23 fall makeup looks to try for glam nights and cozy days

Get inspired to try our favorite fall makeup looks with new-season buys and makeup artist tips

A collage of fall makeup looks being worn by salma hayek andie macdowell and freida pinto
(Image credit: Future/Getty images)

Fall makeup looks are one of the best things about the change in season. A burgundy blush, a moody berry lip, a sultry smoky eye... who could resist?

What I especially love about these easy makeup looks is that you can make them as complicated or as simple as you like. Add a zing of color with just one product like a long lasting lipstick, or get playful with new, intricate eyeshadow looks. In case you hadn’t already guessed, I am a certified fall fan. Sure, summer is just fine, but hot sticky days and Monica Geller-style frizzy hair from the humidity? No.Thank.You. Catch me in October, contentedly sipping an overpriced latte and digging out my new winter boots to pair with a dark new lipstick. 

These fall makeup looks are the perfect accompaniment to chunky jumpers and spicy fall fragrances. To put it simply, fall is the most wonderful time of year – for makeup, clothes, and of course, that 'back to school' energy to try something new. 

Top fall makeup looks to try for 2022, according to pro makeup artists 

Not sure where to start? I spoke to two top MUAs to get their take on the newest trends for fall - Aimee Connolly, and Ruby Hammer, both founders of their own (quite brilliant) eponymous makeup brands. 

  • Swap your smoke: "Smokey eyes don’t have to be just deep, dark black", says Hammer. "Why not opt for a jewel or bronzey colored smokey eye, to better suit your complexion."
  • Try a berry lip: "For a proper Autumnal makeup look, you really can’t beat a berry lip", muses Connolly. "The beauty of a berry lip is that you don’t need to do too much else with it. A polished complexion, some blush, and the best lengthening mascara are all you really need to make it work." 
  • Change up your base: We tend to swap to a higher coverage at this time, but this isn't always necessary. Instead, look for extra skincare ingredients. "As we move into the cooler months, the weather can cause dryness and irritations," Connolly advises, "I would always suggest keeping your base makeup hydrating and if possible, opt for something a little creamier."
  • Heat it up: As with fall hair colors, rich, warm tones work best for an autumnal makeup look. "You can’t go wrong with those warm bronze tones in fall," says Connolly. "Incorporate more rust and orangey tones into your usual browns and beiges." 
  • Start small: "Don’t be afraid to start with a small change", urges Hammer. "If the trend is for bold lips opt for a sheerer texture first, find your comfort zone, and work your way up. Makeup is a tool to enhance your confidence by making you feel your best. If you follow a trend without adapting it you, you may find your confidence is knocked rather than bolstered!" 

 23 fall makeup looks and buys we love

1. Very cherry lips

Reese Witherspooon smiling while wearing deep pink lipstick, one of the top fall makeup looks

Reese Witherspoon

(Image credit: Getty Images)

For an autumnal lip that’s super wearable, consider a cherry red tone a la Reese Witherspoon. Softer than your average best red lipstick, this particular shade is, according to the experts, especially well-suited to anyone with cool undertones – as it will add some warmth to your complexion.  

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Maybelline Superstay Vinyl Ink Long Lasting Lipstick in Lippy | RRP: $12.99/£11.99

Maybelline makes some of the best drugstore makeup out there, and this liquid lipstick is no exception. A high-shine color that doesn't compromise on staying power, in the perfect maraschino tone. 

2. Amethyst eyes

A close-in shot of Freida Pinto wearing one of the key fall makeup looks, amethyst eyes

Freida Pinto

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Shake things up this season with a bold, purple eye. “Colour is having a real resurgence this season – especially purple,” says Dominic Skinner, global senior artist for MAC Cosmetics, who insists that this shade is flattering for all. To tap into the trend, opt for purple eyeliner or go all out with a sultry, smoky eye. 

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Fenty Beauty Snapshadows Mix & Match Eyeshadow Palette | RRP: $28/£22

This surprisingly versatile palette is the perfect way to ease into the new season and create endless fall makeup looks. Either pick one shade for a more subdued, everyday look or blend a few options together for more depth. 


