Romanticizing the French Look (and Why It Still Works)
Parisian beauty has long been the envy of the world. Yes, it might sound cliché to say so—but clichés often carry a grain of truth. For decades, the world has admired the French approach to beauty, with its refined elegance, seemingly effortless charm, and timeless aesthetic. But the truth is, French beauty has evolved—and in 2025, it’s more inclusive, expressive, and layered than ever.
The core idea behind this transformation? A quiet revolution led by multicultural voices, global fashion shifts, and a growing appreciation for authenticity. As Paris-based aesthetician Sophie Carbonari puts it, “French makeup has undergone a subtle but powerful evolution. It’s no longer just the minimalist aesthetic we knew in the early 2010s. Thanks to multicultural influences and voices like Aya Nakamura, we’ve moved toward a more inclusive and expressive beauty standard.”
Today’s French beauty isn’t confined to nude lips and tousled buns—it’s bolder, more experimental, but still rooted in that famous je ne sais quoi.
Redefining the French Girl Aesthetic
There was a time when the French girl beauty playbook looked a little something like this: glowing skin, bare eyes, and a bold red lip. While that formula still holds a sacred place in the Parisian canon, there’s a new energy at play.
Enter French Makeup 2.0—a delicate balance of classic effortlessness and modern boldness. “There’s a casualness to it,” says French makeup artist Violette Serrat, founder of Violette_FR. “People are always asking how to look effortless, and I usually say: The only way to look effortless is to be effortless. That’s really the secret. It’s five minutes in the bathroom, not 50.”
In other words, confidence is the new contour.
The 5-Minute Parisian Routine: What’s In, What’s Out
For those of us inspired by this refined approach to beauty, the goal is clear: Do less, but do it well. It’s not about skipping self-care, but rather, stripping away the unnecessary and refining the essentials. Here’s what the Parisian pros consider must-have—and what they recommend leaving behind.
Step One: The Skincare Base
Before any color touches your face, skincare is the cornerstone. French women are known for their glowing, healthy skin—and they achieve it not with 10-step regimens, but with smart, purposeful choices.
According to Jeanne Damas, founder of Rouje, the key is multitasking products. “I actually use a creamy SPF 50 as my moisturizer,” she shares. “It keeps my skin fresh, protected, and glowing. No need for an extra cream.”
Sophie Carbonari takes a slightly more detailed approach (unsurprising, given her background in skincare). Her three key steps are:
Hydration with Hada Labo Gokujyun Premium Lotion – A deeply moisturizing toner-lotion hybrid. Niacinamide Serum from The Ordinary – To calm inflammation and even tone. S Serum (her personal staple) – For targeted nourishment before applying makeup.
The idea? Let your skincare do the heavy lifting, so makeup becomes the accent—not the armor.
Step Two: The Skin-But-Better Base
Parisian women don’t hide their skin—they enhance it. Foundation, if used at all, is applied sparingly and only where needed.
For 2025, lightweight skin tints, tinted moisturizers, and complexion balms are preferred. Look for products with dewy finishes that blend seamlessly with your skin. Tools like fingers or a damp sponge (never a heavy brush) keep the application sheer and natural.
Skip the heavy contouring or baking. Instead, use a soft cream blush—preferably in a rose or peach shade—applied high on the cheeks for a healthy, just-back-from-the-market glow.
Step Three: A Hint of Eye Definition
While the 2010s were all about smoky eyes and sharp brows, French beauty has gracefully moved away from over-sculpted looks. Brows are groomed, not drawn. A swipe of brow gel is usually enough.
Eyeshadow, if worn, is subtle and monochromatic. Neutral tones like taupe, soft brown, or even warm peach work beautifully. Mascara is a staple—especially on the top lashes—to open the eyes and add femininity.
For nights out, a smudged liner or a wash of shimmer adds a touch of drama without veering into overdone territory.
Step Four: The Iconic Lip (Still Reigning Supreme)
The red lip remains a staple in French beauty—but in 2025, the rules around it are looser. It doesn’t have to be perfect. In fact, a smudged or blurred lip is even more Parisian.
“The French aren’t aiming for perfection,” says Violette. “A stain on the lip, as if you’ve just had wine or kissed someone? That’s the vibe.”
That said, many Parisians also opt for subtle nude or pink tints for everyday wear. Lip oils, stains, and creamy formulas are preferred over matte or long-wear types.
Step Five: The Finishing Touch—Or Lack Thereof
Forget setting sprays, glittery highlighters, or over-powdering. French makeup ends when the face looks like you, just a little more rested, glowy, and alive.
A touch of highlighter—preferably liquid and dabbed on with fingertips—may find its way onto cheekbones or brow bones. But it’s not a rule.
Ultimately, French beauty is about restraint. Knowing when to stop is part of the allure.
The Modern Parisian Mindset
What truly sets French beauty apart isn’t the products—it’s the mindset. French women wear makeup because they want to, not because they feel obligated to. Their routines aren’t rooted in insecurity but in pleasure—an approach that’s both empowering and refreshing.
Beauty is seen as a celebration of the self, not a correction of flaws. It’s a quiet confidence that whispers instead of shouts.
In Violette’s words: “You have to enjoy it. You can’t fake that.”
To Sum It Up (Without Saying ‘Conclusion’)
French beauty in 2025 is more than a trend—it’s a philosophy. One that embraces authenticity, inclusivity, and intention. It’s about expressing who you are, not who you’re told to be. Whether you’re dabbing on a favorite serum or swiping on a red lip, the message remains the same: effortless beauty is born from comfort, confidence, and clarity.
So go ahead—take your five minutes, find your balance, and step into the world like a modern Parisienne.
