This smudged lip look, as worn by Emma Stone, can be achieved in 5 minutes with just one lip pencil
Lip makeup is taking a new turn this summer of 2026. Gone are the days of strict, flawless lines: the “blurred lips” trend is winning over celebrities on the red carpet, from the Golden Globes to the Cannes Film Festival. Sophisticated yet accessible, this technique creates a soft look that effortlessly enhances the lips.
“Blurred lips” lip makeup: a trend embraced by celebrities
Emma Stone, photographed on March 15, 2026, embodies this new beauty trend. Inspired by the “bitten lip” look, this lip makeup technique involves applying color to achieve a natural result with a consistently striking effect. Popularized last summer, this trend has continued to gain traction over the past few months.
From the Oscars to the Met Gala, many celebrities have chosen this look for the red carpet. The reason is simple: it’s sophisticated without being over the top. This type of makeup enhances the lips while remaining easy to wear, whether at a formal event or in everyday life.
“Start by applying the product to the Cupid’s bow to gently redefine the contour of the upper lip,” explains Aurore Gautier, the makeup artist behind the Instagram account @byauroremua.
Lip makeup that’s perfect for any occasion
This technique pairs perfectly with bold or shimmery eye makeup for special occasions. It’s also suitable for everyday wear, even without any other makeup. The versatility of the “blurred lips” look explains its meteoric rise in popularity among the general public.
The final look isn’t one of sharp, defined contours. Instead, the goal is a subtly diffused halo of color that gives the lips a natural, desirable appearance. This soft, subtle look stands in stark contrast to the ultra-defined lips of previous years.
- A creamy lip pencil in a shade that matches your natural lip color
- A brush for blending the product
- A lip balm or lip oil for a glossy look
- Use your fingers to dab and blend the color as needed
- About 5 minutes of your time
How to Create This Lip Look in Just a Few Minutes
Aurore Gautier shares her step-by-step tips for recreating this look at home. Start by using a creamy lip pencil in a shade close to your natural skin tone or slightly darker. The idea is to clearly define your Cupid’s bow, then blend the product with a brush.
This method helps restore balance to the volumes of the mouth. It adds more definition to the upper lip, which is often thinner than the lower lip. The line is then drawn from the corners of the mouth, following the natural contour of the lips.
Blend again to remove any visible lines. The goal is a subtle blend, not sharp edges. You can stop there for a trendy yet understated look.
For an even more attractive look, color in the rest of your lips with the same lip pencil. Another option is to add a touch of lip balm or lip oil. This adds a luminous, subtle glossy effect that’s very popular in the summer.
A technique you can’t miss
The best thing about this lip makeup? It hides any mistakes. If the line isn’t precise or looks slightly asymmetrical, just dab the product with your fingertip. The color will then blend more seamlessly into your skin.
This tolerance for imperfection makes the technique accessible to beginners. You don’t need to be a professional to achieve a polished look. Just a few simple steps are all it takes to create an elegant, modern lip look.
Why This Lip Makeup Look Is Taking Summer 2026 by Storm
This trend reflects a desire for a natural, simple look. Women are looking for looks that don’t require hours of preparation. “Blurred lips” checks all these boxes by offering a quick and chic result.
The summer heat makes it a good idea to simplify your beauty routine. This type of lip makeup stays put despite the heat, because the sheer formula adheres without feeling heavy. It also prevents the “smudged” look that can occur with some traditional lipsticks.
On social media, tutorials are popping up everywhere and inspiring thousands of followers. The ease of recreating these looks encourages people to try them out and share them. Every woman can adapt the shade and intensity to her own style.
This summer of 2026, the smudged lip look is a must-have. From red carpets to Parisian terraces, it frames smiles with elegance and a laid-back vibe.
