How to Choose Your Makeup Based on Your Outfit
- MakeupClasses
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Have you ever put together a great outfit, done your makeup…and still feel like something is off? Most of the time, it’s not the outfit or the makeup, but the connection between the two. Makeup reacts to fabric textures and colors, when those elements work together the entire look is elevated. Here are some tips on how to choose makeup that complements what you’re wearing.
Match Your Makeup to Your Fabrics
The fabric of your outfit acts like a visual backdrop for your skin, affecting how colors bounce off it and how your makeup looks.
Soft & Flowing Fabrics
Silk, satin, chiffon, and knitwear–these fabrics feel romantic, elegant, and cozy. Harsh makeup with these fabrics can clash. Best makeup choices include:
Glowy and dewy base
Cream blushes in soft colors–pinks, corals, peaches
Hydrating glosses or lip stains in natural tones
Soft, blended neutral eyeshadow or muted pastels with minimal eyeliner to keep it gentle
Avoid: Heavy contour, harsh-lines, and super matte-finishes
Structured & Tailored Fabrics
Denim, leather, blazers, tweed, and corsets–these fabrics are sharp, bold, and confident. Balancing the intensity by making the eyes or lips the focus to complement the fabric's sharpness is important. The best makeup choices for these fabrics include:
Matte or semi-matte base
Define your eyes with sharp eyeliner or a soft smokey look
Nude, soft pink, or a bold red/berry stain for a statement
Casual & Textured Fabrics
Cotton, linen, and ribbed basics–relaxed fabrics call for effortless makeup. For these types of fabrics, balance is key!
Skin-like smooth base
Light bronzer to bring warmth to your face
Soft, fluffy, and natural brows
Tinted lip balm or lip oil in natural colors that enhance your lip color
Example: A simple tank top and linen pants look best with fresh, barely there makeup
Choosing Your Makeup Based on Outfit Colors
Color coordination is key–but matching exactly to the colors in your outfit isn’t always the goal.
Neutral Outfits
Neutral tones are a blank canvas for you to explore with makeup. Some ideas include:
Bold lipsticks like red, berry, or espresso
Statement eyeliner that make your eyes pop
Bronzy or sculpted glam to elevate your look
Tip: An all-black outfit and a bold lip is a timeless power move!
Colorful Outfits
When your outfit is already loud, keep your makeup look simple to balance everything out. Some makeup tips include:
Pick one color from your outfit and echo is subtly (eyeliner, blush, lip)
Keep the rest of your face neutral
Soft monochromatic looks work beautifully
Example: If you’re wearing a purple dress, try incorporating soft purples in your eyeshadow
Final Thoughts
The best fashion and makeup looks feel connected. When the fabrics and color talk to your makeup, the result will be effortless–even if it took you 20 minutes to decide on a lip color! Next time your makeup feels “off,” don’t change your face, just look at your outfit!
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