Can you believe that we’re literally just a few weeks away from 2024? I know I can’t. Hell, I still remember exactly where I was, what I was doing, and even what I was wearing when we all rang in 2000 — and now, look at us. *le sigh*
Anyway, the reason why I decided to pen this particular piece is because I’ve got some women in my world who like to be up on the latest beauty (and fashion) trends, long before others are — and so, I penned this with them (and the women who are just like them) in mind.
If that is indeed you, please take out a sec to check out some of the things that will be pretty damn popular when it comes to make-up, hair, and even nails next year. All are relatively affordable (except for maybe one), all are easy to implement into the beauty routine that you currently have, and as a Black woman, all are ones that you can step out in and totally dominate with.
Are you ready to check out 12 beauty trends for 2024 that you can show the world as soon as today?
Beauty Forecast: 12 Beauty Trends Set to Dominate 2024
1. Side Parts
Although I’m a “middle/center part” gal myself, and a trend isn’t really gonna change that (LOL), if you are a huge fan of side parts, those are gonna be all the rage next year whether you choose to wear your hair up (which could create a side fringe) or down.
Something that’s cool about this particular look is, if you’re someone who happens to have fine hair and you want to create some volume, a side part can create that for you. Or, if you’re in the process of trying to grow out your hair and one side is longer than the other (which is completely normal, by the way), instead of constantly cutting the longer side (in order to make everything “even”), a side part can give the illusion that your hair is a bit asymmetrical…on purpose.
2. Colorful Eyeliners
Whether you want to make your eyes the focal point of a particular make-up look or you want to add something that can seamlessly take you from day to night — eyeliner has you covered. In 2024, rather than going with a traditional neutral color, seek out ones that are as bold and bright as possible. You can use a bold blue on your waterline to give your eyes more depth (if your eyes are a dark brown, it can make them stand out more, too) or a neon color to make a “winged eye” that could be fun when you’re going out with your girls. This trend is basically a reminder to have fun with your make-up next year. Life is short…why not?
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3. Mushroom Extract
Something that was building in popularity last year that will get even bigger next year is mushroom extract being added to skincare products. Apparently, the properties in mushrooms can do everything from deeply hydrate and soothe irritated skin to brighten up dark spots where hyperpigmentation may be an issue. Since mushrooms are rich in zinc (which is great at treating acne and eczema), selenium (which helps your body to produce antioxidants) and several forms of vitamin B (which reduces aging signs) — it would make sense that this vegetable would get its moment in the beauty world spotlight.
A word of caution, though: if, like me, you have a fungal sensitivity, do remember that mushroom is a fungus, so…to be on the safe side, this might be a trend that you’ll have to take a pass on.
4. Three-in-One Products
It wasn’t too long ago that CNN published an article on some of its editors’ favorite “multiuse” products. That’s because something else that you’ll be seeing more of is people opting for beauty-based items that they can use for more than just one thing: eyeshadow that can be used as a blush and maybe even a lip color base or foundation that also works as a concealer and finishing powder as well. If one of your plans is to ring in the new year with at least one less junk drawer, you can always get more space in by purchasing three-in-one beauty products. It’s an ultimate hack on a few different levels.
5. “Random” Rhinestones
The feature image for this article? The reason why I chose it is because it’s something else that is gonna be big in beauty over the next several months. Sure, rhinestones are pretty common on the nails (and sometimes even on eyelids); however, you’re gonna see them being randomly placed on hair, the face, the arms…chile, everywhere. So, if you’ve already decided that next year is the year that you really want to make a statement, add some rhinestones to some of your looks. Hell, invest in some Swarovski crystals while you’re at it; they definitely provide a solid “bling” effect!
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6. Balletcore Nails
If you adore the look of super feminine nails, then this trend has your first, middle, and last name all over it.
If you’re wondering what the heck balletcore nails are, they’re nails that are designed in such a way where they look very similar to a ballet slipper — the shape of the shoe and color. The dope thing about this trend is, as far as the hue of pink and length of nails, you can totally customize it to your liking.
Anyway, I think we’re gonna see a whole lot of this in 2024 — so why not stroll into the holiday season with a set of ‘em?
7. Hair Ribbons
Speaking of ballet, when it comes to the signature hairstyle (the bun), it’s pretty common to see hair ribbons that are wrapped around them, right? Well, when it comes to hair accessories, ribbons are about to be EVERYWHERE, y’all. Ribbons interwoven through braids. Ribbons tied around ponytails. Ribbons used as headbands. So, if you’ve got a daughter and you like to dress her tresses up with ribbons, looks like she’ll be sharing them with you in 2024. Have fun!
