As 2015 quickly approaches, there is no better time to look back and reflect on the past year. While there are certain things you probably want to block from your memory – like that aggressive ombré dye job – 2014 beauty trends certainly need not be one of them! This year was filled with fresh and fabulous looks that kept us on our toes for twelve entire months.
Here are our top 10 best beauty trends of 2014 and their corresponding, must-have star products.1. GLOWING SKIN
As demonstrated at the Mara Hoffman Spring/Summer 2014 show as well as on model Gigi Hadid, this trend is all about having (or faking) a lit-from-within glow. With this trend, never forgot beauty’s golden rule about drinking enough water. It will do wonders for your dewy complexion.
TRY: Charlotte Tilbury Wonderglow ($52)
2. OXBLOOD LIPS
Seen at Zimmerman Fall 2014 and rocked by the gorgeous actress Lily Collins, dark, oxblood-colored lips were loved by countless faces this year. Although initially intimidating, anyone can pull off this look, regardless of if you choose a matte lipstick or slightly more subtle stain.
TRY: Nars Audacious Lipstick in Charlotte ($32)
3. THE BOB
In terms of haircuts, this was the year of the bob; no question about that. From the Marc Jacobs Fall 2014 runway to Karlie Kloss and countless other celebrities, chopped hair was having (another) moment. While years past saw the lob as the trend du jour, this year was all about going shorter. If you’re looking for a fresh start or to revamp damaged hair, consider chopping off your ends. Remember to add texture to give it that 2014 edge.
TRY: John Masters Organics Sea Mist Sea Salt Spray ($17)
4. METALLIC EYES
We loved the ice queen eye look at Emporio Armani Fall 2014, as well as on Kristen Stewart. Although easy to achieve, this trend will totally shake up your makeup routine and brighten your entire face. It’s perfect for a night out on the town, but feel free to try it during the day for something a bit more unexpected.
TRY: Marc Jacobs Beauty Highliner Gel Eye Crayon in N(Ice) ($25)
5. BOLD BROWS
It’s been said that Cara Delevingne’s eyebrows are the only British-made objects that can be seen from the moon, and we wouldn’t want it any other way. This look may seem rebellious, but Carolina Herrera’s Fall 2014 runway show proved it can be classic as well; a throwback to women like Brooke Shields and Cindy Crawford circa 1980s.
TRY: Anastasia Beverly Hills Dip Brow Pomade ($18)
6. NUDE LIPS
If you aren’t going bold with oxblood, tone things down with a nude lip as spotted at Rodarte Spring 2014. Sandra Bullock showed us how amazing a strong, nude lip can be for an evening event. As it turns out, bolder isn’t always better.
TRY: Bite Beauty Luminous Cream Lipstick in Light Nude Beige ($24)
7. UNDONE BUN
Favored by off-duty models and the ‘dos of Marchesa’s Fall 2014 runway show, the undone bun is meant to look… well, undone. Let go of your inner control freak when attempting to recreate it and even pull out some face fringe to play the part perfectly.
TRY: BlowPro Textstyle Dry Texture Spray ($20)
8. NATURAL BEAUTY
Thanks to Beyonce, #iwokeuplikethis is trending in a major way, although Alexander Wang and Proenza Schouler may have been ahead of her with their respective Fall 2014 and Spring 2014 shows. While we don’t all wake up with a flawless complexion, key products and subtle application can help us fake it until we make it. And, remember, natural beauty is about the illusion of no makeup so stick with light liquids, stains, and creams in neutral shades.
TRY: Kjaer Weis Cream Blush in Blossoming ($56)
9. GEOMETRIC NAIL ART
Over-the-top nail art such as appliqués and complex designs may be over, but we’re still feeling clean, geometric patterns for fingers. Tracy Reese had her models sport this look at the Spring 2014 show, and Zooey Deschanel even wore it on the red carpet. A creamy, white polish will be your BFF if attempting to DIY.
TRY: JINsoon Nail Lacquer in Kookie White ($18)
10. RADIANT ORCHID LIDS AND LIPS
Prabal Gurung showed off Pantone’s 2014 Color of the Year on the models’ lips at his Spring/Summer 2014 show, and Scarlett Johannson and Lupita Nyong’o prove that this works equally well on lips and eyes, no matter your skin tone. Afraid of the provocative purple hue? Try the shade as your pop of color with eyeliner, mascara, or even a sheer gloss as opposed to a matte formula.
TRY: Sephora + Pantone Universe Gazing Paint Liquid Eyeliner ($11) or Clinique Chubby Stick Baby Tint Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm in Flowering Freesia ($17)
If we were into gambling, we would be willing to bet that these trends aren’t going anywhere anytime soon… they’re just that good. So pick up some key products and continue playing with these looks well into the new year.