For the Autumn/Winter 2025 fashion season, makeup artists have embraced creativity and boldness on the runways. While understated elegance still holds its charm, this season's standout feature is undoubtedly the expressive lip art. Designers and makeup professionals have ventured into innovative techniques, vibrant colors, and surreal textures that captivate audiences. The lips have become a central focus, with dramatic interpretations ranging from classic reds to midnight hues, each telling a unique story.
Revolutionizing Red: A Modern Twist on Classic Lips
In Milan, iconic Italian brands are redefining the traditional red lip. Designers and makeup artists are pushing boundaries by experimenting with maximalist finishes and unconventional methods. Antonio Marras showcased an avant-garde ruby harlequin lip, featuring light-reflecting red foil that created a stained glass effect, paired with soft rouge and Renaissance-inspired brows. DSquared presented a glossy, high-definition red lip that deviated from past trends, while Vivetta demonstrated the timeless appeal of matte red lips, complemented by minimalist facial features and trendy hairstyles.
The evolution of the red lip in AW25 is nothing short of revolutionary. At Antonio Marras, the deconstructed ruby harlequin lip stood out with its innovative use of reflective red foil, creating an almost broken, stained glass appearance. This look was further enhanced by the soft blush on the cheeks and meticulously groomed brows, giving it an otherworldly yet subversive edge. DSquared took the classic red lip to new heights with a glassy finish and precise silhouette, a stark contrast to the stained lips seen in previous seasons. Meanwhile, Vivetta proved that matte red lips remain stylish, especially when paired with fresh, minimalistic makeup and contemporary hairstyles like pixie cuts and bangs.
Embracing Darkness: Midnight Hues and Gothic Elegance
Dark, midnight hues are making a comeback, bringing an ethereal gothic vibe to the runways. Brands like Francesco Murano featured deep berry-colored lips with a soft balmy finish, paired with moonlit complexions for a sophisticated, polished look. Street style enthusiasts at Milan Fashion Week have also adopted this trend, using power lips as a statement piece that commands attention and sparks conversations in social settings.
The resurgence of midnight hues adds a layer of sophistication to AW25's makeup palette. Francesco Murano’s models sported deep berry pouts with a gentle, balmy texture, set against complexions that appeared bathed in moonlight, creating a grown-up, polished effect far removed from Halloween aesthetics. This trend has been embraced not only on the runway but also by fashion-forward individuals attending Milan Fashion Week. A high-octane power lip serves as an instant conversation starter, conveying confidence and intent. Moreover, this trend extends beyond Milan, as seen at London Fashion Week where Roksanda introduced a moody, witching hour lip on clean skin. Pauline Dujancourt added a romantic touch with sheer finishes, proving that dark lips can be both powerful and elegant. To achieve this look, prep your lips with a good balm and keep the rest of the face nearly bare, ensuring the lips remain the focal point.