Purple eyeshadow is fall’s most unexpected makeup trend

Seen on red carpets and runways, the versatile shade is surprisingly wearable.

Oct 16, 2026 | by Bazaar India

When it comes to the buzziest makeup trends of the year, it’s clear that the eyes have it. Bold, colorful eye looks dominated buzz this spring and over the last few months, shifting in popularity from icy sky blues to softly vibrant purple eyeshadows. Bazaar editors first spotted the shade on the runway during Fall/Winter 2026 shows of designers like Chanel, Balenciaga, Carolina Herrera, and Saint Laurent, in different iterations on their models, from plum and lilac to amethyst, with smoky, shimmery, and monochromatic finishes.

Carolina Herrera Fall/Winter 2026

Supermodel Bella Hadid walks Saint Laurent’s Fall/Winter 2026 runway

Balenciaga Fall/Winter 2026

While purple eyeshadow appeared on red carpets at award shows like the Oscars and Grammys this spring, celebrities like Zendaya, Cardi B, Zara Larsson, and more have continued to carry the trend into fall in recent months, in line with catwalk inspiration. “I’m really loving the softer, more muted variations of purple right now, especially dusty lavender, cool-toned mauve, and rich plum,” celebrity makeup artist Ash K Holm tells Bazaar. “There’s something so sophisticated about these shades because they give the eyes a beautiful wash of color without feeling overpowering.”

For fall in particular, Holm says she’s drawn to mixing mauve and plum tones to add more depth to eyeshadow looks. “I love using a softer mauve through the crease and adding a deeper plum along the lash line to create definition,” she adds. “It’s a beautiful way to incorporate color while still keeping the makeup elevated and wearable.”

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