9 Classic Summer Makeup Looks to Master

From casual to smoldering, from basic dewy to extra smokey, here are 9 timeless, classic summer makeup looks that every girl needs to try!

Hey smoldering summer babes! Summer – the sun the lemonade the watermelons – it’s the perfect time to get those makeup products out that have been hiding in your vanity case and experiment a little.

But what look to go for?

Timeless Summer Makeup Ideas

I always say there should be a few go-to beauty looks that you can wear when you don’t know what to wear. So if you’re in the mood for putting on some makeup, I’ve come up with a FULL lookbook of 9 shades that you can master. Got some free time on your hands? Just practice these cool summer makeup looks so you’re super-fast when you need to actually go somewhere! There’s something for every occasion here. This is the holiday homework to do when you’re free!

Let’s go!

1. Rosy and Glowy Look

Ah, the rosy and glowy soft summer makeup look! It’s like capturing the essence of sun-kissed radiance and effortless beauty. Just imagine yourself with a dewy complexion, flushed cheeks, and a hint of shimmer that screams summer goddess. And guess what? You’re not alone in wanting this look. Celebrities like Gigi Hadid, Blake Lively, and Priyanka Chopra are often spotted rocking this fresh and luminous style. It’s the go-to makeup choice for birthday parties, BBQ parties, or even a casual day out with friends. So here are some tips on how to achieve this coveted summer look!

Tip 1: Start with a healthy skincare routine. A glowing complexion is the foundation for any rosy and glowy makeup. Make sure to cleanse, moisturize, and protect your skin with SPF before diving into the makeup process.

Tip 2: Opt for a lightweight, dewy foundation or BB cream. This will give you that natural, lit-from-within glow. Apply it with a damp beauty blender for a seamless finish.

Tip 3: Time to add some color! Sweep a rosy blush on the apples of your cheeks. The cool summer blush creates that flushed, youthful look. Blend it out towards your temples.

Tip 4: Highlight, highlight, highlight! Apply a luminous highlighter on the high points of your face – the cheekbones, bridge of the nose, and cupid’s bow.

Tip 5: Don’t forget the eyes. Keep it simple with a wash of shimmery neutral eyeshadow. You can also add a winged eyeliner, keep it subtle with brown eyeliner. Add a touch of mascara to define your lashes and open up your eyes.

Tip 6: Complete the look with a glossy lip. Swipe on a sheer, rosy lip color or opt for a tinted lip balm to keep your pout hydrated and fresh.

Remember, the key to the rosy and glowy summer makeup look is to keep it light and natural. Embrace your skin’s natural radiance and enhance it with subtle pops of color and luminosity. So go ahead, rock this look at outdoor parties, beach vacations, or even during your daily summer adventures.

2. Dewy No Makeup Makeup Look

Of course, how can we forget the no-makeup makeup look! It’s all about that effortless, natural beauty that leaves people wondering, “Is she even wearing makeup?” Celebrities like Deepika Padukone, Gigi Hadid, and Zendaya are known for embracing this minimalistic approach to summer makeup. It’s perfect for those hot and sunny days when you want to let your skin breathe and still look fabulous. So here’s how to achieve this fresh yet flawless look!

Tip 1: Start with a clean canvas. A good skincare routine is essential for a no-makeup makeup look. Be sure to scrub out any dry skin. Cleanse, tone, and moisturize your skin to create a smooth and hydrated base. Ideally this should minimize the need for makeup.

Tip 2: Use a lightweight tinted moisturizer or a BB cream with sheer coverage to even out your skin tone while still allowing your natural beauty to shine through. Use your fingers or a damp sponge.

Tip 3: Conceal only where needed. Dab a little concealer on any areas that require extra coverage, like under-eye circles or blemishes. Blend it gently with your fingers for a natural look.

Tip 4: Emphasize your brows. Well-groomed brows frame the face and give a polished look. Use a brow pencil or powder to fill in any sparse areas and brush them upward for a feathery effect.

Tip 5: Add a hint of color to your cheeks. Opt for a cream blush in a natural, rosy shade. Smile and apply it on the apples of your cheeks, blending it out towards your temples for a subtle flush.

Tip 6: Define your lashes with only one coat of mascara (optional). Keep it natural and clump-free.

Tip 7: Hydrate your lips. Apply a moisturizing lip balm or a tinted lip balm in a shade close to your natural lip color.