3. A peek of lilac

Andie MacDowell wearing one of the nicest fall makeup looks - pretty lilac eyes paired with a nude lip

Andie MacDowell

(Image credit: Getty Images)

If amethyst feels a bit out there, go for a lighter lilac. It's an especially lovely eyeshadow for blue eyes, but it also helps brighten up hazel eyes as Andie shows here. Adding some depth with a kohl liner helps give the color a grown-up twist, and nude lips are the perfect pairing. 

Barry M Clickable Eyeshadow in Intrigued| RRP: $12.99/£2.99

Barry M Clickable Eyeshadow in Intrigued| RRP: $12.99/£2.99

When it comes to experimenting with bright eyeshadow looks as a beginner, pick cheap and cheerful single colors rather than wildly expensive, intimidating palettes. This lilac is bright, beautiful, and bargainous.


4. Soft sheer base

Maya Rudolph wearing one of the key fall makeup looks - a sheer, hydrated base

Maya Rudolph

(Image credit: Maya Rudolph)

Some may think that the best tinted moisturizers are only suitable for summer, but that's just not true. A flattering radiant base has a place in fall, too. Skinner recommends opting for a moisturizing foundation that gives good coverage to protect skin from the elements while delivering a dewy makeup look. It will also pair well with a punchy lippie like Maya has on here.

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Charlotte Tilbury Beautiful Skin Foundation | RRP:  $44/£36

Beautiful skin in a bottle? That's me sold. I'd say this is closer to a CC cream than a full-blown foundation, as the name suggests. A light, radiant base that has the bonus of being hydrating - perfect for the transition to fall. 

5. Raspberry gloss

Viola Davis wearing fall makeup looks, including a raspberry gloss

Viola Davis

(Image credit: Getty Images)

The best lip glosses don't always have to be nude. Get playful with deeper, autumnal berry colors like raspberry and blackberry, as a more flattering take on fall makeup looks. Glossy finishes tend to be more forgiving than full-blown mattes, so this is the ideal way of trying out darker lip colors if you're tempted to swap out your pinks and corals. For a longer-wearing finish, the experts recommend applying a base layer of one of the best lip liners first. 

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MAC Powerglass Plumping Lipgloss in Pout Last Night | RRP: $23/£22

A non-sticky formula, this adds a nice level of glossy sheen without looking too sparkly or shiny. Ginger and menthol stimulate the lips to give them a subtle plump, which is a bonus if that's something you're after.

6. Retro Cat Liner

Penelope Cruz wearing one of the key fall makeup looks, a dramatic cat eye

Penelope Cruz

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Fans of the retro '60s vibe will love this smoky cat eye - in fact, it's probably one of the most sought-after fall makeup looks of the season. Striking and stylish, the feline flick is on the tricky end of makeup application, but once you've mastered how to apply eyeliner, you'll feel invincible. Top tip? “Start with the flick,” says Connolly, “before running the liner along the lash line to meet it.” This way, you can make sure your flicks are even.

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NYX Epic Wear Liquid Liner | RRP: $10/£9

One of the longest-wearing eyeliners I've ever tried. If smudgy eye makeup is your bugbear, then give this a go. It provides sharp, clean lines that seriously won't budge all day. All for $10/£9 - what's not to love?

7. The not-so-smokey eye

Natalie Portman wearing one of the best fall makeup looks, metallic smokey eyes

Natalie Portman

(Image credit: Getty Images)

If dramatic, dark eyeshadow looks intimidate you, opt for a lighter take on the smoky eye. Swap charcoal for dove grey with some shimmer, incorporating different tones of metallic to add extra dimension. Not only will this be an altogether more flattering look, but it'll also pair nicely with brighter lipsticks, as Natalie shows above. 

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Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick | RRP: $32/£27

These pencils are a secret weapon to create quick, effective eyeshadow looks with as little faff as possible. Just swipe on and go - you can mix a few shades to create a more intricate look, or wear solo for low-key styles. 

8. Bronze monotone eyes

Jessica Chastain wearing bronze eyeshadow, one of the key fall makeup looks

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Sticking to just one eyeshadow shade is the easiest way of styling out fall makeup looks. Just swipe on, add your best mascara, and voila! You can't really beat bronze when it comes to this time of year - it's so flattering, neutral without being boring, and will suit all eye shades and skin tones. Top tip? Opt for cream textures that can be pressed and smudged along the lids with zero faff.

