The Espresso Makeup Is The Minimalist Beauty Trend You Need

Espresso makeup has arrived, bringing a moodier, bolder twist to the minimalist beauty craze we’ve come to adore. Following the warm, sunlit vibes of latte makeup, this trend serves up a darker, richer aesthetic—perfect for those who like their coffee (and their style) on the intense side. Coined by TikTok influencer Danielle Marcan, espresso makeup has been aptly described as the “grunge sister of latte makeup.” The look draws inspiration from the deep, velvety tones of a freshly brewed espresso, incorporating rich coffee hues and neutral shades for a sultry, understated glam.

Espresso makeup celebrates natural beauty with a bold twist, embracing warm, moody, and earthy hues that exude elegance and sophistication. This look leans into darker, smoky shades, offering a sultry charm that complements all skin tones and suits any occasion. Its versatility makes it equally perfect for daytime refinement or evening allure.

Whether you’re just beginning your makeup journey or you’re a seasoned artist, achieving the espresso makeup look is refreshingly simple. Here’s your ultimate guide to mastering this trend effortlessly, bringing out your natural beauty with rich coffee-inspired tones that make a lasting impression.

Check Out How To Nail the Espresso Makeup Trend Like A Pro…

Here’s a simple guide to nailing the espresso makeup trend like a pro:

#1. Prep your Skin

A flawless foundation starts with the right skin prep. Begin by cleansing your face with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities, then follow up with a hydrating moisturizer to lock in moisture. Next, use a lightweight primer to create a smooth, even base, ensuring your makeup lasts all day. Opt for an illuminating primer for a soft, glowing finish, or a mattifying one if you prefer an oil-free look.

#2. Create A Natural Base

For a fresh, dewy base, choose a light to medium coverage foundation or a tinted moisturizer that perfectly matches your skin tone. Blend it well using a beauty sponge or brush for an airbrushed effect. Then, apply concealer under your eyes and to any blemishes for a flawless, seamless finish. Set the T-zone with a translucent powder, leaving the rest of your face glowing and natural.

#3. Sculpt with Technique

The essence of espresso makeup lies in soft, subtle contouring with warm, earthy undertones. Lightly sculpt your cheekbones, jawline, and nose using a matte bronzer or a cool-toned contour stick. Apply a neutral or warm-toned blush in shades like peach, terracotta, or muted rose to the apples of your cheeks, blending upwards for a lifted effect. Finally, add a touch of champagne or gold highlighter to the high points of your face—cheekbones, brow bones, and the bridge of your nose—for a delicate glow.

#4. Pop the Eyes

For a deep, smoky look, focus on neutral shades that add dimension to your eyes. Opt for a palette with coffee-inspired tones like caramel, mocha, and rich chocolate. Start by applying a light shade all over your eyelid to create a soft base, then deepen the crease with a medium-toned hue. Add drama by using a darker shade at the outer corners to create depth.

For the liner, choose a soft brown or espresso shade, smudging it gently along the upper and lower lash lines for that sultry, lived-in vibe. Finish with two coats of volumizing mascara to really make those lashes pop. For an added touch of drama, consider individual lash extensions to elevate the look.

#5. Define Your Brows

A bold espresso look is nothing without perfectly defined brows. Use a brow pencil or powder to fill in any sparse areas with light, feathery strokes, mimicking natural hair. Finish off by locking your brows in place with either a clear or tinted brow gel, ensuring they stay perfectly shaped all day long.

#6. Brew Coffee Lips

Your lips should echo the warmth of espresso with rich, earthy tones. Start by outlining your lips with a nude or brown lip liner—slightly overlining for a fuller look if you desire. Layer on a creamy nude, beige, or brown lipstick with a satin or matte finish for a sophisticated, coffee-inspired pout. Glossing is optional, but if you like the texture, add a clear or slightly tinted gloss for a subtle shine.

#7. Finish Up

Set your flawless look with a hydrating or matte setting spray, depending on your skin type, to lock everything in place. To complete the espresso makeup vibe, pair your look with gold or neutral-toned accessories to tie it all together for a polished, cohesive appearance.

With these simple steps, you’ll have the perfect espresso makeup look—sultry, sophisticated, and undeniably chic.

Bonus tips:

• The key to a natural finish lies in blending your makeup seamlessly.
• Choose products that complement your skin’s undertones for a harmonious look.
• Don’t be afraid to mix shades and textures to personalize your espresso vibe.
• Healthy, hydrated skin is the best canvas for any makeup look.

This makeup trend offers a timeless appeal, making it suitable for any occasion. The rich shades and techniques are versatile enough to complement all skin tones, and best of all, you don’t need an extensive makeup collection to recreate the look. That’s what makes it so highly coveted.

Shop editor’s finds

In Conclusion

Espresso makeup is the perfect balance of soft edge and simplicity—creating a polished, sultry look without feeling overdone. With these easy steps and tips, you’ll be turning heads and radiating an effortlessly chic glow in no time. Whether you’re going for a subtle daytime look or a more dramatic evening vibe, this trend guarantees a flawless, timeless finish.

Featured image: @shannonthornt_n/Instagram 

For the latest in fashion, lifestyle, and culture, follow us on Instagram @StyleRave_

—Read also