The no-makeup makeup look is perfect for casual outings, picnics, brunches, or any occasion when you want to look effortlessly beautiful and show off the carefree vibes of summer!

3. The Summer Smokey Eye

For occasions where you need to add a touch of mystery and allure, you need smokey eyes. This sultry makeup look can create an unforgettable impression. Whether you’re going out to a club, a romantic date night, or even a music festival, this look will have you oozing confidence and sexiness.

Here’s how:

Tip 1: Prime your face and those lids. Apply an eyeshadow primer to create a smooth canvas and ensure your eyeshadow stays in place all day (or night!) long.

Tip 2: Choose your colors wisely. Opt for a combination of matte and shimmery shades in neutral tones. I recommend charcoal, bronze, or deep brown to create depth and intensity.

Tip 3: Start with the lightest shade. Apply the lightest eyeshadow color near the inner corner of your eye.

Tip 4: Build up the drama. Layer on darker eyeshadow gradually, building up the intensity as you move towards the center of the lid. Use a blending brush to create a soft gradient. Finally add the darkest color on the outer corners, focusing on the crease. Remember to blend, blend, blend for that seamless transition.

Tip 5: Highlight your inner corner. Add a touch of shimmery or light eyeshadow to make your eyes pop.

Tip 6: Don’t forget the lower lash line. Apply a smudge of the darkest eyeshadow or a pencil liner along your lower lash line. This will enhance the smokey effect.

Tip 7: Finish with killer lashes. Apply a volumizing mascara to your upper and lower lashes, making them look fuller and more dramatic. If you want even more oomph, consider adding some false lashes for that extra wow factor.

Tip 8: Oh, and of course let’s add some lip color. I recommend going for a light lip shade to keep the focus on your sultry gaze. So choose something like blush pink, skin color or peachy pink.

Now you’re ready to rock that smokey eye like a true queen. Whether you’re strutting your stuff at a rooftop party, enjoying a night out on the town, this look will be perf. So, get your blending game on point, and prepare to smolder and slay all summer long!

4. Bronze Goddess Look

Who doesn’t wanna look like a sun-kissed goddess, as if you just got back from a luxe vacation with a nice bronze tan? This makeup look is a favorite of many celebrities, including JLo, Beyoncé, and Billie Eilish.

The bronze goddess look is all about capturing that golden warmth and radiance, making it ideal for summer music festivals, outdoor gatherings, and glamorous evening soirées. Ready to embrace your inner bronze goddess? Here’s how:

Tip 1: Start with a flawless base. Prep your skin with a dewy foundation for that fresh-faced summer glow. Don’t forget to apply a sunscreen with SPF to protect your skin.

Tip 2: Warm up your complexion. Use a bronzer that matches your skin tone to add warmth and dimension to your face. Apply it along the hollows of your cheeks, temples, and jawline for that sun-kissed effect. Blend it out seamlessly.

Tip 3: Glow from within. Apply a liquid or cream highlighter on the high points of your face, such as your cheekbones, bridge of your nose, and cupid’s bow. This will give you that lit-from-within, goddess-like radiance.

Tip 4: Embrace the bronze eyeshadow. Opt for warm, earthy tones like copper, gold, and bronze on your eyelids. Blend them out to create a soft, smoky effect. Don’t be afraid to add a pop of shimmer on the center of your lids for that extra glam factor.

Tip 5: Define those eyes. Line your upper lash line with a brown or bronze eyeliner to add depth and intensity. Smudge it out slightly for a sultry and effortless look.

Tip 6: Amp up the lashes. Apply a lengthening and volumizing mascara to your upper and lower lashes. Flutter those lashes, babe!

Tip 7: For lips, ppt for warm-toned nude or light brown lip color to complement the overall bronze goddess look. Choose a lip gloss or a satin finish lipstick for that juicy pout.

Now you’re ready to enjoy a sunset cocktail and shine brighter than the summer sun itself!

5. The Peach Look

Summer is all about exploring pastels, and what says summery pastel more than peach? So add a juicy pop of color to your makeup routine, and embrace the peachy vibes of the season. This fresh and vibrant style is loved by celebrities like Blake Lively, Kareena Kapoor, Gigi Hadid and Lily Collins. 

The peach summer makeup look is perfect for a beach party, a casual brunch, or even a summer wedding. So, let’s dive into the world of peaches and cream and get you glowing!

