Key Takeaways

• Vampy makeup is evolving with a modern twist for 2026.
• Celebrity insights suggest embracing bold eyes and lips together.
• Occasion suitability is ideal for fun nights out, not daytime meetings.
• Step-by-step guidance is provided for achieving the look at home.

Vampy makeup is having a moment again, but the 2026 version isn’t the basic smokey eye and red lip you remember. As we head into fall, the Old Hollywood-inspired beauty trend is getting a fresh update with dark metallic-lined eyes, sculpted cheekbones topped with dewy highlight, and glossy black cherry lips.

Celebrity makeup artist Nick Barose, the force behind Lupita Nyong'o's stunning makeup looks during The Odyssey press tour, says the key to making the look feel fresh is not being afraid to play up both your eyes and lips. “There is this silly rule that says we should only pick one, but that is so not true, especially when you’re going for drama,” Barose told E!.

And this isn’t exactly a look you’re meant to wear to your next morning meeting. Barose describes it as perfect for “a fun night out with friends looking for trouble (the good kind!).”

So, how do you take the glamour of Old Hollywood and make it work for 2026? Barose broke down the look for us step by step. Below, shop eyeliner, mascara, metallic eyeshadow, contour and black cherry lipstick picks to get the look at home.