black-tie events or important occasions, you can never go wrong with a gold makeup look that will never go out of style.

 

Basic Makeup Items

makeup items for cool makeup looks
Photo by cottonbro on Pexels

As the popular saying goes, “a tool is only as good as its user.” When it comes to makeup, the same thing applies because even though you have the best items, practicing makeup techniques and fundamentals will still fare better. It is essential, however, for you to have some basic makeup items in your possession so that you would be able to hone your skills and create the looks that you wish to try. Your starter makeup kit can then include additional, non-essential items the better you hone your skills over time.

Among the makeup kit essentials you must consider using or keeping include:

  • Makeup Brushes
  • Curlash Tool
  • Beauty Blender or Makeup Sponge
  • Skin Primer
  • Eyeshadow
  • Eyeliner
  • Lip Gloss or Lipstick
  • Eyeshadow Palette
  • Contouring Makeup
  • Face Highlighter
  • Eyebrow Pencil or Brow Kit
  • Powder or Liquid Foundation
  • Concealer
  • Setting Powder
  • Setting Spray

 

Notable Makeup Brands

different packaging of makeup brands
Photo by Element5 Digital on Unsplash

A good makeup artist or enthusiast should not only have the right tools or skills. It is also vital for one to know the best brands that produce reliable products. With quality items, you can further ensure not just the longevity or effectiveness of your makeup. You will also be able to come up with remarkable designs.

Some makeup brands worth checking out are the following:

  • Fenty Beauty
  • MAC Cosmetics
  • Pat McGrath Labs
  • Anastasia Beverly Hills
  • ColourPop Cosmetics
  • NYX Professional Makeup
  • Too Faced
  • Benefit Cosmetics
  • NARS Cosmetics
  • Urban Decay
  • Smashbox
  • Laura Mercier Cosmetics
  • Tom Ford
  • Bobbi Brown Cosmetics
  • Christian Dior Makeup
  • Chanel

 

Broaden Your Knowledge on Makeup Looks

Aside from these makeup styles, there are other techniques and designs that you can choose from and try out. When it comes to makeup, the sky’s the limit as there are endless possibilities and ways for you to reinvent yourself. As you broaden your knowledge on makeup designs, do keep in mind that beyond taking inspiration, the most important thing is still to go for what you’re comfortable with. Nothing beats the feeling of feeling beautiful and confident with your own style and features as you embrace your creativity and individuality unconditionally.