5 Natural Prom Looks That Will Look Gorgeous With Any Outfit

April 06, 2023
Alyssa Kaplan
By: Alyssa Kaplan | Makeup.com by L'Oréal
person with long dark hair with two face-framing braids and peach-colored makeup matching a peach-colored shirt

Prom season is right around the corner, which probably means that you’re searching for some prom makeup inspiration. From cut crease eyeshadow looks to graphic eyeliner, bold lips and more, the glam options are endless for your big night. But if you’re more into a minimal makeup aesthetic, there are also plenty of softer looks that will be gorgeous for the occasion, too. Below, we’re sharing some of our favorite natural yet elevated makeup looks that are perfect for prom. 

What Makeup Should You Wear for Prom?

Prom is a great opportunity to have fun with your look, regardless of how subtle or bold you choose to go. There are no rules when it comes to makeup — just be sure to choose something that makes you feel great!


From a technical standpoint, you may want to consider opting for waterproof and sweat-proof makeup formulas to reduce the chances of smudges and smears when you’re dancing the night away. 

The Best Natural Makeup Looks for Prom 

In need of inspo for a natural makeup look to wear to prom? We’re sharing some of our favorite looks below. 

Glowy Skin and a Red Lip 

If you like to accentuate your lips while keeping the rest of your makeup minimal, a timeless red lip paired with radiant skin is for you. By keeping the eyes and cheeks subdued, the overall look remains fairly natural despite the pop of color on your lips. 


If you’re in need of a red lipstick suggestion, we love the Urban Decay Vice Lip Bond Glossy Liquid Lipstick in Unbreakable. It’s a glossy, highly pigmented formula that will stay put without drying out your lips.

Soft Winged Eyeshadow

If you want the focus of your look to be on your eyes, give this soft winged eyeshadow look a try. It’s a more subtle take on classic winged eyeliner, but it’s just as effective at giving the eyes a lifted and defined look. 


To create the look, place a piece of tape angled up at the corners of your eyes and use a pencil eyeshadow brush to blend out a deep eyeshadow. Finish off with your favorite lip color and a coat of a volumizing mascara, like the Lancôme Monsieur Big Mascara.

Fresh Skin and Glossy Lips

Some of the best prom makeup looks are the ones that accentuate your features in an understated way and allow your dress to steal the spotlight — especially if your dress is bold or bedazzled. 


Even out your complexion with a sweat-proof foundation and apply a mattifying setting powder, like the NYX Professional Makeup Can’t Stop Won’t Stop Mattifying Powder, to shiny areas to ensure your makeup photographs well. Then, give your lips a glossy finish with the NYX Professional Makeup Fat Oil Lip Drip in My Main.

Flushed Cheeks and Lips

If you ask us, the more blush the better. Make your cheeks the focal point of your makeup look applying a cream blush, like the MILK MAKEUP Lip + Cheek Cream Blush Stick, to your cheeks using your fingertips to melt in the product. You can also put a monochromatic spin on the look by blending it onto your lips too.

Colored Eyeliner

Believe it or not, it’s absolutely possible to play with color in a subtle fashion. If you want to add a fun little pop to your makeup while maintaining an overall natural look, try using colored eyeliner. You can add a simple line to your top or bottom lash line, or amp it up a bit by applying the color to both. 


The Urban Decay 24/7 Inks Liquid Eyeliner is great because it comes in a wide range of vibrant colors and the ultra-pigmented formula glides on effortlessly with one stroke.
Photo: Chaunte Vaughn

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