No, It’s Not Cold In Here—Frosted Lipstick Is Back

From lips to lids, shimmer is in. Much of the glitter of the moment tends toward exaggeration, from gem-encrusted eyes and lips (think: the glam that accompanied Gaultier’s spring 2024 couture collection) to more everyday decorative facial embellishments (diamante additions placed along a lash line and the like). But those who prefer a shimmering detail that makes a statement through subtlety will be pleased to know that the frosted lip, a visual ode to retro-futurism, is set to be one of the year’s more prevalent makeup trends.

“I love a frosted lip look and I’ve done so many recently,” says makeup artist Omayma Ramzy. “Frosted lips make me think of going out, getting dressed up—of making getting ready fun, playful, and flirty. It’s a great way to elevate a lip look and make it less serious, but still so put together and elevated.” This lip packs some major pop-star appeal, a pull of the youthful whimsy that infused the early-aughts. But while the refractive application may provide an instant visual channel to Y2K, but its origins date back to the 1960s. “Iconic figures like Twiggy and Edie Sedgwick epitomized the spirit of the ’60s with frosted lips, evoking words such as ‘mod,’ ‘chic,’ and ‘futuristic.’” says makeup artist Benjamin Puckey. “These elements perfectly capture the essence of the 1960s fashion and beauty revolution.” Moving into the ‘70s, the cool-toned shimmering lips went bronze and brick, and leaned both bohemian and Disco decadent depending on the context.

In the present tense, frosted lips can be carried off in any color and lend to as much of a look as you’d like. “To give the frosted lip a modern touch, focus on a more muted and wearable shimmer,” Puckey recommends, along with a prioritization of soft pastels or warm earthy tones, and a frosting that operates as an accent rather than a feature. “Opt for a diffused application, concentrating on the center of the lips for a gradient effect.”

Both shimmer-infused lip products, pressings of preferred eyeshadows, or even highlighter can be used to achieve an individualized frosted moment—but either way, prep is essential. “Achieving the perfect frosted lip involves careful application,” says Puckey. “Start with a hydrating lip balm to create a smooth canvas.” Level up your warm-toned frosted lips with a swirl of warming bronzer, or accompany a cooler lip with defined lashes and a swing of liner. “It’s a delicate dance between the chic simplicity of the ’60s and the free-spirited glamour of the ’70s.”

Another option? Go full 2024 and ditch the drawing board entirely. “I think the fashion world today is all about the weirder the better—I would even go as far as to say ugly beauty is in,” muses makeup artist Alexandra French. She suggests stripping the face of strong features (aka blocking brows), ditching mascara, and allowing all focus to fall on your frosty pout.