It’s no secret that the way you wear your makeup can influence how people perceive and interact with you. Many of the beauty trends we’ve seen this year have embraced the “soft girl” aesthetic, such as the “tomato girl” and “sugar plum fairy” makeup looks. But now, a bold new trend is taking over Instagram — and it’s the exact opposite. While summer was all about subtle and natural glam, winter is embracing something more commanding: the “man-eater” makeup look.
The hashtag #maneatermakeup is gaining traction on Instagram, with thousands of users putting their own fierce spin on the trend. The look is often described as “fierce,” “unapproachable,” and undeniably powerful. It’s become the go-to style for confident women who want to make a strong impression and exude major main character energy.
Curious to learn more about this attention-grabbing aesthetic? We spoke with two makeup artists who shared what man-eater makeup is all about — and how you can recreate the look at home.
What Is “Man-Eater” Makeup?
“Man-eater makeup is all about channeling your inner femme fatale,” explains one beauty expert. “It’s a captivating aesthetic that blends mystery, seduction, and strength. Think bold, moody eyes, sculpted contour, and statement lips.” With festive events on the calendar, now’s the perfect time to step away from soft glam and embrace this daring, dramatic style.
Another makeup artist describes it as “a powerful and straightforward look ideal for nights out or date nights.” Key elements include a sharp winged liner, smoky eyeshadow, long lashes, and overlined glossy lips.
Best of all, this look suits everyone. “Its popularity stems from the confidence and empowerment it evokes,” says a pro. “It encourages individuality and bold experimentation with makeup, regardless of skin tone, eye color, or face shape.”
How to Do Man-Eater Makeup
Want to give the trend a try? Here’s a step-by-step guide to nailing the look at home.
Start with your usual skin-care routine, paying special attention to moisturizing and using a primer to help your makeup last. Next, apply a full-coverage foundation evenly across your face. Follow up with concealer to brighten the under-eye area and cover any blemishes or unevenness. Set everything with a translucent powder to create a smooth, blurred finish.
Contouring is essential for this look. Use a contour kit or palette to define your cheekbones, jawline, nose, and forehead. Highlight the tip of your nose, cupid’s bow, cheekbones, and the center of your forehead for added dimension.
The eyes are the centerpiece of the man-eater look. Begin with an eye primer to ensure staying power. Use a fluffy brush to blend a medium brown shadow into your crease and outer corners for a smoked-out effect. Extend the shadow slightly for a more dramatic finish.
Once the smoky base is set, apply black liquid eyeliner to create a bold winged line on the top lash line. Extend the liner into the inner corners to form a mini wing at the tear duct for added intensity. For extra depth, trace the top and bottom lash lines with a black pencil liner, then smudge dark eyeshadow across the lower lash line for that sultry, smoky finish.
Amp up the drama with volumizing mascara. To really make your eyes pop, cut a pair of false lashes in half and apply the longer half to the outer corners of your eyes. This creates a lifted, fox-eye effect. Finish by brushing your brows into place with clear gel and filling in sparse areas for a defined, structured look.
When it comes to lips, use a bold lip liner to overline and define, then fill in with a complementary lipstick. Top it off with a shiny gloss for a fuller pout. Lastly, spritz your face with a setting spray to keep your look flawless all night long.
Man-Eater Makeup Inspiration
With a Bold Lip
This version uses a deep berry lip while keeping the classic smoked-out liner intact for a sultry edge.
With a Nude Lip
By keeping the lips neutral, this look brings all the focus to the intense smoky eye and highlighted inner corners.
With a Nude Lip
Using heavy liner in the waterline amps up the drama and gives the eyes a striking, fierce appearance.
With False Lashes
False lashes elevate the look even further, adding fullness and intensity to the eyes.
With an Ombré Lip
A bold ombré lip pairs beautifully with layered eye makeup that looks richly blended and captivating
Final Thoughts
The “man-eater” makeup trend on Instagram is more than just a bold beauty statement — it’s a celebration of power, confidence, and self-expression. Whether you’re heading out for a night on the town or just want to feel like your most empowered self, this look delivers impact with every step. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own — after all, the true essence of the man-eater aesthetic lies in owning your presence unapologetically.
