Guerlain Lip Oils photographed by @violette_fr
French women have long been admired for their timeless beauty. Yes, good genes and a dedication to skincare certainly play their part, but the French philosophy surrounding makeup also contributes to their ageless look.
While you’ll often see women sporting bare faces in more relaxed settings, light makeup looks are still very common — especially in cities like Paris, where there’s a certain chic, pulled-together vibe. And, for special occasions, classic or slightly bolder makeup styles often make an appearance on women of all ages. Whatever the event, the French makeup look is all about enhancing your appearance with a masterful touch, using products that accentuate rather than conceal your natural features.
SUBSCRIBE TO THE MAGAZINE
To help you achieve their effortless style, we’ve gathered some of our favorite French makeup products and tips, so you can master that refined, fresh-faced elegance right at home.
1. The French Foundation
The foundation of any successful French beauty routine is healthy, glowing skin. Before even thinking about makeup, investing in skincare products tailored to your skin type and needs is a must. Your routine can be as complex or paired back as you prefer, although the French typically adopt simple routines. A gentle cleanser, a good moisturizer and an effective sunscreen are essential, with serums added to address specific concerns (learn more about French skincare routines here).
Once your base is prepped, opt for a lightweight, hydrating foundations or tinted sunscreens which are favored for their ability to provide a natural, slightly luminous finish without feeling heavy on the skin.
For mature skin, you might consider formulas that offer buildable coverage, allowing you to achieve your desired level of luminosity. For a more natural look, try foundations and skin tints infused with skincare benefits — your secret to glowing skin. Apply with your fingers or a damp beauty sponge for an undetectable finish.
2. The Bold Lip
Lips are perhaps the quintessential element of French makeup. One of the most striking features of French beauty is the bold red lip. This look is often paired with minimal to no eye makeup, allowing the lips to take center stage and exuding an air of confidence. If you’re unsure about donning a vibrant red, experiment with various shades to find one that flatters your skin tone. A matte or velvet finish is classic, but newer formulations, like tinted lip oils, stains and glosses can add a playful wash of red without overwhelming the face.
Blush and berry-toned lipsticks are also favored by French women, and are more wearable everyday. These shades bring a pop of color to the lips, warmth to the face and making a striking impact on their own. For a naturally flushed complexion, try applying them on your cheeks and eyelids as well.
3. Cat-Like Eyes
Moving to the eyes, if you opt for a bold lip, you might want to keep the eye makeup understated. However, French women also embrace a captivating eye look when they forgo the bold lip. A classic black cat eye, popularized by the iconic film stars of the 1960s, remains a timeless favorite. For this look, a neutral eye base is essential; think taupe, warm brown, or peachy beige shades that complement your skin tone.
Begin by applying a soft wash of color across the eyelids and then add definition with a black gel or liquid eyeliner to create the iconic wing. For a more subtle alternative, use a pencil eyeliner in black or brown. Smudge it gently for that lived-in appearance that French women adore.
Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner
4. Healthy Cheeks
For the cheeks, a naturally healthy appearance is key. The goal is to look fresh and vibrant so look for blush shades that mimic your natural complexion when you’re slightly flushed, such as soft pinks, corals, or mauves. Additionally, a lighter warm-toned bronzer can be used to enhance your features subtly. Apply sparingly across your forehead, down your nose and just beneath your cheekbones for a sun-kissed effect that remains natural-looking. The idea is to sculpt your face gently without the appearance of heavy contouring.
5. The Finishing Touch
Finally, in place of traditional setting sprays that can feel sticky or drying, opt for a hydrating face mist. Apply over makeup for a seamless, dewy finish and use throughout the day to refresh your complexion whenever needed. While thermal water mists are a household staple in France, mists infused with calming ingredients are also beloved handbag essentials for French women of all generations.
