Just when we’d all collectively accepted slick buns, barely-there blush and the tyranny of the “clean girl” aesthetic, Zara Larsson came along and said, absolutely not. Well, honestly, “summer isn’t over yet”, it’s rather actually throwing on neon eyeshadow, glueing gems to its temples and dancing directly under a fake sun at full volume.
If you’ve opened Instagram lately, chances are you’ve clocked Zara somewhere on your screen. She’s popping up dancing with fans, serving hyper-saturated visuals, and reminding us why pop stars used to look like actual pop stars. Her current beauty era is loud, nostalgic and deliciously unserious, and that’s exactly why it works.
This isn’t makeup you quietly wear to brunch. This is stage glam energy, borrowing from Y2K icons, childhood makeover games and that unhinged 2016 YouTube beauty era where nothing was blended, and everything was bedazzled. The look? Sun-kissed skin, aggressively cute blush, sorbet-coloured lids and sparkle everywhere. It’s playful, maximal and joy-first, a reminder that makeup is meant to be fun. And frankly, we needed that reminder.
So if you’re ready to ditch beige and re-enter your glitter era, here’s how to get Zara Larsson’s Midnight Sun glam (no European tour required).
How To Achieve Zara’s Maximal Midnight Sun Makeup
1. The Base
The foundation of this look is skin that looks like it’s just spent an irresponsible amount of time in the sun, minus the actual damage, obviously. Start with a medium-to-full coverage foundation with a warm undertone. Keep it matte, yes, matte is back because the shimmer comes later. Then pile on blush. Not politely. Sweep it high across the cheeks and over the bridge of the nose for that faux-sunburnt effect.
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2. Blush
If you think you’ve applied enough blush, apply more. Zara’s look leans into exaggerated colour placement, youthful, bold and slightly chaotic in the best way. Layer cream blush first, then set with powder blush in a similar shade. Blend upwards towards the temples and don’t shy away from intensity.
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3. Eyes
This is where the Midnight Sun glam really earns its name. Pastels, brights and candy-coloured shadows dominate, often paired with graphic shapes or soft washes of colour. Prime your lids thoroughly; colour payoff is non-negotiable. Sweep vibrant shades across the lids and slightly beyond the crease. Don’t over-blend; a bit of rawness adds to the playful effect.
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4. Rhinestones, Gems And Glitter Everywhere
Yes, this is your sign to finally use those gems you panic-bought online. Apply rhinestones along the outer corners of the eyes, temples or even across the brow bone. Secure with lash glue or cosmetic adhesive. Finish with loose glitter pressed onto high points of the face.
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5. Lashes and Liner
Clean girl lashes need not apply. Go for thick, wispy false lashes or layer mascara until you reach cartoon levels of volume. Add a soft wing or smoked liner if desired.
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6. Lips
Matte lips? In this economy? Absolutely not. Line lips slightly outside your natural shape and top with high-shine gloss. Think juicy, plush and borderline edible.
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Key Takeaways
Zara Larsson’s maximal makeup moment taps into a collective craving for joy, nostalgia and self-expression. After years of minimalism dominating beauty trends, this feels like rebellion, colourful, chaotic and utterly unapologetic. It’s not about perfection; it’s about personality. And honestly? That’s far more fun.
FAQs
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Is this look wearable in real life?
Just dial it up or down. Skip the gems for daytime or keep the blush bold but eyes soft.
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Do I need expensive products to recreate it?
Drugstore brands are killing it with pigments, glitter and lashes right now.
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How do I make it last all night?
Primer, powder and setting spray are your best friends. Lock it in as your life depends on it.
