10 Date-Night Makeup Ideas I Screenshotted in 2026

There’s no denying the excitement that comes with a great date. There’s a flurry of preparation steps, like that one text confirming a late-night dinner reservation or an unscheduled first meeting that ends with a drinks date the following week. While there’s no rulebook for how to go on a date (and there shouldn’t be one), it’s normal to seek inspiration for your style choices before heading out. Case in point: the countless text messages my friend and I sent each other before we met our future partners. first date outfithair and makeup.

and valentine’s day Since we just turned a corner, I’m preemptively saving my date night makeup, which ranges from sweet and ruddy to goddess-level glowing and downright sexy. Whether you’re meeting in a dimly lit martini bar or strolling into the sunset, we’ve found celebrity-approved makeup looks that will match any occasion and help you look your best. (Remember, it’s not about the makeup; it’s about how it gives you the confidence to be yourself.) Here are 10 date-night looks you’ll want to save for your next date.

Date makeup ideas to try in 2026

old hollywood glam

As far as I’m concerned, old Hollywood glamor never goes out of style. Especially not on date night. Selena Gomez’s chic look at the 2026 Golden Globe Awards created by a celebrity makeup artist Hun Vangowith dark ruby ​​lips and classic eyes, detailed by the smallest, sharpest wings I’ve ever seen. A healthy amount of pink blush adds flush to the cheeks, drawing in the neutral warmth of the eyeshadow for an instantly screenshot-worthy look. but, Red lipstick perfect for Valentine’s Day Products from Vanngo’s namesake beauty brand are out of stock. You can shop similar shades below (plus some of the exact products he used).

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clean girl glow

Nothing shows off your natural beauty like glowing, healthy skin. Model and beauty brand founder Jasmine Tookes’ super dewy makeup is a masterclass in easy date night makeup. Her eyes and lips are left mostly nude, with just a wash of plum color to define and spotlight her skin. Her glowing skin looks like it’s lit by candlelight, and we can’t wait to test this look under the flickering light of a flame in a trendy New York restaurant.

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subtle flick

These shots are Kaia Gerber’s clean, classic look by celebrity makeup artist nina park I use it as a reference for my makeup almost every day. This soft, romantic look with the famous Nina Park pout, with its nearly bare eyelids, jet black short wings, and soft feathered ends, deserves a place in the hall of fame of date night makeup looks. When in doubt, try sketching your baby’s wings. It is suitable for almost all plans, outfits and hairstyles and is sure to boost your confidence at any time.

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natural glam

No one has natural glamor like a model. Lori Harvey. The model and actress accentuates her natural beauty with a neutral brown shade that’s neither too warm nor too cool, adding a little definition to her eyes and lips, and a peachy pop of color to the apples of her cheeks. Instead of heavy liner, do like Harvey and highlight your orbs with a shimmery champagne eyeshadow in the inner corners of your eyes. (Don’t forget to apply voluminous mascara and baby pink lip gloss before heading out the door.)

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bubblegum blush

If anyone has the right to tell us about date night makeup, it’s love island usa own Orandria Carsen — Why not take a page out of her book and up your dose of bubblegum pink blush ahead of Valentine’s Day? The breakout star’s famous flushed cheeks have become a staple of hers (and her devoted fans) on and off the dating reality show, but we can’t think of a better time to slip into a pop of pink than before a cute date.

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Y2K Angel

I had so many beautiful shots of mesmerizing Gerber saved on my phone, but I didn’t have enough time to rave about them all. But if I had to choose something different to recreate on date night, this subtly smoky liner and nude pink lip would be a no-brainer. There’s something about the combination of her tightly lined waterline, seductively smudged (and slightly glittery!) liner, and matte lipstick that just feels heavenly. Victoria’s Secret Angel. If Y2K beauty is your bread and butter, consider using this glamorous shot as a reference before your next late night out.

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cool tone lip

While 2025 was characterized by cool-toned makeup, 2026 won’t feature those icy shades either. If you’re used to wearing regular makeup, it can be fun to change up one feature before a date instead of putting on a completely new look. The easiest thing to try is a lip combination (in fact, don’t deny the power of a new lipstick and liner). Tookes’ edgy yet elevated cool-toned lip is perfect to recreate this year.

To achieve her look, try the following: Overline your cupid’s bow (there’s a whole tutorial on this) and blend the liner towards the center of your lips for a diffused look. Finish by applying medium pink lipstick on top.

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enchanting smoke

Just like Tookes’ lips, sometimes it’s best to let one feature do the talking. And in this dirty chic look for the actress by Vango, Rose Byrne, it’s clear this is all about the eyes. This look features blended black eyeliner to create a smoky eye, and layered bits of black and gray shadow in the form of feathery eyeliner to create a cat-like effect. The result is a seductive look without going completely smoky. If you’re planning your makeup look for a fancy jazz bar, a night of dancing, or a fancy party with someone who’ll give you butterflies, there’s no better time than now to pull off a chic eye and lip combo.

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feathered eyelashes

For something classic and romantic, try a look that keeps things natural and fresh, like model Vanngo’s feathered eyelash look. Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. Her eyes are highlighted by full, full lashes and a subtle blend of brown eyeliner above her lashline, giving her the most intense look. Her lips and cheeks, on the other hand, are painted in a simple, dripping pink. Whether you’re heading out for a dinner date or a late movie night, this simple look is always a success.

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Peach Keen

It’s true that cool-toned makeup is all the rage right now, but warm-toned eyeshadow and pouts are making a comeback as well. Some might call it “return.” It’s a 2016 makeup trend, but this modern iteration gives the trend a bronzed, fresh look. If you miss the warmth of Anastasia Beverly Hills’ once-popular Modern Renaissance palette, or if you feel that warmer tones suit your skin better than cool tones, this peach-hued look is for you. You can recreate this effortless look by simply blending a little apricot eyeshadow under your lower lash line and extending an orange-nude lip liner.

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