Tip 1: Prep your canvas. Start with a smooth and hydrated base and a primer that suits your skin type. This will ensure your makeup goes on flawlessly and stays put throughout the day.

Tip 2: Lay the foundation. Choose a dewy foundation or a tinted moisturizer that matches your skin tone. Apply it evenly, blending it with a beauty sponge or a brush for a natural and luminous finish.

Tip 3: Add a touch of sunshine. Reach for a peach-toned blush or bronzer and lightly dust it on the apples of your cheeks and along your temples. This will give your complexion a healthy, sun-kissed glow.

Tip 4: Pop those peepers. Swipe a peachy eyeshadow shade across your eyelids. Or add a touch of shimmer on the center of your lids.

Tip 5: Define those lashes. Apply a coat or two of lengthening mascara to your upper and lower lashes.

Tip 6: Peachy pout perfection. Complete your look with a swipe of peachy lipstick or lip gloss for a juicy, irresistible finish.

Now you’re ready to turn heads and be the peach of the summer!

6. The Classic Red Lip with Winged Eyeliner

If you got a special occasion coming up, you totes gotta unleash your inner femme fatale and rock a classic red lip. Of course, to create the whole pinup look, go for winged eyeliner with it. This iconic look has been adored by celebrities like Taylor Swift, Bella Hadid, and Scarlett Johansson. It’s time to channel your inner Old Hollywood glamour and make heads turn!

The classic red lip with winged eyeliner is a timeless beauty statement that can work for special dates like anniversary or a fancy night out on the town. This look exudes confidence and a touch of vintage charm.So here’s how to achieve this stunning look:

Tip 1: Start with a flawless canvas; prep your face by moisturizing your skin. Apply a foundation that ensures an even complexion.

Tip 2: Wing it out. Use a jet-black liquid eyeliner to create a precise and sharp winged shape at the outer corner of your eyes. Take it from me, perfecting that flick may take some practice, but don’t worry, you’ll get the hang of it! Of course, you can even skip this step and create this look without eyeliner!

Tip 3: Lash it up. Apply a coat or two of volumizing mascara to both your upper and lower lashes. If you want to take it up a notch, you can also opt for a pair of natural-looking false lashes for that extra va-va-voom effect.

Tip 4: Pucker up in red. Choose a classic red lipstick shade that complements your skin tone. Whether you prefer a bold, true red or a deeper, sultry red, the key is to find a shade that makes you feel confident. Use a lip liner first, then apply the lipstick with precision, using a lip brush or directly from the bullet.

Tip 5: Seal the deal. To ensure your lipstick stays in place all day or night, gently blot your lips with a tissue, and then apply a thin layer of translucent powder. This will set the lipstick and make it long-lasting.

From cocktail parties to fancy dinners, or simply for adding a touch of elegance to your everyday look, this iconic combination will make you feel like a true bombshell.

7. Colored Eyeshadow + Neutral Lip

Bold and bright for the summer – get ready to unleash your creativity because now we’re talking about colored eyeshadow!

Celebrities like Lily Collins, Selena Gomez, and Zendaya are no strangers to rocking bold and vibrant eyeshadow looks. From electric blues to vibrant purples, they know how to make their eyes pop. Colored eyeshadow is perfect for college parties, garden parties and vacation days too.

Now, let’s dive into some tips on how to achieve a stunning colored eyeshadow look:

Tip 1: Prime time. Apply an eyeshadow primer or a concealer to your eyelids to create a smooth base and make the colors pop. This step will also help your eyeshadow stay in place all day long.

Tip 2: Select a color palette that complements your eye color and skin tone. For example, if you have brown eyes, shades of purple or bronze can enhance your natural beauty. Blue eyes can stand out with warm tones like copper or gold, while green eyes can dazzle with shades of pink or mauve. Dark brown or black eyes work well with blue, or green. Play around and experiment with different color combinations to find what works best for you! I recommend going for a single color all over, or a hint of color just in the inner corners.

Tip 3: Blend like a boss. Use a fluffy blending brush to prevent any harsh lines and create a beautiful gradient effect. Remember, blending is the key to achieving a professional-looking eyeshadow application!

Tip 4: Add dimension. To add depth to your look, use a slightly darker shade in the crease of your eyelid. This will create dimension and make your eyes appear more defined. Don’t forget to blend it out for a seamless finish!

Tip 5: Don’t forget the inner corner. Apply a pop of a lighter or shimmery shade to the inner corner of your eyes. This will brighten up your eyes and make them appear more awake and refreshed.

