If you’ve ever looked at a glass of merlot (or pinot noir, or cabernet) and thought, “That would make a killer lipstick shade,” you’re not alone. The red wine makeup trend is bubbling up this fall on TikTok—and no, it’s not about slathering alcohol on your face. Curious how to wear this look? Keep reading and get inspired by the most stunning red wine-hued makeup styles.
“The red wine makeup trend is a rich, monochromatic vibe where eyes, lips, and cheeks harmonize with deep reds and berry tones,” explains Lauren D’Amelio Ventre, a New York-based makeup artist.
According to Spate, the hashtag #redwinemakeup currently averages 870,000 weekly views on TikTok. It peaked mid-July, but fall trend reports and makeup pros predict it will get even hotter during the “spooky season.”
David Razzano, a New York makeup artist and Sephora’s beauty director, says the return of dark red lips is inspired by the revival of gothic style—especially the playful vibes of the late ’90s. Caroline DelRio, CEO of CO Bigelow beauty store, sees burgundy, grunge-inspired smoky eyes becoming a major trend soon, thanks to the upcoming launch of easy-to-blend colorful eyeliners.
Makeup artist and Well People co-founder Shirley Pinkson Mañas highlights the trend’s versatility. Whether you want something bold like a full-bodied cabernet or something more subtle, the red wine palette offers shades for every skin tone. You can go for a deep berry blush or a dramatic burgundy lip, but Ventre says, “the eyes really set the whole mood.”
A burgundy smoky eye might seem intimidating at first, but Ventre shares blending tips to avoid the dreaded raccoon look. Before diving into burgundy and blueberry shadows, “start with a neutral transition shade—think soft taupe, warm brown, or muted peach in the crease. It makes blending easier and keeps harsh lines at bay,” she advises.
Next, add “a deeper plum or chocolate brown to the outer corner, blending it into the burgundy” for depth. Always apply shades from lightest (inner corner) to darkest (toward the temple). The products you choose depend on how dramatic you want to go. For a glowing, intense look, Ventre recommends the Viseart Petit Pro II palette, which features deep plum and burgundy shades alongside lighter neutrals for smooth transitions.
“It has both matte and shimmer shades, so you can create a matte smoky eye or a sparkling red wine look,” says Ventre.
Prefer a softer look? Check out the Anastasia Beverly Hills Soft Glam palette, known for its buttery texture and similar shades. “I keep the skin fresh with a soft, silky finish,” Ventre says. Then she creates a romantic, gentle eye using neutral tones mixed with deep purple and burgundy.
Not confident with eye makeup? No worries. Ventre recommends the Ilia Multi-Stick Cream Blush + Highlighter + Lip Tint in “A Fine Romance” for that perfect berry shade to achieve the monochromatic red wine effect.
“Using the same product on cheeks and lips is an easy yet impactful way to unify your makeup,” says Ventre.
So when you’re putting together your fall makeup collection, keep a bottle of your favorite red wine nearby for inspiration—and maybe sip a little while you’re at it.