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Charlotte Tilbury Eyes to Mesmerise Cream Eyeshadow in Walk of No Shame | RRP: $34/£25

Charlotte Tilbury makes some of the best cream eyeshadows, and this zingy copper shade is my favorite color in the Eyes To Mesmerize range. The tiniest dab gives a gorgeous iridescent look.

9. Sleek matte base

Priyanka Chopra in a fall makeup looks, matte foundation base

Priyanka Chopra

(Image credit: Getty Images)

If a sheer, radiant base isn’t your thing – or, if you’re oily-skinned and are conscious of shine – rejoice at the return of a matte base. Fall makeup looks like Priyanka's plum lipstick pairs beautifully with a matte complexion and matte doesn't have to be flat, especially when you add a subtle bit of glow with the best highlighters. To avoid a powdery finish, Skinner recommends forgoing setting powder in favor of a matte primer, pressed on top of any areas prone to shine.

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Nars Soft Matte Complete Foundation | RRP: $40/£28

On the days where I want my base to last, and avoid any possibility of shine, this is the base I turn to. It's perfectly described by its name - softly matte, without feeling drying or dragging on the skin. A brilliant option for matte fans. 

10. Barely there makeup

Solange Knowles wearing fall makeup looks, including a matte base and glossy lips

Solange Knowles

(Image credit: Getty Images)

According to the experts, experimenting with different textures is an easy way to freshen up a makeup look, adding a point of interest. For an everyday fall look, consider this barely-there matte base with a clear or neutral glossy lip. The contrast in texture looks minimal, effortless, and seriously chic. 

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Dior Addict Lip Glow | RRP: $38/£29.50

The ultimate 'your lips but better' buy, this sheeny balm is a global bestseller for a reason. It gives a hint of color and adds shine without feeling sticky. It's available in nine shades, but this petal pink will give a subtle boost to natural lip colors. 

11. The stand out power pout

Kate Moss wearing one of the key fall makeup looks, a bold red lip with minimal makeup to accompany it

Kate Moss

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Another way to go for a minimal style when it comes to fall makeup looks is to focus on one area, then leave the rest relatively bare. This is one of our favorite ever makeup looks - just a simple red lip, maybe a swipe of mascara, and that's it. This lets the bold, bright lip do the talking. To apply, go straight from the bullet and clean up the edges with a little concealer using a small makeup brush. 

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Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Lipstick | RRP: $11.99/£9.99

Another Maybelline lip product. What can I say, they really know their stuff. Especially when it comes to long-lasting bold, bright lip colors that seriously don't budge even after countless snacks. I keep one of these in every handbag, and I haven't been let down by them once. Shot caller is a perfect match for Ms Moss' burnt orange shade. 

12. Bye bye, bronzer

Anne Hathaway wearing fall makeup looks, including skipping bronzer

Anne Hathaway

(Image credit: Getty Images)

The best bronzers aren’t solely reserved for summer – but if you want to embrace an outdoorsy rosy glow, we recommend skipping this step and going straight for blush. “A little bit of blusher, applied onto the apples of your cheeks, will inject your complexion with a shot of color and healthy radiance,” says Connolly. “If you do want to go for a sun-kissed look, apply blush across the nose, too." 

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Clinique Blushing Blush Powder Blush in Smouldering Plum | RRP: $28/£27

A good match for Anne's deep blush, this powder formula feels lightweight on the skin and gives great color payoff. The included brush is handy for travel, but I prefer using a bigger, fluffier brush to target the apples of my cheeks. 

13. Silver sparkle

Gemma Chan wearing fall makeup looks, including siler sparkly shadow

Gemma Chan

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Frosted eyeshadow is set to be a big trend this season. Wear a silver shadow on its own or, “once you’ve applied your smoky eye, tap an iridescent sparkle shadow onto the very center of your eyelid,” says Skinner. It will make those peepers pop and “it will make your eyes look bigger,” adds Skinner. As well as being perfect for fall, this is a great Christmas makeup look too.

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MAC Dazzleshadow Liquid Eyeshadow in Not Afraid To Sparkle | RRP: $25/18.50

This little pot of joy can be used to zhuzh up daily makeup looks or worn on its own for full-blown sparkle and a bolder evening look. Available in 10 shades, you can pick your favorite color to add to your collection.

