You need a latte. To go! Because this tidal beauty wave cresting over social media, with its beautiful palette of bronzes, warm milky shades and nudes is coming your way now. According to many makeup artists, the style’s allure lies in its accessibility and ease of application—no harsh lines but just a wash of gentle hues applied all over, melting into a late summer tan.
Even better, the look complements any skin tone, with a simple adjustment of shades to suit different complexions. Yes, the latte makeup vibe is for all looks, ages, and genders. And no complicated makeup skills (i.e. contouring) are needed, either. Meaning anyone can attain the look, with a minimal amount of products, too — great in this inflation era. Just stick to bronzers, light foundations and warm highlighters.
Whether you embrace the role of a coquette princess or a quiet luxury connoisseur, one thing is certain: Latte makeup offers the ultimate bronzed god/dess look because it’s all about effortless ease that can withstand — intact — the sweltering summer heat and even the occasional downpour, from that first morning creamy coffee to the last midnight cocktail.
Why is it trending? Again, like most new fashion, beauty and lifestyle trends, it all started on TikTok — duh — where it has a whopping 20.6 million views and counting, by the second. Apparently, it was a TikTok creator (Rachel Rigler) who coined the name at the beginning of summer 2023. And, since, the look has been seen on the most followed and powerful celebs like, of course, Hailey Beiber.
How to Create the Latte Look
Think nude but richer. That’s the overarching theme of this easy makeup look: Very light, transparent and luminous. So start with a minimal-coverage base applied to the face, avoiding the nose to create the illusion that you’re wearing close to nothing. Blend it over the cheekbone for a smooth, seamless look. And then add glistening eyeshadow, glowing bronzer, and sheer, glossy brown tint for lips. Finish by using an eyelash curler and one coat of mascara. Dish the super long lashes for now. It’s about looking your natural best.
The magic of the latte look lies in its unique undertones. By choosing bronzers and brown shades with caramel, yellow, and olive tones, rather than the typical warm orange and red pigments found in regular bronzed and brown tones, you’re enhancing skin’s natural tones. And although blush is having a moment right now, this trend is all about shades of brown, so no pink tones. Again, think summer tan. And, above all, have fun and feel beautiful!
Some Products to Try
Sheer Skin Tint, from Summer Fridays: This lightweight skin tint adds a touch of sheer buildable colour — providing a more even, healthy appearance while infusing skin with light hydration. Its weightless, fluid formula layers beautifully for sheer-to-light coverage with a natural finish in flexible shades.
Matte Bronzer Cream Bronzer Stick, from Milk Makeup: Wear this shimmer-free formula where the sun would naturally hit your face for an instant sun-kissed look. The creamy formula builds seamlessly and blends in easily, so you can swipe, blend, and go—no mirror required. Doubles as an eyeshadow, lip colour and body bronzer. Wow, we love that!
Lip Butter Balm Brown Sugar, from Summer Fridays: This silky, 100% vegan lip balm hydrates and soothes in seconds while providing just a touch of sheer, nude colour. Butter up on the go for instant moisture, colour and shine—and a hint of brown sugar sweetness.
