Inspired by nature, these shades range from soft browns and warm terracottas to rich ochres and deep greens, creating a timeless, effortless look no matter your skin tone or colour.
Whether you’re going for a barely-there natural aesthetic or a bold, earthy glam, we’ve put together a few tips on everything you need to know about earthy-toned make-up, from colours to application.
Types
1. Foundation
Choose warm undertones like golden beige, honey or caramel. Opt for lightweight formulas that blend seamlessly with your skin tone for a fresh, dewy finish.
2. Eyeshadow
Earthy tones work beautifully on the eyes. Popular shades include:
• Soft browns and taupes – Ideal for subtle definition.
• Warm terracotta and copper – Adds depth and warmth.
• Olive and moss green – Unique yet wearable.
• Deep chocolate and burnt sienna – Perfect for smoky looks.
3. Blush
Peachy, terracotta and bronze blush shades create a sun-kissed glow that enhances your natural warmth without looking overdone.
4. Lipstick
From soft nude pinks to deep rust and cinnamon tones, earthy lip shades flatter all complexions while keeping the look natural and sophisticated.
5. Highlighter and bronzer
Gold and champagne-toned highlighters pair well with earthy looks, while bronzers in warm brown or caramel shades help sculpt the face naturally.
Flawless application
1. Start with a flawless base
Begin with a hydrating primer, followed by a lightweight foundation or tinted moisturiser that enhances your natural skin tone. Use a concealer to cover any blemishes or dark circles.
2. Enhance your eyes
Apply a neutral matte brown shade as a transition colour in the crease. Deepen the outer corners with a warm terracotta or chocolate shade. For a pop of colour, add olive or copper shimmer to the lid. Finish with brown or black mascara for a soft yet defined look.
3. Warm up the cheeks
Apply a soft peach or terracotta blush on the apples of your cheeks and blend upward for a natural flush. Add a touch of bronzer for warmth and dimension.
4. Define the lips
Line your lips with a nude or brown lip liner and fill them in with an earthy lipstick shade like cinnamon, terracotta or a warm nude.
5. Set and glow
Use a setting spray to lock in the look and dab a golden highlighter on the high points of your face for a luminous finish.
Earthy colours for different skin tones
Fair
• Opt for soft taupes, warm peach and light terracotta shades.
• Avoid overly dark browns, which can appear harsh.
• Light pinky-nude or soft coral lip shades work beautifully.
Medium/Olive
• Warm copper, burnt sienna and olive tones enhance natural warmth.
• Terracotta and golden bronzers add depth.
• Cinnamon and caramel lip shades complement olive undertones.
Deep
• Rich chocolate browns, deep coppers and burgundy
shades pop beautifully.
• Warm brick-red or berry blushes add dimension.
• Deep rust, cocoa and mahogany lip colours are stunning choices.
Earthy tones are versatile, easy to wear and universally flattering. Whether you want a minimal everyday look or a sultry evening glam, these natural hues help enhance your features while keeping your make-up refined and elegant. Experiment with different shades and textures to find the perfect earthy palette for your unique beauty.