8. Biodegradable Beauty Products
The mere fact that, in America, 350 metric tons of plastic is wasted on an annual basis — that should be reason enough for us to want to be more intentional about supporting the sustainable side of the beauty industry. A specific way to do that is to purchase beauty products that are biodegradable. From what I’ve (briefly) read and researched on the topic, because this is still a relatively new trend in the cosmetics world, some companies are abusing “biodegradable” in the way that a lot of food companies misuse the word “organic.”
Still, if you want to get more into doing what’s best for the environment as far as your own beauty products are concerned, looking for ones that are vegan (a cool list is here, here, and here) is a great place to start.
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9. Embellished Chrome Nail Designs
Although I personally don’t wear it a lot (when it comes to make-up), I do like the look of chrome. It has a way of being modern and yet timeless at the same time. Plus, it’s very sleek and works well with the various skin tones of our ethnicity quite well. And even though chrome-polished nails have been around for several years now (as far as popularity goes), the next few seasons are going to showcase chrome nails that have designs on them or an upgraded French manicure where the tips are chrome (you can see an example of what I’m talking about here). I could see this look getting you a lot of compliments for Christmas. Just something to keep in mind as your holiday party invites get ready to roll in.
10. Genetic-Based Beauty Items
Are you wondering what the heck “genetic-based beauty items” are? I feel you. If the first thing that comes to your mind is genetic testing that, people get to find out more about their DNA, apply that to the cosmetics world, and there ya go.
Bottom line, as futuristic as it might sound, the beauty industry is now getting into genetic testing so that people can discover what works best when it comes to their own personal pigmentation, how their skin ages, and what their specific hair needs may be.
One at-home test is here. Another is here. (This is the one not-so-cheap thing that I referred to in the intro, by the way.)
11. The Look of Minimalism
Sometimes, I’ll just sit on YouTube and look at different hair and make-up tutorials — just for fun. And when it comes to mastering the “no make-up, make-up” look, Sincerely Zee (here), Dimma Umeh (here), Tea Renee (here), Naakie Nartey (here), and Fatima Bah (here) all did a pretty impressive job (with the look and showing you how to create it for yourself.) Yeah, one of my favorite things about the whole minimalism trend is it’s such a standout reminder that less really can be more, in the most visually beautiful ways.
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12. The Color Red
I’m a fan of color psychology. So much, in fact, that I wrote an article on it for the platform back in the day: “Understanding Color Psychology Will Sharpen Your Lens On Life.” Well, when it comes to the color red, whether it’s on your nails, lips (Black women look STUNNING with red lipstick on), even eyes — it’s the shade that’s gonna be hard to beat next year. I ain’t got one problem with it either since red represents things like love, passion, sexiness, desire, and strength.
In fact, I can’t think of a better way to walk — or strut — into the new year than with that kind of energy, can you? So, whatever you do, remind yourself to pick up a few red cosmetics. You’ll be the belle of the ball for the holidays, for 2024, and when it comes to life, in general, if/when you do. Now get to beauty shopping, sis!
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RELATED
Yet, in many relationships, we instinctively look to men to set the pace. They define the relationship and they decide when to move things forward, from exclusivity to proposals and beyond. But just because we decide to take the "follower" role to them as leaders and operate in the feminine mode of receiving instead of chasing doesn't mean we have to wait in vain.
Vetting the men in our lives is just as important as recognizing their ability to lead in relationships. And if being commitment-minded is a top priority for you, here are some signs to look for in a man who is ready for a commitment.
1.He Talks About Commitment
Abc Love GIF by The BacheloretteGiphyUndeniably the biggest sign that a man is ready for commitment is that he talks about commitment. But here's the kicker, that commitment talk is grounded in action, not just words. "I want something serious" is followed by consistent movement towards you that doesn't wax or wane due to time passing or a busy schedule.
Some men might start off strong but fade off into inconsistent effort. Others might be love-bombers making grandiose statements early on with no true intention of building something real aside from playing the game. Whether it's planning a trip together, deeper conversations about life, or long-term plans, a commitment-ready man talks about these topics naturally and without force and backs it up by following through.
And that's the sign of a man who is committed. He shows you who he is by aligning his words with steady, consistent actions over time.
2.He Integrates You Into His Life With Ease
A man who is ready for commitment prioritizes integrating you into his life. From making long-term plans to introducing you to his circle to considering you when making decisions, you're not treated like an after-thought, or like someone he only makes time for when it's convenient. He treats you like a priority, not an option.
He doesn't keep you at arm's length, he actively brings you into his world and he follows through with real integration into his daily life. The commitment-ready man includes you and doesn't just sell you a dream of what could be; he shows you through consistent action the reality of what will be.
