A black and white outfit is the ultimate classic—timeless, chic, and versatile. But when it comes to pairing makeup with such a monochrome look, the options are surprisingly vast and creative. Whether you’re heading to a formal event, brunch with friends, or just snapping pics for social media, the right makeup look can elevate your outfit from stylish to stunning. In this listicle, we’ll dive into 15 unexpected and flattering makeup ideas to wear with black and white ensembles. These aren’t your everyday combos—they’re curated to help you express your personality, experiment with new aesthetics, and even find the perfect gift-worthy products for yourself or a makeup-loving friend. From bold lips to whimsical eyeshadow, each look will inspire and empower you to step up your makeup game.
1. Cherry Red Lips and Soft Matte Skin
source @kingmalimagic
Nothing pops against a black and white outfit like a striking cherry red lip. The contrast brings a vintage yet bold energy that suits everything from cocktail parties to casual dinners. Keep the skin soft and matte to let the lips be the star. A touch of highlighter on the high points of your face adds balance without overpowering the look. Consider using a long-lasting red lipstick with blue undertones, which flatters most skin tones. For a perfect match, the Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink in “Pioneer” delivers vibrant color that lasts all day.
2. Metallic Silver Eyeliner and Nude Lips
source @stephumakeup
If you’re looking for something unexpected yet modern, swap your black eyeliner for metallic silver. It adds a futuristic touch and works beautifully with the neutral palette of your outfit. Pair it with a glossy nude lip to maintain balance. Keep the rest of your face neutral with minimal blush and soft contouring. The NYX Epic Wear Liner Stick in “Silver Metal” offers high-impact color with great staying power.
3. Mauve Monochrome Look
source @noopur_makeup
A full-face mauve look adds subtle romance to your outfit without clashing with the stark contrast of black and white. Choose mauve tones for your eyes, cheeks, and lips to create a harmonious yet noticeable statement. Blend well and add a dab of highlighter for a soft glow. This look is ideal for daytime events or cozy evening dinners. Try the Milani Most Wanted Eyeshadow Palette in “Rosy Revenge” for versatile mauve shades.
4. Graphic Eyeliner with Glossy Skin
source @lexilalamakeup
Graphic eyeliner adds a cool, editorial vibe to a minimalist outfit. Think sharp wings, floating creases, or double flicks. Balance the boldness with glossy, hydrated skin to avoid looking too severe. Use minimal color on the lips—just a swipe of clear gloss or balm. This contrast works perfectly for edgy occasions and creative photoshoots. Use the Stila Stay All Day Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner for precision that won’t budge.
5. Rose Gold Eyeshadow and Peachy Cheeks
source @neslismakeuphouse
Rose gold eyeshadow brings warmth and femininity to a stark black and white outfit. It gives your eyes a soft shimmer while still standing out beautifully. Add peachy blush to bring freshness to your cheeks and a soft pink lip to tie the look together. This makeup combo is universally flattering and ideal for weddings or romantic dates. The e.l.f. Bite-Size Eyeshadow Palette in “Rose Water” offers affordable, blendable shades perfect for this style.
6. Burgundy Smokey Eye and Matte Lips
source @next.door.diva
Burgundy eyeshadow adds richness and depth that complements the neutral tones of your outfit while still looking bold. Blend it out for a smokey effect and pair it with matte lips in a complementary shade like wine or berry. This look is sultry and perfect for evening events. To get the look, try the Revlon ColorStay Looks Book Eye Shadow Palette in “Enigma.”
7. Lavender Eyeliner and Flushed Skin
source @vera_pun
Add a playful, dreamy element to your monochrome outfit with lavender eyeliner. It’s subtle yet striking, especially against darker skin tones. Pair it with flushed cheeks and a barely-there lip tint for a soft, youthful vibe. This combination is especially fun for spring and daytime wear. The Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in “Psychedelic Sister” delivers bold lavender with smooth application.
