Prepping your holiday makeup look can be as easy as darkening up daytime colors for a more dramatic effect. If you’re brave and want something more festive, the spirit of the holiday season allows freedom of cosmetic expression and might even involve some glitter. If you’re looking for a new way to stay current and still look fabulous, here are some tips and ideas for a great holiday look:
Classy & Shimmery
This season, two classic looks are the favorites, and it’s all about balance. Try a smoky, shimmery eye with a muted lip or a bold pair of lips with a softer eye, but never play up both eyes and lips. That makes you look more Halloween and less winter holiday.
Light tinted moisturizers, well blended and nearly invisible, are also in this season, with the focus on either eyes or lips. Shimmer is still a holiday favorite, and can be added in several ways:
- Dusting shimmer to the corners of the eyes and cheek bones.
- Applying a shimmery lipstick or gloss.
- Using a glitter mascara or eyeliner.
- Blending liquid shimmer into foundation.
- Buying a shimmer stick to roll-on the cheeks, etc.
But don’t overdo it. A hint of shimmer is the best look to aim for, so don’t try to apply more than one shimmer product to the face in any one look.
Colorful Expression
If you prefer trying out new colors and trends during the holidays, try spicing up your look with some holiday colors. This year, some classic colors are still in:
- Christmas Red: Adding a dramatic, bold red to the lips shows confidence and draws attention to the mouth. Plus, a true red lipstick can brighten the teeth instantly.
- Holiday Gold: For real glamour, add gold to the eyes, fingernails, and even foundation. Citrus, bronze and copper tinted eye shadows blended with traditional colors are fun and festive. Mixing liquid gold shimmer with a liquid foundation gives the skin a warm, healthy glow.
- Ever Greens: For adventurous cosmeticians, adding a touch of green to the eyes can truly make them pop. Green eyeliners (or dark shadows applied as an eyeliner), especially when combined with gold tones, will accentuate the eye dramatically. Pair this look with a little black dress for a muted, festive look.
Keep It On
To make the holiday look last all party long, make sure you prep before and pack supplies to be prepared. Use a primer beneath foundation or tinted moisturizer and on the lips and eyes, so color lasts. Always set the look with powder (loose or pressed is fine) to help it stay on. For items like mascara, liner, and lipstick, applying a second coat goes a long way.
At the party, be sure to bring oil-blotting sheets to absorb sweat and oil from the face. These should be used instead of powder, which can cake if over-applied. Oil-blotting sheets do not remove makeup, so they’re safe to use all night long. Also pack your lipstick and mascara, just in case!
References:
- Derrick, J. “Holiday Beauty Tricks and Tips.” About.com Beauty. Retrieved November 11, 2009.
- Vassen, D., Finley, A. “Holiday Makeup Tips.” Love To Know. Retrieved November 11, 2009.
