‘Ballet-Slipper Lips’ Are the Cool-Girl Makeup Trend to Try This Spring 2026
Nostalgia is leading the charge for 2026 beauty trends, and after revisiting 2016 matte lips, we’re digging even deeper into the archives. Enter “ballet slipper” lips: cool-toned pinks and frosty finishes that make the case for a beauty renaissance for the year 2000.
This winter, influencer Haley Sluss racked up nearly 2.5 million views on TikTok while trying L’Oréal Color Riche lipstick in Ballerina shoes. She paired the creamy, frosty formula with glowing makeup, topped off with babydoll blush and shimmery eyeshadow. The lipstick began selling nationwide and inspired many recreations. Fast forward to February 2026, and ballet slipper lips have become a major trend.
“The Y2K trend definitely pushed this trend to the forefront and TikTok exploded with it,” says Allan Avendaño, celebrity makeup artist with L’Oréal Paris’ League of Experts. In 2026, “this look also adds another dimension to other trends like glowing dewy skin and Douyin makeup,” he adds.
Ready for a flashback? Keep reading to find out how ballet slipper lips can fit into your current routine.
J. Merritt
What are ballet slipper lips?
Ballet slipper lips are characterized by their light, cool base shade and glossy, eye-catching finish. To nail the look, the goal is to make your lips look like the smooth, semi-reflective finish of pink satin. Most people opt for a frosted or shimmery finish rather than a juicy gloss (think silky rather than wet), but a top coat of sheer glitter gloss can have a similar effect.
