Ladies, as 2024 gracefully bows out, it’s time to sip some tea (or wine, no judgment here) and reflect on the beauty trends that took our feeds by storm. Some were jaw-droppingly fabulous, others were head-scratchers, and a few were…well, let’s say “better in theory.” For those in our 30s and 40s who love testing trends but also know the value of practicality (and a good night’s sleep), here’s your humble, friendly, and slightly sassy guide to the beauty moments that defined the year.
1. Skinimalism: Letting Your Skin Breathe (But With a Strategic Glow)
2024’s love affair with “skinimalism” was a gentle reminder to step back from the 10-step routines and embrace your natural beauty. Think dewy, barely-there makeup paired with a bomb skincare routine. Social media was flooded with selfies captioned, “Just my skin, no filter!” (even though we all knew there was at least a beauty mode involved).
Should we carry it forward? Absolutely, but let’s not skip sunscreen in the name of simplicity, okay? If you’re spending three digits on serums, a RM35 SPF won’t hurt your vibe—or your face.
What not to recreate: That viral “no-makeup” makeup that secretly used 15 products. Let’s agree to keep things honest in 2025.
2. Mermaidcore: The Aquatic Fantasy We Didn’t Know We Needed
If you’ve ever wanted to channel your inner Ariel, 2024 was your year. Mermaidcore—with its shimmering eyeshadows, wet-look hair, and ocean-inspired hues—made waves (pun intended) across social media. TikTokers taught us how to look like we’d just emerged from the sea…without smelling like it.
Should we carry it forward? Maybe…with caution. The iridescent highlighter? Yes. The shell bras? Best left for Halloween or themed parties.
What not to recreate: The “wet hair” trend that had influencers walking around looking like they’d just been caught in a rainstorm. Spoiler: it doesn’t translate well to the office or school pick-up.
3. Micro Trends in Nail Art: From “Barely There” to “Did You Just Glue a Sculpture on Your Nail?”
2024 was a rollercoaster for nail trends. We went from minimalist designs like sheer neutrals and single lines to full-blown mini-art exhibits on each finger. Social media introduced us to “glazed donut nails” (thanks, Hailey Bieber!) and “holographic galaxy tips” that made our hands feel like a sci-fi movie poster.
Should we carry it forward? Yes, but find your middle ground. The chic simplicity of neutral nails? A keeper. But those “micro aquarium nails” with real fish swimming inside? Maybe just admire those from afar.
@longhairprettynails Aquarium Nails 💦💧💅🏾. These were so fun to make. Would you wear these? #aquariumnails #waternails #longhairprettynails ♬ original sound - LongHairPrettyNails
What not to recreate: Nail extensions so long you can’t type or text. Beauty shouldn’t hinder your ability to function—or unzip your jeans.
4. Barbiecore: Pink, Pink, and More Pink
Barbiecore, fueled by the movie’s massive cultural impact, had everyone embracing their inner doll. Hot pink lips, neon blush, and impossibly shiny hair—we were living in a plastic, fantastic world. Even those of us who swore we were over pink found ourselves reaching for magenta eyeliner and bubblegum nails.
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Should we carry it forward? If it sparks joy, why not? A pop of pink can be empowering and fun. But maybe let’s tone down the “total Barbie cosplay” for daily errands.
What not to recreate: The “Barbie spray tan” that turned several influencers a hue closer to Super Ring dust than Malibu perfection.
5. Alien Glam: Out-of-This-World Makeup (Literally)
Alien glam was all about ethereal beauty with a futuristic twist. Picture bold metallics, graphic eyeliner, and pastel highlights that made you look like you’d just landed from Planet Chic. Instagram feeds sparkled with avant-garde looks that were as mesmerizing as they were impractical.
Should we carry it forward? For festivals and photoshoots, sure! Alien glam is a great way to get creative. But maybe let’s not scare the barista at 8 a.m. by rocking chrome cheekbones at Starbucks.
What not to recreate: The “elongated alien eyebrow” trend that made people look permanently surprised. Unless you’re prepping for a sci-fi audition, let’s leave those in 2024.
Final Thoughts: What Did 2024 Teach Us About Beauty?
If 2024 had a motto, it was “Why not?” It reminded us to experiment, have fun, and not take ourselves too seriously. But as we step into 2025, let’s keep the trends that make us feel confident and ditch the ones that feel like a full-time job. Beauty is about enhancing what’s already there—and if a trend doesn’t serve you, it’s okay to let it go.
Here’s to a new year filled with bold experiments, glowing skin, and…reasonable nail lengths. Cheers to beauty that fits our lives, not the other way around!
XoXo,
Susannah