Top 6 Summer Beauty Trends for 2023

Ok, it’s only May—but we’re already gearing up for summer here at Upkeep. And that means summer beauty trends, too. We’ve combed through the trend reports and compiled the ones we saw the most frequently—and think are the most glam or fun. Here’s what we’ll be wearing on our faces as the temps rise. 

‍

Mary Philipps Contour or "underpainting"

It’s been viral on TikTok for months, and with good reason! This technique, made famous by celebrity makeup artist Mary Philipps and seen on Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber, involves using concealer and contour underneath foundation. This gives your facial contour a much more blended, seamless, and natural look. Cream contours and concealers work best for this. 

Smokey eyes

This trend is more often seen in fall and winter, so it might seem random to wear it in summer. But that’s also what makes it feel cool and fresh! Lots of variations of black smokey eyes were seen on runways, but we recommend a gray or brown color scheme for a softer look. The trick here is to avoid harsh lines or too many shadow colors; think effortless, breezy, a little bit “rock chick,” and you’re on your way. 

‍

To get this look, tight line your upper lashes with a gray pencil. Then draw the gray pencil over the upper and lower lash line, feathering the edges with an angle brush to keep things soft. finish with a sheer wash of shimmery gray eyeshadow over the eyelid (apply with your finger for even more softness) and a slick of black mascara for a smokey eye that will still look good in the summer heat. 

Sculpted bright blush

This trend is influenced by the 80s, when blush reigned supreme. (Bronzer? We didn’t know her). it’s also an update on the “I’m Cold” look from TikTok last winter. Apply multiple blush shades on your cheekbone (not the apple) and temple, starting with a lighter color, then a brighter color in the center for more impact. Powder and cream blushes will both work for this trend. It adds theatrical glam to your going out look. Pair with an LBD and fluffy curls or sleek bun. Wanting to play up the eighties-ness of it all? Just add big, sparkly earrings and metallic lamé accessories. 

Pastel eyeshadow and/or eyeliner

Popularized by celeb makeup artist Katie Jane Hughes, this trend is all about adding a wash of light, matte color to the eyes, while keeping the rest of the face clean and fresh. Cream shadows work really well for this, and you can also layer a powder shadow on top to make it last longer. We love pastel blue, lilac, or creamsicle orange. Another variation of this trend is pastel eyeliner, which instantly lifts and brightens the eye in a more subtle way. 

Disco vibes

This one’s for all of you babes who will be partying in glam locales like Miami. Think glitter, shimmer, and face gems. All-out glamour, don’t hold back! If you’re going shimmery on eyes, lips, and cheeks, keep your foundation and concealer sheer and light. This helps you look modern, not heavy. 

‍

Frosted lips

This is a more subtle version of the ‘disco’ trend. Think early 2000s, Tom Ford-era Gucci, party-girl-at-Cannes. Adding some shimmer–whether in lipstick or gloss form–doesn’t just make your lips sparkle, it can also make them look fuller. The key to doing this trend right? Make sure to use lip liner a shade or two darker than your lip color to maintain dimension. 

‍