Summer makeup: According to a L’Oréal expert, this shade flatters all skin tones and brings out the radiance in every eye
This summer, one color stands out on every face and for every eye shape. The summer makeup is taking a sunny, natural turn, led by a shade we thought was reserved for fall. Harold James, Global Makeup Artist at L’Oréal Paris, lifts the veil on this game-changing choice.
Why Brown Is Dominating Summer 2026 Makeup
After dominating our wardrobes this winter, brown is now emerging as the most flattering shade in makeup. According to Harold James, it fulfills a need for reassurance and naturalness. As warmer days approach, we’re looking for sunnier, more“natural-looking”looks.
Brown, in all its shades— caramel, chocolate, or hazelnut—evokes warmth and golden light. We’re also seeing a “skin-first” trend that celebrates natural skin. This trend embraces brown because it enhances all skin tones without ever looking artificial.
What’s more, because it can be applied to any area of the face, brown is the go-to shade for versatile products. Think of Chanel’s Les Essentiels Balm, Merit’s Flash Balm, or Victoria Beckham Beauty’s bronzing drops. These formulas stand on their own and slip easily into a suitcase.
“Brown is a natural extension of the skin. It complements our undertones and creates harmony. Unlike more saturated colors, it doesn’t create a jarring contrast; it unifies.” — Harold James, Global Makeup Artist at L’Oréal Paris
Choosing the right undertone for your skin tone
It’s all about contrast. For fair skin tones, opt for soft, slightly rosy or taupe browns to avoid looking tired or too heavy. For medium skin tones, experiment with warm browns, caramel, or terracotta.
For darker skin tones, go for deep browns, rich chocolate shades, or even metallic tones to catch the light. In any case, Harold James emphasizes one key step: always blend. Brown really comes into its own when it’s blended, not left harsh.
Brown eyes: softness and depth
When applied to the eyes, brown gently defines the gaze. Unlike black, which can make features appear harsh, it creates depth without making the expression seem stiff. As a result, it brings out the natural color of the iris, intensifies light-colored eyes, and warms up dark eyes.
L’Oréal Paris’ Panorama Volume Million de Cils mascara in the shade Brun Leather, priced at €15.99, is recommended by Harold James as the perfect daytime choice. It delivers a natural, precise finish that’s perfect for a sun-kissed look.
Brown eyeliner is also gaining popularity. Compared to black, it’s more forgiving: it makes the eyes look bigger without making them look harsh. It’s a great option for those who find black too dramatic and are looking for an “effortless chic” look for everyday wear.
- Opt for a soft brown, pink, or taupe shade for fair skin
- Experiment with caramel or terracotta tones on medium-toned skin
- Try deep or metallic browns on darker skin tones
- Always blend the product on your eyes for a seamless finish
- Choose brown eyeliner instead of black for a softer daytime look
Sunscreen and lips: tips for a sun-kissed look
When it comes to bronzer, the trend is moving toward more subtle formulas that are less orange, with neutral or slightly reddish undertones. The goal is to mimic a natural tan by applying the product to areas naturally exposed to the sun: the temples, the bridge of the nose, and the tops of the cheeks. This means moving away from overly defined contours in favor of an authentic sun-kissed look.
When it comes to lips, the key is still a sheer look. Opt for lightweight formulas, such as those found in lip tints. Harold James recommends dabbing the product on with your finger rather than drawing a sharp outline, to maintain a fresh, natural look.
Mistakes to Avoid and Good Color Combinations
To pull off a summer makeup look in brown tones, there are a few mistakes to avoid. Choosing a brown shade that’s too close to your skin tone—without creating any contrast—will make the look fade into the background. Additionally, a formula that’s too heavy or overly defined lip lines can weigh down the look.
Warm tones also pair beautifully with other colors. Golds and coppers add a radiant glow, while plums and burgundies bring a touch of sophistication. Even a deep blue can create a very modern contrast against a brown base for a bold summer beauty look.
To put together a complete summer makeup kit, Harold James recommends three essentials: a palette of buildable brown eyeshadows in matte and shimmery finishes; an easy-to-blend lip liner like L’Oréal Paris’ Blurfiller in the shades Nude Expresso and Worth It Intense; and a natural bronzer, neither too matte nor too shiny. These three products are all you need to create a cohesive summer makeup look, from morning through evening, regardless of skin tone.
