By Joanne Donaruma Wade
I have always believed beauty and style are most powerful when they help us feel confident in who we already are.
I owned and operated Joanne’s Fashion Charm Modeling School in the ‘80s and 90’s, teaching girls ages 3 to 18 etiquette, self-improvement, confidence and modeling techniques. We met on Saturdays at the Sheraton Hotel in Downtown Utica, today the Delta Marriott.
I have fond memories watching young ladies develop their mindset to shape their self-image far more than their physical traits. They learned to stand tall, walk with confidence, care for themselves and communicate comfortably with others. To this day, I receive messages from former students saying, “thank you for helping me like myself.”
The message was always the same: trends can be fun, but they should never wear you.
For fall 2026, beauty is moving in a softer, more polished direction. Hair has warmth and dimension. Skin is healthy and radiant. Makeup feels lighter, enhancing rather than hiding. The best beauty choices are the ones that still feel like you.
We asked three Mohawk Valley beauty experts to share what they’re seeing this fall.
Amanda Stewart, FNP-BC, Owner Luxx Glo Beauty Bar
Healthy Skin Is the Goal
Hydrated, radiant skin is about skin health, not just adding moisture. When we talk about that “glow,” we’re looking at hydration, a healthy skin barrier, even tone, collagen quality and the skin’s ability to retain moisture. Beautiful skin is built through consistency.
I recommend starting with a medical-grade skincare routine tailored to your skin, daily SPF and ingredients that support collagen and cell turnover. Treatments such as radiofrequency microneedling, biostimulators and other regenerative therapies can help improve the quality of the skin from within.
Fall is one of my favorite times for skin rejuvenation. Neuromodulators like Botox remain popular for softening expression lines and maintaining a refreshed appearance without looking overdone. Instead of asking, “What can I inject?” I ask, “What does this face actually need?”
For women in their 40s, 50s and beyond, invest in skin quality and collagen first. Hormonal changes can affect hydration, elasticity, collagen and even how skin responds to treatments.
Don’t abandon SPF because summer is over. UV exposure is a year-round issue. You don’t necessarily need more treatment. You need the right treatment plan for where you are now.
Reach Amanda Stewart at luxxglobeautybar.com or 315-316-0014.
Joanne Fanelli, Owner, Joanne Fanelli Salon
A Fresh Look for Fall
As we approach fall, I always feel like clients are ready for a fresh look, and it’s exciting to mix current trends with what works for the individual.
This year, once again, there’s a rebirth of the bob, from mid-length to short. The overall silhouette has more fullness and bounce than in years past, with soft, intentional layering. Color is shifting, too, with spicy dimensional browns and blondes that are softer and more golden.
Brunette is anything but one-dimensional. From rich chocolate and warm caramel to cool espresso and softer ash tones, there’s a brunette for almost everyone. Darker tones can make the eyes pop and bring life back to most skin tones, as long as the color isn’t too flat or too dark.
For someone who wants an update without a dramatic change, face-framing or a short- to mid-length fringe can give a quick lift.
Summer can be harsh on hair, so I like peptides, clarifying shampoos, and pigmented shampoos and conditioners.
Reach Joanne Fanelli Salon at 315-732-5529.
Caitlin Hilts, Makeup Artist, Makeup by Caitlin Hilts
Makeup That Still Looks Like You
I think we are seeing a huge shift toward enhancing rather than covering! The really matte, full-coverage makeup that was popular for years is being replaced with fresh, skin-like finishes where you can still see someone’s natural skin and freckles underneath. Cream and liquid products, soft glowy cheeks, slightly fluffed brows, and more natural lashes are really popular right now.
Over my almost nine years of experience in bridal makeup, my clients have always wanted to feel glamorous, but now more than ever, they want to look like themselves—just elevated. It’s less about completely transforming the face and more about strategically enhancing someone’s favorite features!
For metallic eyes, I love using a soft champagne gold shimmer just on the lid or inner corner. It catches the light and makes the eyes pop without feeling like “too much” for everyday wear.
Fall is one of my favorite seasons for makeup because I love all of the warm, rich tones—chocolate browns, bronze, copper, terracotta, plum and burgundy.
If I could recommend one product to update your makeup bag this season, it would be the Saie Glowy Super Gel. Follow Catilin on Instagram or Facebook @makeupbycaitlinhilts.
