Classic Beauty Trends To Elevate Your Favourite Formal Outfits

Whether you’re attending a chic wedding or celebrating an important milestone, the right beauty look can take your formal attire from great to downright fabulous. The most popular beauty trends change with the seasons but some blend effortlessly with outfits repeatedly.

These looks offer a balance of sophistication and style while allowing your outfit to shine. Getting the perfect pairing of beauty and fashion can leave an outstanding lasting impression and here is how you can do it:

Fresh and Glowing Skin: The No-Makeup Makeup Look

There’s nothing quite like the ‘no-makeup’ makeup look to enhance your natural beauty while letting your formal attire take centre stage. This minimalist approach to makeup focuses on achieving fresh, glowing skin, making it the ultimate companion for intricate or detailed outfits.

First things first, you need a good, hydrating moisturiser to prep your skin and a radiance-boosting primer. Go for a lightweight foundation or tinted moisturiser that evens out your complexion without leaving it feeling heavy.

*Jennifer Connelly’s fresh base look creates an effortless look. Pic: @jennifer.connelly via instagram*

*ESPA Tri-Active Lift & Firm Moisturiser, £50* *keeps your skin feeling soft and hydrated.*

We love ESPA Tri-Active Lift & Firm Moisturiser, £50. A dab of cream blush on the cheeks and a nude lip gloss are all you need to complete this understated look.

Bold Lips: Statement Colours That Stand Out

When it comes to adding a touch of drama to your formal look, bold lips are your secret weapon. A rich, statement-making lip colour—whether a classic deep red, modern berry tone or even a punchy plum—instantly elevates your outfit. Bold lips are especially stunning when paired with minimalist gowns or monochrome formalwear.

To make your bold lip last through all-night events, look for long-lasting formulas that won’t smudge, even through a champagne toast.

*Rachel Weisz stuns on the red carpet with a classic lip. Pic: @valeriaferrariamakeup via instagram.*

*Get the look with* *YSL Rouge Pur Couture Lipstick £36*

Pairing your lip shade with the colour scheme of your dress can also create a cohesive and polished aesthetic. We love YSL Rouge Pur Couture Lipstick in R9, £36.

Sleek and Elegant Hairstyles: The Return of Polished Hair

The polished hair trend has made a serious comeback, bringing sleek and elegant styles to the forefront of formal beauty. Whether it’s a low bun, a sleek ponytail or straightened, glossy locks, these styles ooze sophistication and pair effortlessly with wedding guest dresses.

A sleek hairstyle draws attention to the neckline and details of your dress, making it perfect for strapless or off-shoulder gowns. To add a touch of personality, try incorporating hair accessories like embellished clips or bejewelled headbands. To get glassy hair we love GHD Dramatic Ending - Smooth & Finish Serum £18.95

*Jenna Coleman’s sleek style creates an elegant polished look. Pic @jenna_coleman* *via instagram*

*Get The Look with* *GHD Dramatic Ending - Smooth & Finish Serum £18.95*

Metallic Eyes: Subtle Shimmer for Added Glamour

A touch of shimmer on your eyes can be the perfect way to introduce a bit of glamour without going overboard. The trend of metallic eyeshadows in shades like gold, silver and bronze is ideal for evening events, adding just the right amount of sparkle to complement any formal ensemble.

You don’t want to overpower your outfit so you should balance the shimmer with other subtle makeup elements. Ciaté London Trend palette, £22 in Chocolate is a great investment for creating a subtle or dramatic look.