"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."
I spent much of my early teens reading magazines (like Cosmo !) to figure out what to wear on a first date. Although I wasn't really going on dates at the time (and still am not, lol), it seemed like an important skill to have, considering the many spreads I poured over. Makeup , though? Look like yourself, the experts always said. Fresh-faced, I think is what they called it then. Now, we’d say “ no makeup makeup .” Smooth skin, barely any eye makeup, a tinted lip balm , perhaps.
But in 2026, as the minimalist, “clean girl” trend reaches its demise, the likes of Charli XCX, Zara Larsson, Chappell Roan, and Doechii permeate culture in full-face glam. None of the “soft,” “simple” stuff flies anymore. But it’s not just when you’re going to a Boiler Room set for your fave DJ or for a night out dancing. A heavier glam is also totally the norm (and exponentially cooler) for a first date.
But don’t let the date number get to you. Whether it’s date #1 or date #10, treat yourself like Lisa Barlow—glam is glam! Of course, date night makeup will entirely depend on what you feel comfortable in. But here are a few ideas, supported by the biggest makeup trends right now, to get you started. Might just fire up my Hinge so I can wear these too…
Afterglow Skin
There’s a reason your skin looks so good after an orgasm. Science says it’s endorphins, but I’m saying it’s sweat. Either way, you can totally mimic the effects of a good time with makeup even before the date begins. Dot concealer anywhere you want more coverage, then stipple on a lightweight foundation or skin tint in thin layers until you’ve reached your desired finish. Remember: We’re not covering ourselves up here, just enhancing.
The Minimalist Complexion Stick
Golden Hour 24HR Lightweight Skin Tint
CitySet Ultra-Fine Mist Setting Spray
Wine-Stained Lips
Red on a first date? Classic, simple, blah, whatever. Maroon on a first date? Iconic, cool, unique, striking. You might think to stray away from a bold lip because of all the kissing potential, but living on the edge is way more fun. Try a satin lip formula like the ones below—they’ll smooth right over your lips and add moisture but has much more longevity than a gloss.
Satin Liquid Lipstick Pen
Serum Lipstick
Colour Riche Satin Lipstick
Flirty Frost
You absolutely should not be dulling your shine for a first date. In fact, pack it on more than normal. A shimmery highlighter across your lids, cheeks, nose, and cupid’s bow adds a sparkly glow to you that’s impossible to forget. If you want to take things to the next level, dab a cream or balm on top to really amp up the glow.
Baume Shine Universal Highlighter Balm
Shiny Objects Wet Glisten Highlighter Powder
Just A Sec Eyeshadow
Moody Monochrome
Monochrome will always look chic, even though it takes zero effort to come together. Although I will never and have never played it cool on a date, I sure as hell will on my face with a cool-toned brown shade. To create, make a multi-stick your friend to create a full look from eyes, lips, and cheeks.
Artist Color Crayon Waterproof Multi-Use Stick
Colorfix Multi-Use Eye, Lip, and Cheek Pigment
Powder Kiss Liquid Lip & Cheek Mousse
Blue Crush
Go ahead, flirt with your eyes. A dusting of blue shadow all over your lids feels playful but fresh at the same time. It’s totally okay if the shade is transparent, giving a watercolor effect to your eyes. But you can layer a cream shadow underneath for more opacity.
Beauty Bento Stacked Eyeshadow Trio
Glidr Smudge Proof Cream Eyeshadow Stick
Glidr Smudge Proof Cream Eyeshadow Stick
Why trust Cosmopolitan ?
Beth Gilletteis the beauty editor at Cosmopolitan with more than seven years of experience researching, writing, and editing makeup stories.
You Might Also Like