8. Classic Winged Liner and Red Gloss
source @vera_pun
You can’t go wrong with a classic winged liner, especially when it’s paired with a high-shine red gloss. This makeup idea adds instant polish to any black and white outfit. Keep the skin dewy and the eyeshadow neutral to make the liner and lips the focus. This look channels old Hollywood glam while remaining current. The Fenty Beauty Gloss Bomb Heat in “Hot Cherry” adds the perfect amount of shine and color.
9. Bronze Glow and Nude Gloss
source @_divamaker
Bronze tones may not be the first idea for a black and white look, but they add warmth and depth in a surprisingly chic way. Go for bronze eyeshadow, bronzer, and a nude gloss to create a glowing goddess vibe. It’s perfect for summer events or golden-hour selfies. Milani’s Silky Matte Bronzing Powder and Wet n Wild MegaGlo Highlighting Powder in “Precious Petals” are great affordable picks.
10. Emerald Green Lower Lash Line
source @daniii_madera
For a pop of unexpected color, try lining your lower lash line with emerald green. This adds an artistic touch without overpowering the outfit. Keep the rest of the eyes neutral, maybe a soft taupe or beige shadow on the lid. A nude or rose-toned lip keeps the focus where it belongs—your eyes. The L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Last Waterproof Pencil Eyeliner in “Forest Green” is vibrant and long-wearing.
11. Blush-Heavy “Cold Girl” Look
source @rowisingh
Leaning into a winter-inspired look, the blush-heavy “cold girl” aesthetic pairs beautifully with black and white. Add extra blush to your cheeks and nose, keep your brows brushed up, and finish with a sheer pink gloss. The effect is cute, trendy, and cozy—ideal for winter events or holiday selfies. Use the Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush in “Happy” for a pigmented yet blendable formula.
12. Gold Inner Corner Highlight
source @ash_kholm
Sometimes all you need is a strategic pop of shimmer. A gold inner corner highlight can lift your entire eye look while keeping things minimal. Pair it with soft brown eyeshadow and a natural lip. This subtle detail adds elegance and brightness, especially great for evening wear. The Maybelline Master Chrome Highlighter in “Molten Gold” can double as both a highlighter and inner corner pop.
13. Muted Coral Lip and Bare Eyes
source @heartpercent_global
If you want something simple but fresh, go for a muted coral lip with minimal eye makeup. Just a little mascara and some brow gel will do. The pop of coral gives a modern twist without overwhelming the outfit. This works especially well for outdoor events, picnics, or travel days. Try Burt’s Bees Lip Crayon in “Sedona Sands” for a moisturizing and easy-to-apply lip color.
14. Shimmering Charcoal Smokey Eye
source @xk_blog
A shimmering charcoal smokey eye is intense, glamorous, and pairs perfectly with the high contrast of a black and white ensemble. Use a cream or metallic formula for extra drama and staying power. Finish with black eyeliner and a neutral lip to balance the look. This is perfect for formal events or evening glam. The Rimmel Magnif’Eyes Eye Palette in “Smoke Edition” has all the shades you need to master this look.
15. Blue Mascara and Clear Gloss
source @questionbeauty
Take a chance on color with bold blue mascara. It adds a playful element that surprisingly complements the simplicity of your outfit. Pair it with dewy skin, a bit of highlighter, and clear gloss for a youthful, trend-forward look. It’s a great conversation starter and ideal for casual days when you want to do something different. The Covergirl Lash Blast Clean Volume Mascara in “Pitch Blue” adds color without clumping.
Conclusion
When your outfit is black and white, your makeup becomes the statement piece—and the possibilities are endless. These 15 makeup ideas are curated to push your creativity, elevate your everyday style, and help you discover products that not only complement your wardrobe but also make great gifts for beauty lovers. Whether you go for bold graphic liner or soft monochromatic tones, experimenting with your look can be fun and empowering. Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone—your next favorite makeup moment might be just a swipe or blend away.