The Power of Matte and Velvet
Think of matte as the anchor for adventurous color. A matte finish absorbs light, providing a flat, saturated, and velvety look that brings a sense of sophistication and structure. On the runways, you'll often see bold colors executed in matte textures
to make them more grounded and wearable. For instance, the deep oxblood and burgundy lips seen in recent Fall/Winter collections gain their power from a rich, non-reflective finish that feels both modern and timeless. Similarly, a graphic cat-eye in a surprising color like cobalt or forest green feels sharp and intentional with a matte finish. This texture is perfect for defining features, like contouring a cheekbone or creating depth in the crease of an eye, because it doesn't reflect light and create distracting shine. It’s a finish that says “deliberate” and offers impressive longevity, making it a go-to for a look that needs to last. At Ralph Lauren's Spring/Summer 2027 show, velvet-matte eyeshadows in sable and chocolate tones added a rich intensity that melted into the lashline.
The Luminous Allure of Satin and Gloss
If matte is the anchor, satin and gloss are the life of the party. These finishes reflect light, giving skin, lips, and even eyelids a juicy, dimensional, and youthful appearance. A satin finish offers a subtle, healthy sheen—think of it as the midpoint between flat matte and high-shine gloss. It mimics the natural luminosity of healthy skin and is incredibly versatile for everyday wear. Glossy finishes take that reflection to the next level. Glossy lids, a recurring trend, can make eyes look wet and sultry. On lips, a high-shine gloss creates the illusion of fullness and adds a playful touch. While past seasons leaned heavily into matte, recent shows have seen a resurgence of glossy red lips and dewy, “satin skin” complexions, proving that a little shine can make a classic look feel fresh and new. It’s the perfect choice for adding vibrancy and preventing makeup from looking too heavy or flat.
The Drama of Metallics
When you want to make a statement, nothing delivers like a metallic finish. Infused with gold, silver, or bronze pearl, metallic makeup provides a foiled, almost molten-metal effect that commands attention. Unlike glitter, which is made of larger, distinct particles, a metallic finish offers a smoother, more seamless sheen. At the Sergio Hudson SS27 show, makeup artist Sir John used a metallic lid to create a dramatic eye look meant to empower the wearer. Metallics are brilliant for catching light and brightening the face, making them a favorite for highlighting the center of the eyelid or the inner corners of the eyes. A swipe of metallic shadow can instantly elevate a simple look, giving it an edgy or futuristic vibe. While a full metallic lip might feel daring, a touch dabbed onto the center of a matte lipstick can add dimension and a surprising twist.
The Playfulness of Shimmer and Glitter
Glitter and heavy shimmer are all about texture and celebration. These finishes are designed to catch and scatter light in a dazzling, multi-dimensional way. From the ethereal, glittery purple shadow Pat McGrath created for Anna Sui's SS27 show to the chunky glitter highlighter seen at other presentations, sparkle is a key tool for creating fantastical and fun runway moments. In real life, glitter is best used strategically. A sheer, shimmery wash across the eyelids can brighten and open up the eyes, while a fine glitter pressed over another eyeshadow can add an unexpected pop for an evening out. The key is placement. While a face “soaked in glitter” might work for the runway, a targeted application on the eyes or cheekbones allows you to participate in the trend without feeling overwhelmed.
