I spent much of my early teens reading magazines (like Cosmo!) to figure out what to wear on a first date. Although I wasn't really going on dates at the time (and still am not, lol), it seemed like an important skill to have, considering the many spreads I poured over. Makeup, though? Look like yourself, the experts always said. Fresh-faced, I think is what they called it then. Now, we’d say “no makeup makeup.” Smooth skin, barely any eye makeup, a tinted lip balm, perhaps.
But in 2026, as the minimalist, “clean girl” trend reaches its demise, the likes of Charli XCX, Zara Larsson, Chappell Roan, and Doechii permeate culture in full-face glam. None of the “soft,” “simple” stuff flies anymore. But it’s not just when you’re going to a Boiler Room set for your fave DJ or for a night out dancing. A heavier glam is also totally the norm (and exponentially cooler) for a first date.
But don’t let the date number get to you. Whether it’s date #1 or date #10, treat yourself like Lisa Barlow—glam is glam! Of course, date night makeup will entirely depend on what you feel comfortable in. But here are a few ideas, supported by the biggest makeup trends right now, to get you started. Might just fire up my Hinge so I can wear these too…
Afterglow Skin
There’s a reason your skin looks so good after an orgasm. Science says it’s endorphins, but I’m saying it’s sweat. Either way, you can totally mimic the effects of a good time with makeup even before the date begins. Dot concealer anywhere you want more coverage, then stipple on a lightweight foundation or skin tint in thin layers until you’ve reached your desired finish. Remember: We’re not covering ourselves up here, just enhancing.
Merit The Minimalist Complexion Stick
Armani Beauty Golden Hour 24HR Lightweight Skin Tint
Saie CitySet Ultra-Fine Mist Setting Spray
Wine-Stained Lips
Red on a first date? Classic, simple, blah, whatever. Maroon on a first date? Iconic, cool, unique, striking. You might think to stray away from a bold lip because of all the kissing potential, but living on the edge is way more fun. Try a satin lip formula like the ones below—they’ll smooth right over your lips and add moisture but has much more longevity than a gloss.
REFY Satin Liquid Lipstick Pen
Maybelline Serum Lipstick
L'Oreal Paris Colour Riche Satin Lipstick
Flirty Frost
You absolutely should not be dulling your shine for a first date. In fact, pack it on more than normal. A shimmery highlighter across your lids, cheeks, nose, and cupid’s bow adds a sparkly glow to you that’s impossible to forget. If you want to take things to the next level, dab a cream or balm on top to really amp up the glow.
VIOLETTE FR Baume Shine Universal Highlighter Balm
Kosas Shiny Objects Wet Glisten Highlighter Powder
Jones Road Just A Sec Eyeshadow
Moody Monochrome
Monochrome will always look chic, even though it takes zero effort to come together. Although I will never and have never played it cool on a date, I sure as hell will on my face with a cool-toned brown shade. To create, make a multi-stick your friend to create a full look from eyes, lips, and cheeks.
Danessa Myricks Beauty Colorfix Multi-Use Eye, Lip, and Cheek Pigment
MAC Powder Kiss Liquid Lip & Cheek Mousse
Blue Crush
Go ahead, flirt with your eyes. A dusting of blue shadow all over your lids feels playful but fresh at the same time. It’s totally okay if the shade is sheer, giving a watercolor effect to your eyes. But you can layer a cream shadow underneath for more opacity.
Kaja Beauty Bento Stacked Eyeshadow Trio
Anastasia Beverly Hills Glidr Smudge Proof Cream Eyeshadow Stick
Why trust Cosmopolitan?
Beth Gillette is the beauty editor at Cosmopolitan with more than seven years of experience researching, writing, and editing makeup stories.
Beth Gillette is the beauty editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers skincare, makeup, hair, nails, and more across digital and print. She can generally be found in bright eyeshadow furiously typing her latest feature or hemming and hawing about a new product you "have to try." Prior to Cosmopolitan, she wrote and edited beauty content as an Editor at The Everygirl for four years. Follow her on Instagram for makeup selfies and a new hair 'do every few months.
