Beauty Trends for 2023
Design by Talysha HickersonUntil now, I have always subscribed to the idea of New Year's resolutions. I thought the only way to feel accomplished by year's end was through my seasonal closet clean out, overwhelming fitness goals, and a solid monthly budget. Obsessed with the idea of self-improvement and meeting society's expectations of success, I found myself making goals centered around how to become a better version of myself and, while I achieved most of them, I still felt like something was missing. That something was, grace.
Thanks to TikTok's viral "soft life" trend, I have been feeling the urge to get rid of things that feel heavy and forced. Life is not a constant DIY project and I see that now. We don’t need “fixing”, we are perfect just as we are. So, this year, I've decided to refine my self-care routine, take better care of myself and get back to doing things that make me feel good. Not only that, I find myself wanting to experiment more with my makeup and have rediscovered the joy in getting dressed up. After the last two years we've had, I think I owe it to myself, and so do you. Can I get an “amen”?
Honestly, nothing makes me feel more feminine and free than doing my makeup. And, since masks are still mostly optional, I’m putting my best face forward with the season’s most popular beauty trends. The Spring/Summer 2023 runways gave us sparkly embellishments, candy-colored lips, ‘not-your-normal’ lined lids, and a nod to the 90’s with the return of goth vibes. Expect for makeup trends to keep getting bigger, better, and bolder now that we're back outside. Whether you try one or try them all, I guarantee you’ll feel like “that girl” no matter where the year takes you.
Keep reading for more inspiration.
Hydration Nation
Missoni SS23. Image credit: IMAXTREE courtesy of ELLEAnother popular TikTok trend has been “clean girl” makeup. Don't have a lot of time to do your makeup in the morning? No big deal. Try this if you want that effortless, "I-woke-up-like-this " vibe. Turn up the radiance and get the look with super dewy skin paired with barely there mascara, fluffy brows, and glossy lids and lips. Pro tip: Add serum or liquid highlight to your foundation for the ultimate glow-from-within finish.
Get in Line
Chopova Lowena SS23. Image credit: IMAXTREE courtesy of ELLENo blurred lines here. The newest eyeliner trends debuted everything from the classic cat-eye to chunky to crisscross and even an outline of the eye for a subtle-yet-dramatic effect. For shock value, line the inner corner and waterline with white or an electric pop of color to really stand out.
Goth-Glam
Alessandra Rich SS23. Image credit: IMAXTREE courtesy of ELLEI don’t need a vision to tell me this trend will be everywhere this Spring! Channel your inner Wednesday Addams with dark lips and smoky eyes in shades of plum, chocolate brown or black. I love that this can be worn from day to night and looks good on any skin tone. It’s giving punk but pretty.
Bright Future
GCDS SS23. Image credit: IMAXTREE courtesy of ELLEWhenever you need a pick-me-up, go for the bold with this bright eye look. It's an instant mood booster! For the perfect balance, let your eyes do the talking with vibrant hues and keep your lips neutral with a simple gloss or flesh-toned lipstick then sit back and get ready for all the compliments coming your way!
Diamonds and Pearls
Deus Ex Machina at Harlem’s Fashion Row Fashion Show and Style Awards. Image credit: Getty Images courtesy of Elite DAILY Introducing… “pearlcore”. Make every day special by adding a bit of luxe… because, why not? Take your look from simple to spectacular with this season's embellishments ranging from diamonds, pearls, glitter, and gems. Put your own twist on this trend by doubling up with matching jewelry and hair accessories.
Renaissance Ready
Stella Jean SS23. Image credit: IMAXTREE courtesy of ELLE“Rave-culture” and disco makeup are definitely making rounds this Spring. Something about it feels very extra, but that’s the least of my worries. Look like the ‘Alien Superstar’ you are with shades of silver on your eyes, brows, or a streak of color like Stella Jean.
No Color Left Behind
Etro SS23. Image credit: IMAXTREE courtesy of Harper’s BAZAARNothing says Spring like pastels, right? Trade in your traditional pinks for something more statement-making like yellow, lilac, or baby blue. This season's trend is super wearable and unexpected. For the ultimate color pay-off, use a primer underneath followed with a lip liner to create a base and prevent bleeding. The results are gorgeous and will last you 'hours and hours' (cue Muni Long).
Flush of Blush
Etro SS23. Image credit: Getty Images courtesy of Harper’s BAZAAR I’m not much of a ‘blush girl’ but, I’ll definitely add this finishing touch to every look from now on. No longer the afterthought in your makeup routine, blush is back in a big way. More is more and the look is more experimental and edgy than your everyday blush . The key here is to apply the color in a “C” shape from temple to cheek for maximum impact.