We Just Built Your BTS Beauty Routine
Who has time for a full beat and a bouncy blowout during the back-to-school chaos? Not us—and apparently not the models on the fall runways, either. This season’s beauty vibe? Pick one thing and let it shine.
“Focusing on a single element of your look allows you to experiment without looking like you’re trying too hard,” says Sarah Biggers-Stewart, makeup artist and founder of Clover by Clove + Hallow. “Plus, it’s a major time-saver.”
Guess who’s about to master back-to-school beauty without missing the bus? That’s right—it’s you.
Slicked Strands
Sleek and super cool—whether you’re running late for first period or heading to homecoming, the wet look trend brings maximum style with minimal effort. Dampen hair, work in a styling cream then comb, shares hairstylist Aaron Grenia. Finish with a little gel along your hairline to tame flyaways.
TRY: IGK Rich Kid Coconut Oil Air-Dry Styling Cream, $29, sephora.com
Petal Pout
Sometimes all you need is a swipe of pink to pull everything together (it’s a classic look for a reason). Choose a creamy shade that matches the natural tone of your cheeks, then rub your lips, creating a soft, blurred edge. It’s sweet, simple and gives It girl vibes with zero effort.
TRY: L.A. Colors Moisture Rich Lip Color in Dusty Rose, $2, lacolors.com
Flushed Blush
Temps may be dropping, but your face is fire. Dot a creamy blush across apples of your cheeks and bridge of your nose, using your fingers to blend. The goal? A soft, natural flush that looks like you’ve been out all day—even if you’ve just been scrolling TikTok all lunch.
TRY: Clover by Clove + Hallow Pressed Silk Blushing Balm in Heartthrob, $18, cloverbyclove.com
Retro Waves
Old Hollywood…but make it hallway-ready. These polished, face-framing waves look gorgeously glam and are surprisingly easy to create. Using a large-barrel iron, curl sections toward your face, says stylist David von Cannon. Let them cool completely (trust us) before gently brushing them out. Set with a flexible hold spray for a soft, shiny finish.
TRY: Verb Ghost Medium Hold Hairspray, $22, sephora.com
Inner Corner Liner
Start by applying an eyeshadow primer (no smudges here), then grab a liquid liner and draw a mini dash along your lower lash line, stopping just before the tear duct. Repeat on the top lid, connecting the line into a small V-shape, says makeup artist Sara Kuhl. Cute *and* edgy.
TRY: SeneGence EyeSense Liquid Eyeliner Pen, $29, senegence.com
Mulberry Lashes
Gives your eyes an autumnal smolder with bold burgundy mascara. Gently curl your lashes, then wiggle the wand at the base and pull it through to the tips to build dramatic volume, advises Biggers-Stewart. Do this a few times, adding each new coat while the formula is still damp. Finish with a light coat on your lower lashes for extra drama.
TRY: Maybelline Lash Sensational Sky High Mascara in Burgundy Haze, $13, ulta.com
Pastel Shadow
We’re obsessed with candy-colored eyes for fall. Pack your chosen powder onto a flat eyeshadow brush, then gently press it onto your lids for maximum color payoff, says Kuhl. (If your eyelids get oily, apply a primer first). Use a fluffy shadow brush or your fingers to blend the color just above the creases so the edges create a soft wash.
TRY: MAC Eye Shadow #Humblebrag, $25, maccosmetics.com
Hey, girl! Just to let you know, this originally ran in our August/September 2025 Issue. Read our print mag for *free* today when you click HERE!
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