14. Golden touches

Jennifer Lopez styling out one of the fall makeup looks, golden eyes

Jennifer Lopez

(Image credit: Getty Images)

According to Connolly, you can’t go wrong with warm bronze and golden tones in winter. To make an impact this season, try a golden shimmer shadow – “it’s essentially an elevated version of your best neutral eyeshadow,” says Connolly. Sweep the shadow all over your lids and take a thin eyeshadow brush to run it along the lower lash line, too. This look works especially well with simple nude lipstick.

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Clarins Ombre Sparkle Eyeshadow in Sparkling Gold | RRP: $26/20

One of my favorite go-to golds, this highly pigmented shadow has a nice level of sparkle, without feeling too OTT shimmery. I apply this with a dense shadow brush, but it'll also work with your fingers. It's the perfect grown-up sparkly shadow. 

15. Upside down eyeliner

Salma Hayek wearing one of the fall makeup looks, teal eyeliner on her lower lash line

Salma Hayek

(Image credit: Getty Images)

A great way of getting playful with eyeliner looks is to flip it upside down and focus on the under-eye area instead of the lid. This is especially effective if you're looking for makeup for hooded eyes, as it will open up your eyes without having to worry about eyeshadow on your lids from smudging and smearing. Teal and blue tones work especially well with brown eyes.

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Shiseido Kajal Ink Artist Eye Pencil in Sumi Sky | RRP: $25/£23

Highly pigmented color, paired with a sharp, smudge-proof pencil makes this the perfect product to get artsy with, as the name suggests. It's also the perfect match for Salma's teal tone. 

16. Sharp liner flicks

Thandiwe Newton styling out fall makeup looks, including sharp cat eye flicks

Thandiwe Newton

(Image credit: Getty Images)

A razor-sharp feline flick is a timeless beauty look that suits everyone. To recreate this flick, choose your tools wisely. An inky black liquid formula is a good choice for maximum impact – just seek out a thin, pen-like nib for easy application. As Connolly mentioned before, start with the flick before gliding along the lash line. For a lived-in finish, go for a kohl liner instead.

KVD Vegan Beauty Tattoo Liner | RRP: $23/£19

KVD Vegan Beauty Tattoo Liner | RRP: $23/£19

Often hailed as one of the best eyeliners out there, this is one of our all-time favorites. Tattoo by name, tattoo by nature - this seriously doesn't budge. If anything, you'll need to really work your best makeup remover in to get it off at the end of the day.

17. Slip into neutral

Sofia Vergara wearing fall makeup looks, including neutral shadow and lipstick

Sofia Vergara

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Browns and beiges don’t have to be boring. For an easy take on this smoked-out look, “use the technique of applying a color pencil all over the eyelids – not taking it too high – to achieve a smoky eye in seconds,” says Connolly. If time allows, layer this with a darker chestnut shadow in the crease and outer corner of the eye. 

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Too Faced Born This Way The Natural Nudes Palette | RRP: $52/£40

If you're looking for a seriously hardworking eyeshadow palette, look no further. You can create endless looks, either by sticking to one or two shades or blending a few different tones for more intricate looks like siren eyes.


18. Blackberry bite

Sienna Miller wearing fall makeup looks, including deep berry matte lips

Sienna Miller

(Image credit: Getty Images)

This is the epitome of those fall makeup looks I was gushing about in the introduction of this piece. This moody berry lip is so striking and impactful, and really helps offset a girly outfit. To recreate this soft glam makeup look, outline the lips with a deep burgundy liner before swiping a layer of matte plum lipstick on top. 

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Nars Powermatte Lip Pigment in Rock With You | RRP: $28/£24

I've recommended this liquid lipstick to countless friends, and each time they come back to me with, "whoa, you weren't joking". The gold standard of long-lasting lipstick, this will not budge until you want it to. This deep mulberry shade is the most gorgeous autumnal tone.

19. Frosted berry

Catherine Zeta-Jones wearing fall makeup looks, included frosted raspberry lips

Catherine Zeta-Jones

(Image credit: Getty Images)

It's not just frosted eyeshadow that’s trending, frosted lips are a must-try this season, too. Glossy lips with a touch of metallic shimmer will take your look from daytime to disco in no time. To recreate this look, apply pearlescent lipstick all over lips before layering with a high-shine gloss. 

