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Start with a Glowing Base
The key to any great makeup look is a flawless base, and for the holidays, it’s all about that healthy, glowing complexion. Radiant skin serves as the perfect canvas for any holiday look, whether you’re going for a natural glow or a more dramatic, contoured look.
What to Expect:
Use a hydrating primer to ensure your makeup lasts all night. Look for primers with light-reflecting particles for an added glow.
Consider a dewy foundation or a tinted moisturizer for a fresh, natural finish. If you prefer full coverage, opt for a long-lasting foundation that evens out your complexion without feeling heavy.
Pro Tips:
Apply a highlighter on the high points of your face (cheekbones, nose bridge, cupid’s bow) to achieve a luminous, holiday glow.
For a little extra shimmer, use a liquid highlighter mixed with your foundation for an all-over dewy look.
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Bold Eye Makeup: Glitter, Liner, and Smoky Eyes
Eyes are the focal point of most holiday makeup looks. Whether you’re going for a soft, subtle look or a bold, glittering eye, the options are endless. In 2024, expect to see shimmering eyeshadows, graphic eyeliner, and deep smoky eyes dominating the holiday scene.
What to Expect:
Glitter and Shimmer:
Holiday makeup and sparkle go hand in hand. Add a bit of sparkle to your lids with glittery eyeshadows, whether in gold, silver, or iridescent shades.
Bold Eyeliner:
Graphic eyeliner is making a statement this season. Whether it’s a winged liner or a bold colored eyeliner, make sure your eyes stand out with sharp, defined lines.
Smoky Eyes:
A smoky eye look never goes out of style. Create depth and drama with darker shades like charcoal, deep burgundy, or rich brown.
Pro Tips:
For a glittery look, use a glitter primer to ensure the shimmer stays put all night long.
If you’re going for a bold cat-eye or graphic liner, make sure the rest of your makeup is balanced. Opt for a nude lip or soft blush to let the eyes take center stage.
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Luscious Lashes for the Perfect Finish
Nothing completes a holiday makeup look quite like full, voluminous lashes. Whether you prefer mascara or false lashes, the goal is to open up your eyes and make them pop.
What to Expect:
Lash Extensions or False Lashes:
If you’re looking to make a statement, consider adding false lashes or opting for semi-permanent lash extensions to create a bold, fluttery effect.
Voluminous Mascara:
For a more natural look, a coat of volumizing mascara is perfect. Focus on the roots of your lashes and build layers for added drama.
Pro Tips:
Curl your lashes before applying mascara for a lifted, wide-eyed effect.
For extra volume, apply two coats of mascara and wiggle the wand at the base of your lashes to ensure a thick, defined look.
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Perfectly Defined Brows
Well-groomed, defined brows are a must for any holiday makeup look. They frame the face and help balance out the dramatic elements of your eyes and lips.
What to Expect:
Whether you prefer a bold brow or a more natural, feathery look, defined brows are a must. Fill in any sparse areas with a brow pencil or pomade that matches your hair color.
Consider using a brow gel to set your brows in place and add a little extra volume, especially if you’re going for a fuller brow look.
Pro Tips:
Use a brow pencil with a fine tip for precise application and a more natural finish.
Highlight your brow bone with a small amount of highlighter or a light eyeshadow to make your brows appear more lifted.
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Bold Lips to Match the Festivities
A bold lip can transform any makeup look, especially during the holiday season. Whether you choose a classic red, a deep berry, or a daring metallic, a statement lip will make you stand out at any holiday event.
What to Expect:
Classic Red:
A true red lip is always in style, especially around the holidays. This timeless color pairs perfectly with almost any makeup look.
Deep Berry or Burgundy:
If you’re looking for something a bit more sophisticated, deep berry and burgundy shades are perfect for a rich, festive vibe.
Metallic Lips:
For those looking to try something a little different, metallic lipsticks are a fun way to add some holiday cheer to your look.
Pro Tips:
Before applying your lipstick, outline your lips with a lip liner to ensure sharp, clean lines and prevent feathering.
If you’re going bold on the lips, keep the rest of your makeup minimal with soft blush and neutral eyeshadow to let your lips be the focal point.
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Blush and Contour for a Sculpted Look
Adding a bit of blush and contour can help define your face, giving you a fresh and sculpted appearance that works beautifully with your holiday makeup.
What to Expect:
Blush:
Opt for shades like warm peach, soft pink, or a cool-toned berry for a healthy flush. The key is to apply blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend upwards towards your temples for a lifted look.
Contour:
For a more defined face shape, a bit of contouring along the cheekbones, jawline, and temples can add dimension to your makeup.
Pro Tips:
Blend your contour well to avoid harsh lines—natural-looking shadows always give a more flattering result.
Use a fluffy brush for blush to avoid applying too much product at once.
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Dewy Finish for a Fresh, Radiant Look
A dewy finish is all the rage for holiday makeup in 2024. It gives you that fresh, youthful glow and is perfect for both day and night looks.
What to Expect:
Use a hydrating setting spray or a dewy finish setting powder to lock in your makeup while keeping your complexion glowing. A little extra highlighter on the cheekbones or nose bridge can make your skin look lit-from-within.
Pro Tips:
Use a setting spray with a dewy finish to lock your makeup in place while giving your skin a luminous glow.
Avoid overly matte foundations, as they can make your skin appear dry. Choose a hydrating foundation for a fresh, plump appearance.
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Finishing Touches: Setting and Touching Up
Finally, after you’ve achieved your desired look, ensure that it lasts all night long with the right setting products.
What to Expect:
Setting Spray:
A good setting spray is key for ensuring your makeup stays in place throughout the festivities, especially if you’re moving between indoor and outdoor environments.
Touch-Up Products:
Keep a compact powder, lipstick, or lip gloss handy for touch-ups during the evening.
Pro Tips:
Mist your face with setting spray from a distance to avoid disrupting your makeup.
Keep blotting papers handy to absorb any excess oil without ruining your makeup.
