With winter 2021 almost here, it's time to refresh your wardrobe – and your makeup collection. Yep, a new set of winter fashion trends means a new set of winter makeup trends for 2021, and there is plenty of experimenting to be had.

Winter fashion is all about comfort blended with style, as knit maxi dresses, oversized tailoring and loungewear-as-daywear take over. To complement, we're seeing a return to retro looks, deep hues for lips and a focus on eyes. Makeup for winter 2021 is creative and show-stopping, but there is also a place for barely-there and for skin to shine through after 2020 saw us forgoing foundations and powders in favour of skin TLC.

Below are our picks for the top winter makeup trends for 2021.

Retro glamour

‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s makeup is all on trend this season, as we move away from dedication to one nostalgic decade and embrace the variety of looks over these periods. While it's a lot, glamour is at the core of this winter makeup trend – think flawless finishes, powerful eyes met with powerful lips, and sleek hair that complements.

Liquid liners

Liquid liner seemed to be on the out for the last few years, with fluttery lashes teamed with little to no other eye makeup very much the trend. However, this winter a strong liquid liner is very much seeing love from global makeup artists and celebrities. Go for a strong cat-eye, or a simple, subtle line that adds the illusion of volume to lashes.

Natural skin

Unlike the no makeup makeup trend, natural skin isn't about faking perfect skin. It's about embracing what we used to call imperfections – fine lines, freckles, pigmentation and pimples. Essentially, it's a rebellion against hiding our skin, borne from lockdown and our return to natural, well, everything. Still, you can enhance the finish with nourishing, illuminating primers and a touch of gloss.

Soap brows

Soap brows have been around for ages, but they're going to be huge this year thanks to brands creating their own soap brow kits, and the longevity of bushy brows. DIY versions suggest brushing brows up with actual soap, but to avoid it melting into your eyes (ouch), try a kit.

Colourful eyeshadow

The ‘70s (and ‘80s, really) called and they're thrilled to see their signature look back with a vengeance. Coloured eyeshadow is very much in this winter, from electric blue to jewel tones like emerald. Apply as a wash of colour and team with a heavy amount of mascara to channel the ‘70s, not ‘80s, with a hint of disco and Studio 54.

Y2K lip gloss

This lip paired with a kitten cat-eye feels more contemporary rather than a throwback. When we're still in masks but want some colour, a blue-based red gives any lip undertone a pop without feeling overwhelming.

Lipstick liberation

After almost two years in masks, think of this as lipstick liberation! Any colour and any texture that gives the lips center stage is on trend this winter. One of our favourite lipsticks right now is Jason Wu Beauty's Hot Fluff Lipstick in Danish. This is a matte plum shade that looks great on many skin tones but is also versatile enough on the eyes, lips and cheeks.

Punky eyeliner

Bold, matte and daring is the look seen at Dior and Chanel in Paris. Try using Sisley Paris's Phyto-Khol Star Sparkling Waterproof Liner in Sparkling Black, one of our new favourite black eyeliners that doesn't budge.

Cheek chic

Cream colour on the cheeks adds a pop of glow but also hydrates dry winter skin. Our new obsession with our fingers (for all skin tones) is Kjaer Weis Cream Blush in Ravishing. A swipe of champagne radiance!

Glitter accents

Tell us, what holiday party is complete without a little sparkle? Transform your eyelids into little festive party decorations with a swipe of chunky glitter (keep it safe with cosmetic glitter and not the craft kind, okay?). Leave the rest of your face simple and let your eye look shine.