Summer is here, and with it comes a fresh wave of makeup trends that celebrate color, radiance, and creativity. As professional visagistes, we're always excited to see how runway trends translate into everyday looks. This season is particularly exciting, with a perfect balance of playful experimentation and effortless beauty. Here's our guide to the hottest makeup trends for summer 2023 and how you can incorporate them into your routine.

1. Glowing, Dewy Skin

Summer 2023 continues the focus on healthy, luminous skin. The "glass skin" trend has evolved into something more natural and achievable—think dewy, not dripping. The key is strategic highlighting and proper skin prep.

How to Achieve It:

  • Start with hydrating skincare—look for products with hyaluronic acid and niacinamide
  • Opt for lightweight, water-based foundations or tinted moisturizers with SPF
  • Apply liquid highlighter to high points of the face (cheekbones, brow bone, cupid's bow)
  • Set only the T-zone with a light dusting of translucent powder
  • Finish with a hydrating setting spray

Our favorite products for this trend include Charlotte Tilbury's Hollywood Flawless Filter, Rare Beauty Positive Light Liquid Luminizer, and the NARS Light Reflecting Setting Spray.

2. Colorful Graphic Eyeliner

Bold, graphic eyeliner in vibrant hues is making a major statement this summer. We're seeing electric blues, hot pinks, and sunny yellows replacing traditional black liner. The shapes range from simple wings to more abstract, artistic designs.

How to Achieve It:

  • For beginners, start with a colored pencil liner along the upper lash line
  • Graduate to liquid or gel formulas for more precision
  • Experiment with double wings, floating lines, or geometric shapes
  • Keep the rest of your makeup minimal to let your eye look shine

To try this trend, we recommend Fenty Beauty's Vivid Liquid Eyeliner Trios, Dior On Stage Liner, or for those on a budget, NYX Vivid Brights Liners offer an excellent color range.

3. Sunburnt Blush

The "sunburnt" blush trend continues to evolve for summer 2023. This look features blush applied across the cheeks and bridge of the nose, mimicking the flush you get after a day in the sun (but without the UV damage!).

How to Achieve It:

  • Choose warm-toned cream or liquid blushes in coral, peach, or terracotta shades
  • Apply with fingers or a stippling brush across the apples of cheeks, bridge of nose, and even a touch on the temples
  • Blend thoroughly for a natural-looking flush
  • Layer powder blush over cream for extended wear in hot weather

For this trend, we love Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush, Tower 28 BeachPlease Cream Blush, and Patrick Ta Major Headlines Double-Take Crème & Powder Blush Duo.

4. Glossy Lips in Fruity Hues

Matte lips are taking a backseat this summer as glossy, juicy lips in fruit-inspired colors dominate. Think watermelon, cherry, peach, and orange—shades that evoke summer fruits and refreshments.

How to Achieve It:

  • Exfoliate lips first to ensure a smooth canvas
  • Apply a lip balm with SPF as a base
  • Line lips with a neutral pencil to prevent feathering
  • Choose sheer, buildable color glosses for a modern look
  • For longer wear, apply a stain first, then top with gloss

Our top picks include Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb, Dior Lip Glow Oil, and Merit Shade Slick Tinted Lip Oil.

5. Minimal, Strategic Concealing

Heavy foundation is out this summer, replaced by strategic concealing that lets your natural skin texture shine through. This approach is perfect for hot, humid days when less makeup means less melting.

How to Achieve It:

  • Use concealer only where needed—under eyes, around nose, and on blemishes
  • Choose a concealer that matches your skin tone exactly
  • Apply with a damp makeup sponge or fingertips for a seamless finish
  • Set lightly with translucent powder in the T-zone only

We recommend Kosas Revealer Concealer, NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer, and for a budget option, e.l.f. Hydrating Camo Concealer.

Making These Trends Work for You

Remember, trends are meant to inspire, not dictate. Take elements that work for your face shape, skin tone, and lifestyle. Mix and match these trends—try a colorful eyeliner with glossy lips, or pair sunburnt blush with minimal concealing for a fresh summer look.

For personalized advice on adapting these trends to your unique features, consider booking a makeup coaching session with one of our visagistes. We can help you identify which summer trends will enhance your natural beauty and teach you the techniques to achieve them at home.

Which summer makeup trend are you most excited to try? Let us know in the comments below, or tag us in your summer makeup looks on Instagram @EliteVisagiste.