Tip 6: Finish with mascara. Apply a coat or two of mascara to your lashes to complete the look. The mascara will enhance your lashes and frame your eyes, making them the center of attention.

Whether you’re hitting the dance floor, attending a colorful summer party, this makeup look will make you shine. So, grab your favorite eyeshadow palette, and paint your eyes with a burst of color. It’s time to step out of your comfort zone and show the world your true colors!

8. Colored Eyepencil Look

Summer is THE time to add a pop of color to your eyes. And while eyeshadow makes too much of an impact, if you wanna keep it subtle but cute, go for vibrant eyeliner. Colored eye pencil makeup looks are a fave of Rihanna, Janelle Monáe, and Lucy Hale. 

Perfect for both daytime and evening events, colored eyeliner adds a playful and youthful touch to your makeup, making it ideal for music festivals, parties, just a casual day, or for your first date.

Tip 1: Colored eye pencils come in a variety of shades, so pick colors that complement you. If you have brown eyes, try shades of bronze or deep greens. Blue eyes can pop with vibrant shades of turquoise or navy blue, while green eyes can sparkle with emerald or purple hues.

Tip 2: Prime your lids. Before applying the colored eye pencil, use an eyeshadow primer or a bit of concealer to create a smooth base. This will help the pencil glide on effortlessly and make the color more vibrant.

Tip 3: Get precise. Use short, controlled strokes to apply the colored eye pencil along your lash line or waterline. Start from the inner corner and work your way outward. This technique allows you to have better control and achieve a more precise application.

Tip 4: Blend it out (optional). If you want a softer look, use a smudging brush or your finger to gently blend the colored pencil for a smoky effect or a lived-in look.

Tip 5: Colored eye pencils offer endless opportunities for creativity. You can create a classic winged liner, a smudged-out smoky look, or even experiment with graphic liner designs. Let your imagination run wild!

Tip 6: Balance the rest of your makeup. Since the colored eye pencil is the star of the show, keep the rest of your makeup more neutral and subdued. Opt for a hint of blush, and a nude lip to let your eyes take center stage.

So rock a fabulous colored eye pencil look like a pro; grab your favorite shades, channel your inner artist, and let your eyes do the talking.

9. Copper Eyeshadow + Rust Lip

If you’re looking to add some sizzle to your summer makeup routine, rock that stunning copper eyeshadow look. Occassions like a fancy date night, or a summer wedding are perfect for flaunting this gorgeous, warm-toned shade.

First things first, let’s talk about the occasions where this look will make you the ultimate summer goddess. Picture yourself at a rooftop party, a beach bonfire, or a sultry summer date night. Whether you’re going for a boho-chic vibe or a glamorous evening look, copper has got your back!

Here’s how to make those eyes pop:

Tip 1: Prime your eyelids so that your eyeshadow stays in place and pops with intensity.

Tip 2: Choose the right shade of copper. Copper comes in various undertones, ranging from reddish to more golden hues. Experiment with different shades before buying to find the one that complements your skin tone and eye color.

Tip 3: Build up the color. Start by applying a light wash of copper eyeshadow all over your lids. Then, gradually intensify the color by layering it. Add some brown on the outer corners and crease for depth and dimension.

Tip 4: Blend, blend, blend! Use a fluffy blending brush to soften any harsh lines and create a seamless transition between colors. Remember, we want that effortless, sun-kissed effect!

Tip 5: Highlight the inner corners. Add a touch of shimmer or a lighter, champagne-colored eyeshadow to the inner corners of your eyes. This will make your eyes appear brighter and more awake.

Tip 6: Define with eyeliner. Line your upper lash line with a brown or black eyeliner to define your eyes. Keep it subtle for a daytime look or amp it up with a winged liner for a more dramatic effect.

Tip 7: Don’t forget mascara! The extra volume and length will make your eyes pop against that stunning copper backdrop.

So, grab your favorite copper shade, and shine brighter than the summer sun!

So I hope these timeless and classic summer makeup looks will give you enough inspo to spend the weekend practicing. And of course, even master one until your next get-together or date! So ar you ready to turn heads and exude that effortless summer glam?

If you try any of these looks, I’d love to check them out! So don’t forget to tag me in your IG pic  @shilpaahujadotcom!

Muaah!

Also read:

Summer Nail Colors: 9 Prettiest Nail Polish Colors to Celebrate the Sunny Season!