As the self-proclaimed ‘master of nudes,’ I thrive in showcasing my signature polished, natural makeup looks, and now is the perfect moment to shine and glow! The emerging trend of ‘polished nudes’ is poised to take center stage in the Autumn/Winter 2024 season, bringing forth a sophisticated and refined interpretation of natural beauty. This trend draws inspiration from the elegant aesthetics of the 80s and 90s, reimagining classic nude palettes to suit contemporary tastes. To fully embrace this trend, we aim for luxurious interpretations of neutral tones, achieving a matte velvet complexion paired with a hint of glow. Think taupe palettes, and warm browns and beiges for both eyes and lips. The ultimate goal is to enhance your inherent beauty without drastically altering your features, resulting in a timeless and elegant charm.
THIS POST CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS
Explore Polished Nude Makeup Trends from the Catwalks
Saint Laurent AW24: At Saint Laurent’s Autumn/Winter 2024 show, models showcased impeccably matte skin complemented by subtle contouring. This look was paired with neutral eye shadows and softly stained lips, perfectly embodying the essence of understated luxury that defines polished nude makeup.
Ferragamo AW24: The Ferragamo runway emphasized perfected skin with a velvety finish, enhanced by warm, earthy tones on both the eyes and lips. This approach captures the essence of sophisticated simplicity, making it a standout look for the upcoming season.
LaPointe AW24: LaPointe presented a refined and polished nude aesthetic, focusing on natural beauty. The models flaunted soft, matte skin and taupe tones, showcasing how understated elegance can make a bold statement in the world of contemporary fashion.

Essential Tips for Mastering Polished Nude Makeup
Prioritize Skin Health for a Flawless Base
Achieving stunning makeup starts with nurturing your skin; thus, maintaining a radiant glow is only possible if your skin is in optimal condition. To do this, focus on a balanced diet, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and dedicate time to your skincare routine. This includes properly cleansing, toning, and prepping your skin, which allows for a minimal makeup application, resulting in a naturally beautiful finish that highlights your features instead of masking them.
Showcase Your Skin Instead of Concealing It
The essence of polished nude makeup lies in the celebration of your skin’s natural beauty. It’s about enhancing your features to present them in their best light rather than resorting to hiding or altering them. Embrace authenticity in your makeup routine, allowing your true self to shine through with a focus on highlighting your unique attributes while maintaining a fresh and genuine appearance.
Find Your Perfect Shade with Precision
When it comes to nude-focused makeup, selecting the right shade is crucial for achieving a harmonious look. It’s essential to test various shades, perhaps even seeking expert advice to discover your ideal match. Always test shades on your jawline rather than your arm, as this area provides a more accurate representation of how the color will appear against your skin tone, ensuring a seamless blend that enhances your overall look.
Focus on Sculpting, Not Contouring
In achieving a polished nude look, think of it as sculpting rather than traditional contouring. Apply your products beneath the foundation to gently enhance and define your features, steering clear of harsh lines that can detract from the overall elegance of your makeup. This technique allows for a more natural enhancement, creating soft shadows and highlights that complement your facial structure.
Add a Touch of Edginess to Your Look
To prevent a polished look from appearing overly ‘done,’ consider incorporating a touch of dishevelment. Elements such as tousled hair, a smudged eye, or an unlined stained lip, reminiscent of the Saint Laurent AW24 aesthetic, can infuse your look with a sense of effortless chic. This balance between refinement and a laid-back vibe ensures your makeup remains fashion-forward while still feeling approachable.
Must-Have Products for Achieving the Polished Nude Look
- ARMANI | Luminous Silk Perfect Glow Flawless Foundation
- CLÉ DE PEAU | Concealer Stick SPF 25
- WESTMAN ATELIER | Face Trace Contour Stick
- PAT MCGRATH LABS | Skin Fetish: Highlighter + Balm Duo
- CHANEL | Rouge Allure Velvet Luminous Matte Lip Colour
- YVES SAINT LAURENT | Mini Couture Clutch Palette
- ANASTASIA BEVERLY HILLS | Brow Definer
READ NEXT: More AW24 Trends | Nude & Brown Lips
© Wendy Rowe. All Rights Reserved.


