The Kohl Comeback
Eyeliner is getting a rebellious makeover. After seasons of sharp, precise wings, the Fall/Winter 2026 runways signalled a return to smudged, lived-in kohl. This isn't the heavy, multi-shadow smokey eye of the 2010s, but something more deliberate and
personal. Seen at shows like Vivienne Westwood and Givenchy, the look is achieved by pressing dark liner into the waterline and softly smudging it around the lashes. It’s a moodier, more romantic take on eye makeup that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly modern. Some brands are even focusing on under-eye liner for an intentionally unbalanced, on-the-go feel. The goal is to look imperfectly perfect, conveying a sense of lived-in luxury.
Grown-Up Glitter
Glitter and metallics are back, but with a sophisticated twist. This season’s sparkle is less about overt glamour and more about adding a touch of unexpected light. At Chanel, fine glitter and chrome extensions were woven through sleek French twists, while a light wash of shimmer graced the eyelids. On other runways, glitter appeared as a bold, single-note statement on the lid or as a subtle highlight on the cheekbones. In India, glitter and foil accents remain a strong trend for events, often paired with softer, glowing skin rather than a full face of heavy makeup. The key is using sparkle as an expressive accent, not an all-over theatrical effect.
The 'Skin Longevity' Movement
In skincare, the conversation has shifted from anti-aging to “skin longevity.” The 2026 approach is less about quick fixes and more about supporting the skin’s long-term health at a cellular level. This means focusing on strengthening the skin barrier, protecting against environmental stressors, and promoting resilience. As a result, there's a growing preference for gentle, hydrating ingredients like ceramides, peptides, and hyaluronic acid over harsh, aggressive actives. The trend also includes regenerative treatments and biostimulators that encourage the body to produce its own collagen, aiming for gradual, natural-looking improvements in skin quality.
Warm, Rich Tones for Hair and Lips
As the weather cools, hair color trends are leaning into richer, warmer dimensions. Shades like “bright cinnamon,” a warm, spicy brown with copper undertones, and “espresso brunette” are gaining popularity. For blondes, the look is a soft “maple” or buttery shade rather than bright, sun-kissed tones. This cozy vibe extends to makeup, where mocha, terracotta, and warm browns are replacing cool-toned neutrals on eyes and lips, a trend that is particularly flattering and popular for Indian skin tones. Berry tones are also having a major moment, seen in everything from blurred, chocolate-berry lips at Carven to flushed berry blush draped high on the cheekbones.
Modern Ayurveda and Ingredient Transparency
In India, one of the biggest beauty movements is the fusion of traditional ingredients with modern science. Brands are reframing heritage actives like amla, neem, and turmeric into clinically-backed formulations that address concerns like hyperpigmentation and pollution. This is happening alongside a boom in direct-to-consumer brands that prioritize ingredient transparency, educating consumers on actives like niacinamide, vitamin C, and alpha-arbutin. This has empowered shoppers to seek out products with specific, proven ingredients for their concerns, moving away from vague marketing claims toward evidence-based results.
