5 Easy Ways to Switch Your Summer Makeup for Autumn
As the weather cools and the jumpers come back out, I find my makeup slowly changing without me even realising. It’s not that I do a full seasonal overhaul — it just happens naturally. My summer pinks get swapped for warmer tones, my bronzer gets dusted off again, and suddenly everything feels a bit more cosy and put-together.
If you’re like me and your makeup bag tends to evolve with the seasons, here are a few easy ways to transition from light summer looks to richer autumn tones — without needing to buy an entire new collection.
1. Swap Pinks for Browns (Eyes First!)
Eyeshadow is always the first thing I switch up. Through the summer months, I live in pinks and light shimmer shades, but once autumn hits, I start reaching for those deeper browns sitting patiently at the other end of my Naked 3 palette. (Anyone else find the first half of theirs gets used up by June?)
Brown tones instantly make your makeup feel warmer and more polished — perfect for everyday wear or an evening look. I love that you can go soft and subtle or layer on depth for a more glam finish.
2. Warm Up Your Blush and Bronzer
If your bronzer palette is anything like mine, it’s probably got a few neglected shades waiting for their moment. Autumn is it! I love the Benefit bronzer and blush palettes because they last forever and have a mix of shades that transition perfectly through the seasons.
This time of year, I swap coral or peach blush for something more rose-toned, and I use a slightly deeper bronzer to add warmth without looking overly sun-kissed.
3. Go Matte, Not Flat
I love a dewy glow in summer — that fresh, light look feels right with bare arms and sunshine. But as autumn arrives, I find myself craving a more matte, velvety finish. It just feels cleaner and more seasonally fitting.
I still use my Estee Lauder Double Wear foundation (a forever favourite), but I’ll finish it with a light dusting of powder to set it and tone down the shine. It gives that soft-focus, “put together” look without feeling heavy.
4. Tone Down the Lips (or Don’t!)
One of the first things I notice on the school run come September? Darker lips. Everyone’s swapping their pink glosses for berry tones and I love seeing it. I’ve tried the bold-lip look but, honestly, it doesn’t suit me — I tend to go heavier on my eyes instead.
If you’re like me, try tinted balms or glosses in warm caramel or mauve shades. They still feel autumnal but are softer and more wearable for everyday life.
5. Embrace the Cosy Glam
Autumn makeup, to me, is all about comfort and confidence — that “cosy glam” feeling. It’s not about perfection or a full face; it’s about small switches that make your look feel richer and more seasonal.
So if your bronzer’s been sitting at the bottom of the bag since June, dust it off. If your palette’s split between pinks and browns, now’s the time to use the other half. You don’t need new products, just a little seasonal inspiration — and maybe a quiet five minutes before the morning chaos begins.
