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There’s something undeniably magical about French beauty, especially during the holidays. This year, U.S. women are leaning into the effortless glow that Parisians seem to master without trying. Forget layers of contour or ultra defined brows; this trend is all about understated elegance, radiant skin, and that just kissed flush that looks like you’ve spent the weekend in Provence. Let’s dive into the 12 secrets below.
The Barely-There Base
French women have long sworn by a skin first approach, and now, U.S. beauty fans are catching on. Instead of a heavy foundation, they opt for light, radiant skin tints that even out complexion without hiding it. Think glow enhancing formulas with well moisturized skin for that effortless “I woke up like this” charm. This minimalist base is perfect for holiday gatherings,
Cream Blush on the Cheekbones
The French love a soft flush that mimics a brisk Parisian walk, and now American women are dabbing cream blush right along their cheekbones for a lifted, youthful glow. Unlike traditional powder blush, this technique creates a dewy sheen that blends seamlessly into the skin. It’s buildable, breathable, and flattering on all ages.
Lip Oils with a Tint
Say goodbye to drying lipsticks. French women have long used nourishing lip oils with a hint of color for their signature pout. Now, U.S. beauty lovers are following suit. These glossy, tinted oils hydrate while delivering a sheer wash of color that’s perfect for both holiday brunches and evening soirées.
Illuminating Skincare as Primer
In France, skincare isn’t a pre-makeup chore; it’s the main event. American women are now layering illuminating serums and moisturizers under makeup for that inner glow effect. Think vitamin C serums, glass skin creams, and pearl infused moisturizers that double as primers. This step smooths the canvas and adds depth to even the lightest makeup looks.
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The Subtle Winged Liner
Forget thick cat eyes, the French holiday liner trend going viral stateside is soft, lifted, and just enough. U.S. women are switching from bold wings to whisper-thin flicks that extend only slightly past the outer corners. Applied with pencil or dark brown eyeshadow, it defines without dominating. The goal is to elongate the eye most delicately.
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Tousled Hair with Hair Perfume
French women don’t over style, and now, neither do Americans. Holiday hair is moving toward loose waves, lived-in textures, and a spritz of sophisticated perfume to seal the vibe. It’s the finishing touch that whispers luxury. U.S. women skip rigid updos for undone buns and air dried looks that still feel polished.
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Subdued Shimmer on the Eyes
While U.S. holiday makeup has often leaned into glitter, French shimmer is soft, strategic, and supremely wearable. Americans are now blending champagne or taupe shimmer over the lids, not to stand out but to enhance. It catches the light subtly at holiday dinners or under twinkling string lights. No fallout, no mess, just a glimmer of elegance.
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Feathered Brows
Thick, blocky brows are out. In their place? Lightly groomed, feathered brows with a hint of tint and upward brushing. Inspired by French restraint, this technique emphasizes natural shape over sculpted arches. U.S. women are embracing brow gels, tinted serums, and clean brushes to get the look. The result is less “Instagram” and more lived-in luxury.
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Glowing Décolletage
French holiday beauty doesn’t stop at the chin, and U.S. women are now catching on. Highlighting the collarbones and shoulders with subtle shimmer or body oil adds instant glam to off the shoulder dresses. Whether a golden glow oil or a cream highlighter blended with lotion, the effect is sensual but never loud.
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The Blurred Lip Look
Inspired by French actresses, the “blurred lip” waves in U.S. beauty circles. Instead of precise, overdrawn lips, this look involves dabbing lipstick onto the center of the mouth and blending outward. It gives a softer, youthful effect like you’ve just sipped a glass of Bordeaux. No liner, no perfectionism.
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Rosy Under-Eyes
One of the more unexpected French beauty tricks embraced in the U.S. is adding a touch of pink under the eyes. It sounds odd until you see the effect. Light dabs of rosy cream or powder can counteract dullness and mimic natural warmth, like cheeks after a cold stroll. U.S. influencers and pro artists are embracing this for winter holiday glam.
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The No-Makeup Holiday Face
Sometimes, the best beauty move is restraint. French women are masters of wearing makeup that doesn’t scream makeup, and now U.S. women are echoing this with barely there looks. Tinted moisturizers, soft cream blush, brushed brows, and lip balm create the new holiday face.
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From pharmacy finds in Paris to red carpet favorites in L.A., the French holiday glow crosses oceans, and U.S. women are here for it. These effortless, skincare first beauty moves are replacing the full-beat glam of seasons past with something far more wearable and chic. Whether it’s a sheer tint, a feathered brow, or a scented tousle of hair, this new wave of minimal luxury makes an unforgettable statement.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information
The ’90s Blowout Is Back In Every American Salon
In 2025, the iconic ’90s blowout has made a triumphant return, dominating salons across the United States. Characterized by voluminous roots and bouncy curls, this hairstyle exudes confidence and glamour. Let’s explore why this retro style is captivating a new generation.
Read it here: The ’90s Blowout Is Back In Every American Salon
The Pearl Nail Look That Could Replace Chrome This Year
Chrome nails had their moment bold, flashy, and everywhere. But beauty is shifting, and pearl nails are quietly taking over. Soft, elegant, and endlessly wearable, they’re the new must-try trend. Read on to see why pearl is about to be your next obsession.
Read it here: The Pearl Nail Look That Could Replace Chrome This Year
American Women Are Bringing Back French Tips With A Modern Edge
Once the crown jewel of early 2000s manicures, French tips are back, but not in the way you remember. This time, American women are reinventing the classic white-tip look with bold colors, creative shapes, and contemporary flair. From celebrities on red carpets to everyday trendsetters on TikTok, the modern French manicure is now one of the most scroll-stopping nail trends in the U.S. Let’s explore 12 reinventions of French tips.
Read it here: American Women Are Bringing Back French Tips With A Modern Edge
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