The holiday season is the perfect time to embrace bold and dazzling makeup looks that reflect the magic and sparkle of the festivities. Whether you’re attending a cozy family dinner or a glamorous New Year’s Eve celebration, there’s a festive makeup look that will elevate your style. Here are some exciting and easy-to-achieve holiday makeup ideas to try this season:
1. Glittery Eyeshadow for a Sparkling Gaze
Nothing says “holiday glam” quite like glitter! Shimmery eyeshadows in gold, silver, or deep jewel tones like emerald or sapphire add a festive touch to your eye makeup. Opt for a full-glitter lid or use a glitter eyeliner to line your eyes for subtle sparkle. Pair it with a neutral matte crease to balance the look and keep it from being too overwhelming.
Pro Tip: Use a glitter primer or setting spray to keep the shimmer in place all night long!
2. Bold Red Lips for Classic Elegance
Red lips are a timeless holiday staple that exudes confidence and sophistication. From classic true reds to deeper, vampy shades, the options are endless. Choose a formula that suits your style—matte for long-lasting wear, or glossy for a fun, fresh feel. Red lips pair perfectly with minimal eye makeup, like a soft winged liner or a smudge of mascara for a chic, elegant finish.
Pro Tip: Make sure to line your lips with a matching lip liner to define the edges and prevent feathering.
3. Smoky Eye with a Twist
For those who want to go a bit sultrier, a smoky eye with a holiday twist is a great option. Instead of the classic dark shades, try metallic tones like bronze, copper, or even burgundy. These warm hues will bring out the festive vibe without feeling too harsh. Add a pop of shimmer in the center of the eyelid for added dimension and to make your eyes stand out even more.
Pro Tip: Blend, blend, blend! The key to a flawless smoky eye is seamless blending to avoid harsh lines.
4. Rosy Cheeks and Glow
Nothing says festive more than a healthy, radiant glow. Dust a soft pink or peach blush on the apples of your cheeks for a natural flush, and don’t forget to highlight the high points of your face—cheekbones, brow bones, and down the nose. A luminous highlighter will give your skin a beautiful, lit-from-within glow that mimics the twinkling lights of the holiday season.
Pro Tip: For a truly festive touch, add a little shimmer to your blush for an extra glow!
5. Icy Touch: Frosted Eyes and Lips
If you’re feeling bold and want something a bit different this season, consider a frosty-inspired look. Think cool-toned silvers, pale purples, or icy blues for the eyes, paired with a soft nude or frosted pink lip. This look is fresh, ethereal, and perfect for those winter nights when you’re embracing all things chilly and magical.
Pro Tip: Use a creamy eyeliner in white or silver on your waterline to make your eyes appear larger and more awake.
6. Metallic Eyeliner for a Pop of Shine
If you’re not ready to commit to a full-on glitter look, metallic eyeliner is a great way to add some festive flair to your makeup routine. Go for gold, silver, or even a bold metallic green or blue. You can apply it along your upper lash line for a chic twist or create a graphic cat-eye for a bold statement.
Pro Tip: Layer the metallic liner over a neutral eyeshadow base to make the color pop even more.
7. Feathered Brows for a Natural yet Polished Look
While bold brows can be fun, this season is all about embracing natural-looking, feathered brows. Brush your brow hairs upwards using a clear brow gel or soap brow technique to give your brows a full, lifted appearance. This minimalist look is perfect for pairing with any of the bold eye or lip looks listed above.
