Branch out beyond tried and true shades and partake in a fresh harvest of autumnal hues. As captured in our latest issue, ripe plums, denim blues and steely metallics bleed beyond the lines as we tap Swedish makeup artist Linda Gradin to make a case for the trendiest makeup colours to wear this autumn
Cranberry red
Go all in on smokey eyes and cranberry-coloured lipstick. “This season is all about bold lips in dark hues,” says Swedish makeup artist Linda Gradin – the creative forces behind our latest issue's beauty editorial exploring the most covetable colours to include in our autumnal makeup looks. “Think soft, oversized, elegant.”
Denim blue
Once in a blue moon, we find ourselves coveting something cerulean, indigo or ultramarine in our makeup bags. “It is a beautiful colour when playing around with a graphic punk look," says Gradin. If angular, temple-grazing eyeshadow or denim lipstick isn't up your alley, a blurred-out oceanic eyeliner and blue mascara is a more wearable way to sport this trend.
Petunia pink
Colour us pink to see that this sweet shade will help us blush through the season. "Pink is a big autumn trend,” says Gradin. “Whether you choose to wear it as a cool liner or a soft, whimsicalall-over moment, you’ll feel romantic and fresh-faced."
Sparkling silver
The tin-man makes an unexpected cameo on our autumn mood board. We continue to reach for copper and gold in our autumnal beauty cupboards, but surpassingly enough, silver has emerged as a must-try shade this season. Whether you’re opting for a soft, shimmery eyelid or a bold, metallic lip, silver brightens your face, making it perfect for when you want to feel especially radiant.
Neon yellow
Neon yellow is a high-voltage twist for the upcoming months, adding an electrifying edge to your beauty routine. “Think electro-pop," advises Gradin. The key to pulling off neon yellow is balance. For those new to this bold hue, start small – try a neon yellow eyeliner or a subtle touch of yellow in the inner corners of your eyes. If you're feeling more adventurous, go for a full neon lid or even combine it with other neon shades for a fun, graphic look.
High-shine pink
It’s 'high-shine' to embrace a lip topper this Autumn. Be it icy metallics or thick gloss, it is the best way to pump up your chosen Pantone. Our colour of choice to boost with some tactile texture? The aforementioned petunia pink. This trend taps into the nostalgic glamour of the '70s and '80s while keeping it contemporary. The reflective, high-shine finish captures light beautifully, making your features stand out with a luminous glow. For a subtle approach, a touch of metallic pink highlighter on your cheekbones or the inner corners of your eyes can create a beautiful, ethereal effect.
Out-of-bounds orange
Another way to up the ante of your autumnal beauty is to colour outside of the lines. "Messy, textured eyeshadow is a cool trend,” says Gradin. Slightly unkempt, it’s perfect for those who struggle to wake-up after the clocks change. The best colour to co-opt for this messy application? Orange. And if you prefer to live life by the rulebook, we'd opt for a more demure take on the trend with an orange-tinted lipgloss.
Purple plum
When it comes to picking the perfect colour for autumn, plum comes out supreme. Utterly regal, we prefer our purple pigment with a chromatic effect. Especially ahead of the holiday season, when the sight of icy monochrome metallics will have us sparkling and party-ready. After all, Gradin notes that she’s partial to a shimmering finish.