Fall is the perfect season for fresh beauty inspiration, with changing weather and upcoming holidays providing plenty of reasons to switch up your look. From dark and moody lipsticks to cozy, textured hairstyles, this season is brimming with bold beauty choices.
While classic autumnal beauty trends like warm hair tones and deep nail colors are always in vogue, it’s the emerging microtrends that are making waves in the beauty world this year. These niche trends may be subtle, but they can have a big impact on your overall style, helping you stay ahead of the curve.
So, if you’re looking for something new to try, here are six chic beauty microtrends you can embrace this fall. Whether it’s an unexpected blush shade or a modern twist on your manicure, these trends are sure to earn you compliments all season long.
1. Brick-Red Blush: A New Twist on Classic Warm Tones
Blush is a staple in any beauty routine, but this fall, it’s getting an update with deep, brick-red tones. While rosy pinks and corals dominated summer, the shift to richer, more earthy hues feels just right for the colder months. Brick-red blush is particularly flattering as it complements the fading summer tan while adding warmth and definition to the cheeks.
Celebrity makeup artists are leaning into these deeper hues, which add a healthy, natural-looking flush that pairs perfectly with autumn’s darker clothing palette. The slightly burnt, reddish undertones offer a sophisticated alternative to more traditional blush shades, and they work well on a variety of skin tones, from fair to deep.
How to wear it: Sweep the blush onto the apples of your cheeks and blend upwards for a sculpted, sun-kissed effect. Pair it with nude or berry-toned lips for a harmonious fall look.
2. Breezy Blonde: The Perfect Fall Hair Color
For those who are ready to refresh their hairstyle for the season, “breezy blonde” is the microtrend to consider. This look is all about blending soft, warm blonde and light brown tones with a relaxed, lived-in vibe. Think of it as a beachy summer look that transitions seamlessly into autumn, with the addition of messy, face-framing layers.
Samantha Cusick, a renowned hair expert, describes this hair trend as a soft, shaggy style that works beautifully with textured waves. “Breezy blonde is perfect for autumn because it balances the warmth of summer blonde with the softness needed for fall,” she says. The result is an effortlessly chic and flattering hair color that radiates a laid-back elegance.
How to wear it: Style your hair in loose waves or go for a tousled, wind-swept look that enhances the natural movement of the layers. This trend is ideal for those who love low-maintenance yet stylish hair.
3. Fruity Lips: Deep Berry Shades for the Win
Lips are getting a playful makeover this fall with juicy, fruity shades that pack a punch. While bold red lips will always have their moment, deep berry tones are emerging as the lip color of choice for those looking to embrace the cooler months in style. These shades range from plums to cranberries, and they offer a statement-making pop of color that’s both dramatic and wearable.
The beauty of deep berry lips is their versatility—they can be worn with minimal makeup for a fresh, modern look or paired with a smoky eye for a more dramatic finish. Plus, glossy versions of these shades can add dimension and fullness to the lips, giving you that luscious, juicy pout.
How to wear it: If you prefer a minimal makeup routine, keep the rest of your face understated with natural brows and a touch of mascara. For evening looks, pair your berry lips with velvety skin (more on that below) and a hint of highlighter on the cheekbones.
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4. Y2K Layers: Short, Sharp, and Full of Volume
The early 2000s are making a major comeback in both fashion and beauty, and Y2K-inspired layers are at the forefront of this revival. While layered haircuts have been popular for some time, this fall, the layers are getting shorter, sharper, and edgier. Think of the dramatic, voluminous haircuts that defined the early 2000s, but with a modern twist.
Celebrity hairstylist James Lear explains that Y2K layers add volume, movement, and texture, making them perfect for those who want to give their hair a boost without sacrificing length. These layers work well with various hair types, from fine to thick, and are particularly effective at creating dimension in straight or wavy hair.
How to wear it: Style your Y2K layers with a texturizing spray or mousse to enhance volume and create a full, bouncy look. For added drama, consider flipping the ends of your hair outwards or incorporating face-framing bangs.
5. Velvety Skin: The Return of Matte Finishes
If you’ve been loving the dewy, glass-skin trend that dominated the beauty world over the past few seasons, get ready for a change. This fall, velvety matte skin is making a serious comeback. Instead of the ultra-glossy finishes that were popular in summer, we’re seeing more soft, matte textures that offer a sophisticated, almost airbrushed look.
Velvety skin is all about achieving a smooth, shine-free complexion that still looks natural and radiant. This trend has gained traction with the introduction of new matte foundations and setting powders that don’t leave the skin looking flat or dry. The result? A flawless, velvety texture that feels lightweight and breathable—perfect for the cooler, drier months ahead.
How to wear it: Start with a matte foundation or a soft-focus primer to create a smooth base. Set your makeup with a velvety finishing powder, but don’t forget to add a touch of warmth with bronzer or blush to avoid looking too washed out.
6. Cat-Eye Nails: The Ultimate Nail Art Trend
When it comes to nails, fall is usually the season for dark, moody hues like burgundy and brown. However, the latest microtrend to sweep through nail salons is cat-eye nails, a magnetic nail effect that creates a dazzling, multidimensional look. The finish mimics the reflective, velvety quality of a cat’s eye gemstone, with a shimmering band of light that shifts as your nails move.
Giorgia Cappella, nail expert at The GelBottle, suggests experimenting with rich fall colors like green, brown, and raspberry for a standout look. The cat-eye effect works especially well with these deeper shades, adding a touch of glamour and sophistication to your manicure.
How to wear it: Opt for longer, almond-shaped nails to maximize the cat-eye effect, or keep them short and square for a more understated look. You can experiment with different base colors and magnetic polish to create your own unique spin on this trend.
Final Thoughts
As the leaves change and temperatures drop, the beauty world is embracing a wealth of microtrends that offer fresh, creative ways to express your style. From the velvety finish of your skin to the playful pop of deep berry lips, these small yet impactful trends are perfect for those who want to step outside the box this fall. Whether you’re ready to switch up your hair color, nail art, or makeup, now is the time to experiment and have fun with your beauty routine.
These microtrends may be niche, but they’re sure to make a big impact—so why not give them a try and see where they take you this season?