3.He Shares His Inner World
GiphyVulnerability is a verb and a man ready for a commitment is well aware of that fact. Just as he brings you into his outer world, he lets you into his inner world, sharing things like his dreams, fears, past experiences, etc. He isn't afraid of his vulnerability and isn't afraid to trust you with his emotions. A commitment-ready man is an emotionally available one, so he can also create emotional space for you that is secure enough to support you in bringing up concerns, having tough conversations, and requiring emotional security.
A commitment-ready man also doesn't save his vulnerability for moments of crisis or in a way that's transactional like to guilt-trip you or stop you from walking away. Instead, the groundwork for true emotional intimacy to thrive in your connection is an effort you're both making, even in everyday conversation.
4.He Resolves Conflict In Healthy Ways
All relationships have ebbs and flows, and another truth that people would rather not admit about relationships is conflict is a necessary part of them. I've heard couples who wear their admission about never fighting as a badge of honor. And while I believe what works for you works for you, I also believe in this quote: "A relationship’s strength is measured by how it weathers the storms, not just the sunny days."
Weathering the storm sometimes means there will be conflict, making healthy conflict resolution a necessity in relationships. A man who is ready for commitment knows this. So instead of stonewalling, withdrawing, or treating you like you're crazy for bringing up a concern, he is going to actively work with you to resolve issues together.
A committed man doesn't allow challenges to push him away from you, he leans in. He listens, he genuinely wants to understand your point of view on things, he acknowledges, and he takes accountability when needed.
5.He Is Comfortable Defining Things
If you've ever been stuck in limbo, you know it's not the place to be. Unsettled, unsure of where things are going, second-guessing his intentions for you, and therefore also second-guessing the connection. Whether it's hesitancy or avoidance or keeping things in a perpetual gray area of "going with the flow," a man does those things not because he is unsure, but because he isn't where you are. Otherwise, there'd be no limbo.
A man who is ready for commitment doesn't leave room for your question. His desires are clearly stated, as are his movement towards you and defining the relationship overall. He’s clear about what he wants, he doesn’t shy away from conversations about the future, and he doesn’t waver. Most importantly, he follows through on that clarity because commitment isn't something to avoid, it's something to build.
6.His Love for You Is Proactive and Not Reactive
Not going to lie, I am someone who loves a good love story where the central conflict is the man waiting until the last minute to go "get the girl" in some grandiose gesture where he finally professes his undying love for her. In real life though, I'm so good on that. However, it doesn't stop it from being how some men operate. Some men will only step up their efforts and energy when they feel you've pulled back your energy or have decided to walk away.
Those men suddenly feel a compulsion to try harder because the threat of losing you inspires their action. So then comes the affection, the presence, hell maybe even the presents to show you how much you mean to them. And that can be all well and good if the inspired action is something that's there to stay, but typically it doesn't lead to any long-term shifts.
A commitment-ready man though? He wouldn't wait until you're withdrawing to show you actions that are steady, intentional, and rooted in a desire to nurture the connection and therefore the relationship. His love isn't performative and it doesn't come from scarcity. He doesn't need a dramatic push to show up for you, he shows up for you consistently because he wants to.
Instead of waiting until the last minute to reassure you what is true to him, he makes you feel secure in all ways always. Speaking of which...
7.His Actions Are Secure
GiphySay it with me, commitment isn't about passion or chemistry, it's about stability. How do you feel when you are around this man? Does he make you feel calm, respected, and emotionally safe? Those are the signs of a man whose actions towards you make you feel consistently secure. Plus, he doesn't just wait to pull out all the stops to show you his intentions for you until you're fed up and ready to leave. And that my dear is a sign that you might be dealing with a man ready for commitment.
Unlike emotionally unsafe individuals, love-bombers, or users, the connection isn't riddled with high highs and low lows, shrouded in confusion, or an emotional rollercoaster where a willingness to overly accommodate or great sex blinds you to the glaring incompatibilities. If you're left wondering where you stand or if the slightest bump in the road means he'll pull away, that's a red flag. The man who is ready for you provides security in a variety of ways and does so consistently.
When it comes to matters of the heart, we are all works in progress striving to put that work into practice.
Even so, none of us ever really "arrive" at some perfect place where we have it all together and have it all figured out. We are all learning, growing, unlearning behaviors, and healing wounds through our relationships with other people. The signs above aren't an exhaustive list or a list meant to aid you in seeking perfection in another person. Instead, these signs are more about recognizing indicators of maturity, emotional health, and true readiness in a relationship while navigating the dating scene.
The true key is not to search for perfection in a potential partner but instead to look for consistency. A man who is ready for you might not always get it right, but he will always try. Most importantly, he is the kind of man who makes you feel secure through those efforts. Happy vetting, ladies!
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