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Bobbi Brown Real Nudes Collection Crushed Oil-Infused Gloss Shimmer, Bare Sparkle | RRP: $32/£22

You could wear this shimmery lip gloss on its own, or you could wear it over your favorite matte lipstick to transform the finish. It's the prettiest, barely-there pink.

20. In The navy

Lupita Nyong'o wearing fall makeup looks, including navy eyeshadow

Lupita Nyong'o

(Image credit: Getty Images)

If berries and bronzes don't float your boat, try something different with a navy eye look. It's a grown-up take on bright eyeshadow looks, and looks so gorgeous with Lupita's deep complexion and warmer undertones. Color shy? "Tap into this trend with a slick of navy blue liner along the lash line," says Connolly. 

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Giorgio Armani Eye Tint Liquid Eyeshadow in Prussian Blue | RRP: $30/28

A great match for Lupita's periwinkle blue, this liquid formula glides on and gives a great color payoff. You can dab on with the applicator and blend with your fingers, or use a small shadow brush to create more intricate looks.

21. Full-blown pinks

Mindy Kaling wearing one of the key fall makeup looks, including matching pink eyeshadow and lips

Mindy Kaling

(Image credit: Getty Images)

We’re all a bit pink-obsessed over here, thanks to the Barbiecore trend that’s taken over our social media feeds. If you're wondering what is Barbiecore, it's about embracing an all-pink look in a grown-up way, as Mindy has here. Pink eyeshadow makes hazel eyes pop, and it's perfectly matched with that deep raspberry lipstick. Get this lip look with a slightly deeper shade of lip liner, blended with a small brush to create subtle graduation of color. 

Charlotte Tilbury Instant Eye Palette in Pillow Talk | RRP: $75/£60

Charlotte Tilbury Instant Eye Palette in Pillow Talk | RRP: $75/£60

Yes, Charlotte Tilbury's eyeshadow palettes are expensive, but if you're already plotting your Christmas gift list (a woman after my own heart), then this is one of the best beauty gift ideas to top your list. Highly pigmented, gorgeous, flattering shades - word on the street is that Santa has these on back-order. 

22. Brighened up blush

Helen Mirren wearing fall makeup looks, including bright blush

Helen Mirren

(Image credit: Getty Images)

A good blusher can work wonders - helping your complexion look fresher and adding a bit of zing to gloomier fall mornings. Helen loves a bright pop of color on her cheeks using one of the best cream blushers, which are especially flattering on dryer skin types. Dab on with your fingertips, concentrating on the apples of your cheeks, to give your face an instant zhuzh. 

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Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush | RRP: $20/£19

This blush went viral this year, and for good reason - it's just so good. You only need the tiniest dab for full-blown color (we're serious, start off very minimally) It also blends out beautifully, either with your fingers or with a brush. A surprisingly brilliant buy from Selena Gomez's makeup range.

23. Bring on Brusher

Zooey Deschanel wearing fall makeup looks, including warm blusher

Zooey Deschanel

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Brusher, the act of combining your bronzer and your blusher for a warmer, bolder cheek look, comes into its own in the fall. It's a great way of warming up your complexion without looking too bronzed - while also lifting your cheekbones. “Apply your blush after bronzer,” says Connolly, “as bronzer defines your cheekbones while the blush is the icing on the cake.” As for texture, Connolly recommends applying cream products on top of powder products to avoid any caking. 

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Kiko Blush and Bronzer Palette | RRP: $18.99/£15.99

A brilliant, affordable palette, this handy buy is great for travel, and the two shades are pleasingly large so you know this will last you a good long while. Blend a large cheek brush in both shades to get Zooey's effect. It's available in three depths so there's something to suit all.

Rhiannon Derbyshire
Senior Beauty Editor

Rhiannon Derbyshire is the Senior Beauty Editor for Woman & Home and other publications. 

She started interning for glossy magazines while working alongside her Fashion Journalism degree. There, she was lured to the beauty desk, seduced by matte lipsticks, posh shampoos, and every skincare product imaginable. 10+ years into her career, she can confidently tell you why the best mascaras are always high street, and why SPF is a non-negotiable all year round. Ask her about her curly hair routine, skincare minimalism, and how to find the exact right red lipstick

With contributions from