Minimalist Makeup: How to Create a Capsule Collection That Works
In a world where the beauty industry launches hundreds of new products every year, it’s easy to feel like you need them all. But here’s the truth: you don’t. As a professional makeup artist (and a busy mom), I’ve learned that less really is more when it comes to makeup.
Minimalist makeup is about simplifying your routine, choosing multitasking products, and curating a collection that fits seamlessly into your everyday life. Whether you’re short on time, looking to reduce clutter, or simply wanting a routine that feels more you, creating a minimalist makeup bag can be a game-changer.
Today, I’ll walk you through my tips for building a minimalist collection that gives you everything you need — without the overwhelm. Check out my video below or follow along with this summary.
Why a Minimalist Approach Works
My minimalist journey started over 10 years ago when I became a mom. Even though I’m a trained makeup artist, I couldn’t believe how much time people spent layering products and blending endless shadows. Between motherhood, work, and life, I didn’t have hours to dedicate to my makeup.
Minimalist makeup isn’t about sacrificing beauty. It’s about finding products that multitask, tools that do double-duty, and shades you’ll actually wear. It’s about building a capsule collection that saves you time, money, and space while still making you feel polished and confident.
1. Brushes: Multi-Purpose Tools Only
You don’t need 10 different brushes for every step. A handful of multitasking tools can cover all your needs.
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Dual-ended brushes are fantastic (think: spoolie + angled brow brush, or eyeshadow + liner). One brush, two functions.
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Flat eyeshadow brushes double as concealer brushes.
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Blush brushes can also set powder around the eyes.
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Blending brushes work for eyeshadow and blending concealer.
Tip: Shorter-handled brushes are compact, travel-friendly, and easy to slip into your everyday makeup bag.
2. Base Products: Choose What Works for You
Your base should be customized to your needs:
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Concealer: If you only need coverage in specific areas (dark circles, redness, blemishes), a liquid or cream concealer can double as your “foundation.” It can also be your eye primer.
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Tinted moisturizer or powder foundation: Great for light all-over coverage and evening out skin tone.
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Pressed powder: Works as a setting powder, a light foundation, or an add-on layer for extra polish.
👉 Remember: minimalist doesn’t mean bare-faced — it means choosing one or two versatile products instead of five.
3. Brows: Don’t Skip Them
Brows frame the face, and they’re one step you shouldn’t overlook.
Options:
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A matte taupe eyeshadow that can double as brow powder.
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A refillable brow powder that can also be used as eyeliner.
Tip: A spoolie brush is your best friend for brushing brows into place and softening product.
4. Multi-Use Color for Lips, Cheeks & Eyes
Here’s where minimalism really shines: multi-purpose color products.
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Cream cheek/lip color can be dabbed on cheeks, swept over eyelids, and patted onto lips for a cohesive, monochromatic look.
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Bronzer or blush powders double beautifully as eyeshadows.
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Tinted lip balms give your lips moisture while adding a wash of color. I also apply these Artifact lip balms to the cheeks.
This one-swipe approach keeps your routine fast while creating harmony across your features.
5. Mascara: The Desert-Island Product
If you wear just one product, make it mascara. It instantly opens the eyes, defines lashes, and pulls your whole look together — even when everything else is minimal.
Choose a clean mascara that lengthens and volumizes without irritating sensitive eyes (a must if you’re over 40 and finding your eyes more reactive to formulas).
6. Lips: Everyday + Special Occasion
For lips, aim for two key products:
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A neutral everyday shade that works with any look.
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A special occasion shade — a bold lip that makes you feel elevated for evenings or events.
You don’t need 15 lipsticks. Just two to three shades you truly love and wear often.
7. Refillable Palettes: Your Minimalist Secret Weapon
Invest in a refillable palette that allows you to customize your collection. This way, you can swap in new shades without buying entire compacts. It’s sustainable, space-saving, and ensures every product in your bag is something you’ll actually use.
I love customizable palettes from Pure Anada because they let you build your perfect capsule — neutral shades for everyday, a pop for special occasions, and no wasted pans.
The Minimalist Makeup Must-Haves Checklist
Here’s your checklist for a streamlined, effective collection:
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2–3 multi-purpose brushes
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1 concealer or tinted base
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1 pressed powder or powder foundation
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1 brow product
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1–2 multi-purpose cheek/lip/eye colors
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1 mascara
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2 lip products (neutral + bold)
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1 refillable palette
With this small but mighty collection, you’ll be able to create everyday polished looks and elevate your makeup when needed — all without clutter or overwhelm. If you’d like to work with me to customize something for you, check out my services here.
Final Thoughts
Minimalist makeup isn’t about owning less for the sake of it — it’s about owning the right things. By curating a thoughtful, capsule collection, you’ll spend less time getting ready, save money, and still feel radiant and confident every single day.
✨ Ready to start your minimalist makeup journey? Shop my curated collection of clean, Canadian beauty essentials at Green Beauty Curator. And if you have any questions, drop them here or in the video. I respond back to every single one.