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Credit: Erstudiostok/Getty ImagesLatte makeup has taken the beauty world by storm, and it’s no surprise why. This look is a true standout—stunning, bold, yet surprisingly simple to achieve and adaptable for all skin tones. We consulted top experts to break down the essence of latte makeup and provide their top tips for mastering this must-try trend.
What is Latte Makeup?
“Latte makeup focuses on creating a stunning, sun-kissed effect on the skin, reminiscent of the rich, inviting tone of a latte,” says renowned makeup artist Rebecca Restrepo. It involves blending various brown tones, along with tan and golden hues, to add depth and warmth to the complexion, she notes. This trend is perfect for any season but feels particularly fitting for the current moment.
“Bronzed, radiant skin never goes out of fashion, but it’s especially popular in the summer when everyone craves that fresh, vacation-ready glow,” Restrepo explains. Another advantage? Brown tones are incredibly versatile, complementing any outfit or style, making them ideal for both everyday wear and special events, according to celebrity makeup artist Tobi Henney. The look is also universally appealing; with browns available in cool, warm, and varying depths, there’s a shade for everyone to achieve the latte makeup effect, she adds.
How to Create a Latte Makeup Look
Achieving the latte makeup look hinges on selecting the perfect bronzed shades to emulate a summer glow. Follow these steps for a seamless application.
Stick with your regular foundation or skin tint.
Latte makeup primarily focuses on the shades applied to your cheeks, lips, and eyes, emphasizes Henney, so there’s no need to stress over foundation; your usual choice will work perfectly. However, if you prefer a lighter feel, Restrepo suggests using sheer skin tints. These provide enough coverage to smooth your complexion and hide blemishes while letting your natural skin shine through, she explains.
Break out the bronzer.
“Apply bronzer to the parts of your face and chest that the sun would naturally touch: your cheeks, nose bridge, forehead, and décolletage,” she adds. A great option is Benefit Cosmetics Hoola Bronzer, a favorite of Henney’s, praised for its matte finish and wide range of shades.
Add glow with blush.
Layer blush on top of the bronzer, focusing on the apples of your cheeks. Instead of traditional pink hues, opt for nude shades with brown, olive, tan, or yellow undertones, recommends Restrepo.
Decide your latte eye makeup style.
When it comes to your eyes, there are multiple approaches. If you prefer simplicity, Henney recommends using the same bronzer across your eyelid, blending it into the crease to add depth and define your eye shape. For a more dramatic effect, try combining brown and nude shades for a smokey eye; opt for matte finishes and highlight the inner corners and brow bone with a light, shimmery nude for added impact, advises Restrepo.
Go neutral with your lip color.
Your lip color should also lean toward nude. “Latte makeup revolves around neutral brown tones, so a nude lip perfectly complements this cohesive look,” Henney explains. For the finishing touch, apply a clear gloss. The glossy effect will enhance your lips and tie the entire look together, Restrepo adds.
Does Latte Makeup Work for All Skin Tones?
Absolutely—simply adjust the shades and undertones of the products you select. Henney recommends selecting eye and cheek products that are two to three shades deeper than your natural skin tone. For fair skin, opt for beige, tan, or light caramel hues; medium skin tones can explore darker caramel, medium brown, or olive shades; while deeper complexions should consider dark brown and rich caramel tones, suggests Restrepo.
