2025 Brisbane Formal Season: Trending Makeup and Hairstyles
It’s that exciting time of year again —2025 Formal season has officially arrived, and we can already see some standout beauty trends emerging! This year, we’re witnessing a perfect harmony between polished elegance and a relaxed, radiant glow.
The teenage crowd seems to be finding a harmonious balance between effortless natural beauty and soft glam, creating a stunning aesthetic that’s both fresh and approachable.
Let’s take a closer look at the main trends in makeup and hairstyles that are making waves this season.
The Golden Balance in Makeup
This year is all about that enviable “golden balance”—makeup that enhances rather than masks. The goal? A look that appears effortless but still radiates a touch of glamour.
Luminous, Fresh Skin
Say goodbye to heavy, full-coverage foundations—2025 is all about letting your natural beauty shine through. Opt for a sheer, dewy foundation or tinted moisturizer that evens out your skin tone while allowing your natural radiance to take centre stage.
Cheeks That Pop
Blush is making a major statement this season! Cool-toned pinks and soft lilacs are adding a playful, youthful vibrancy to the complexion, making them a must-have for formal night. For those who prefer a bit more warmth, classic peachy-brown tones remain a go-to, sculpting the cheeks with a natural flush that transitions seamlessly from day to night.
Glossy, Defined Lips
Gloss is back in a big way, but with a modern twist—defined yet natural-looking lips. Instead of sharp, overlined edges, this season embraces a softly blended lip liner in shades that match your natural lip tone or are just a hint deeper. The finishing touch? A clear or tinted lip gloss that catches the light beautifully, giving a plump, hydrated effect without the sticky feel.
Lush, Voluminous Lashes & the Return of the Winged Eye
This year’s lash game is bold, flirty, and undeniably eye-catching! Thick, voluminous lashes that channel 60s-inspired glamour are taking center stage.
Whether you opt for falsies or simply layer on a few coats of your favorite mascara, the result is wide, doll-like eyes that captivate. And the cherry on top? The winged eyeliner is making a major comeback!
For a softer, more wearable take, try using a brown pencil liner and smudging it out for a smoky, sultry effect.
Effortless, Low-Maintenance Hair for the 2025 Formal Season
Now that we’ve covered makeup, let’s talk about hair. This year, we’re seeing a shift toward effortlessly elegant hairstyles that complement any formal gown without looking overly structured or rigid.
Think soft, voluminous textures, undone waves, and perfectly imperfect updos.
The Reign of the Bun
A chic bun is THE hairstyle of the season, and it’s easy to see why. Not only does it frame the face beautifully, but it also allows your dress to take center stage. Whether you prefer a sleek, polished finish or a messier, romantic vibe, the bun is endlessly versatile and always sophisticated.
Trending Styles to Consider:
Hollywood Waves – Nothing screams old-school glam like soft, voluminous waves cascading over one shoulder. If you want something slightly more relaxed, opt for tousled curls instead.
High Ponytails – Whether sleek and glossy or textured and voluminous, the high ponytail is a go-to for instant glamour.
Textured Buns – The “effortless but chic” messy bun is having a moment, especially when paired with face-framing tendrils for a soft, feminine finish.
Braided Updos – Incorporating braids into an updo adds an extra touch of refinement, making the look feel polished yet youthful.
Tips for Choosing Your Hairstyle:
- Hair Length: Select a style that flatters your hair length, whether you have short, medium, or long locks.
- Face Shape: Consider how different hairstyles will complement your face shape to enhance your features.
- Dress Style: Match your hairstyle to the overall vibe of your dress for a cohesive look.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, choose a hairstyle that makes you feel confident and beautiful—your comfort shines through in your style!
How The Pros Keep You Looking Flawless Even With The Brisbane Heat
With the heat and humidity that Brisbane girls need to consider for 9 months of the year, achieving a long-lasting, picture-perfect formal look is no easy feat.
That’s where a professional hair and makeup artist makes all the difference.
Their expertise goes beyond just creating a stunning look—they use industry-tested techniques to ensure your makeup and hair hold up through pre-event photos, the before party, the dance floor, and even the after-party.
A professional makeup artist doesn’t just apply products—they layer and set them strategically so that they last.
Pro Techniques for Makeup That Lasts All Night
- Priming the Skin with Precision – Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, professionals use primers tailored to specific skin types. Mattifying primers help control shine in humid conditions, while hydrating primers ensure a fresh glow without excess oil.
- Layering for Longevity – The secret to makeup that won’t budge? Thin, buildable layers. A pro will buff in lightweight foundation for even coverage, then lock it in with fine-milled setting powders in targeted areas like the T-zone.
- Seamless Powder & Cream Balance – Makeup artists expertly blend cream and powder formulas, using cream blushes and highlighters for a natural glow before setting them. This technique prevents the dreaded cakey effect while increasing wear time.
- Professional Setting Sprays – A professional-grade setting spray isn’t just a final mist—it’s applied in layers throughout the makeup process to enhance longevity. Some formulas create a mesh-like barrier, keeping sweat and humidity from breaking down the makeup.
- Waterproofing Where It Counts – From budge-proof brow products to waterproof mascara and gel liners, pros ensure that even the most expressive moments—laughing, crying, or dancing—won’t cause smudging or fading.
How Hairstylists Keep Your Look Photo-Ready Until the After-Party
- Heat & Humidity-Resistant Styling Products – Professional hairstylists prep the hair with humidity-blocking serums and weightless setting sprays that prevent frizz while maintaining movement.
- The Pin & Cool Method for Lasting Curls – Instead of simply curling and spraying, stylists use the pin-and-cool technique, allowing curls to fully set before brushing them out. This locks in shape and ensures waves last long after the last dance.
- Invisible Grip for Sleek Styles – For those opting for sleek ponytails or buns, pros use a combination of styling powders and lightweight gels to keep hair in place while maintaining a soft, touchable finish. Hidden pins and micro-elastics secure styles without weighing them down.
- Custom Styling for Your Hair Type – Every hair type reacts differently to heat and humidity, so a professional tailors their approach. Fine hair may get extra texture-building products, while thick hair may need stronger hold formulas to keep volume in check.
With expert techniques and high-performance products, a professional hair and makeup artist ensures your look stays fresh and flawless from the moment you step in front of the camera to the last dance of the night.
Whether you’re twirling under fairy lights, posing for golden-hour photos, or heading to an after-party, your beauty look will be as stunning at midnight as it was when you first stepped out the door.
So, book your glam team, embrace the trends, and get ready for a formal season where you’ll look—and feel—absolutely incredible!
With these tips and trending styles, you’re ready to rock the formal season with hair that is as effortless as it is stunning! Get ready to slay and feel fabulous!
Get in touch to book your appointment now!
