Burnt toast theory: The warm, gourmand makeup look you’ll see everywhere

It’s warm all year round in Singapore, but that shouldn’t stop you from embracing the rich tones of the autumn-winter season — think chestnut, bronze, and amber. This TikTok-favourite makeup trend adds a natural warmth to the complexion with a versatile, understated finish that works just as beautifully for everyday wear as it does for evenings or more formal occasions. Inspired by the gourmand shades of toasted bread drizzled with caramel, the look combines earthy browns, golden highlights, soft apricot accents, and a touch of sun-kissed glow.

Sweet as a peach

For the cheeks, skip the usual pinks and corals and reach for apricot or brownish tones, pressing them gently onto the apples of your cheeks. Makeup artist Lasalle Lee suggests blending a peachy nude liquid blusher with a maroon or terracotta hue for a sultry, lived-in effect. Extend the color lightly across the nose bridge and around the eyes to mimic sun-kissed skin. Finish with a soft dusting of bronzer to sculpt the cheekbones — nothing too heavy or harsh. For the eyes, a swipe of bronzer or any warm-toned shadow subtly defines the lids and completes the toasty, radiant look.

Jam-filled centre 

With this gourmand-inspired trend, you can easily dial up the drama. For a bolder finish, outline your lips with a cocoa or mousse-toned liner, then fill in the center with a pinkish gloss or tinted balm to create a naturally plumped effect. Lasalle advises keeping the colour focused on the center of the lips to prevent the liner from bleeding. A soft wash of cherry-toned shadow completes the look, imparting a flirtatious golden hour effect.

Sweet tips

For this delicious twist on the toasted manicure, manicurist Rebecca Chuang of Fluttery Tips likens it to “chocolate from your childhood, with a bright red gummy surprise inside.” The secret to achieving that glazed, appetising finish? A shimmery top coat. Rebecca begins with a milk-chocolate base, then airbrushes a raspberry-red hue in the center. A chrome layer adds irresistible shine and a touch of visual intrigue, making the nails as eye-catching as they are sweet.

Credits

Photographer Angela Guo

Art director Adeline Eng 

Makeup Lasalle Lee using M.A.C 

Hair Marc Teng using Kerastase 

Nails Rebecca Chuang of Fluttery Tips

Model Maia B from Now Model Management