By Aliana Moss
Hello Holidays! This time of year can feel like it’s moving fast with a calendar filled with events, parties, dinners, shopping… and the list goes on. We’ve got to simplify where we can, so I’ve put together a quick guide of easy looks that will suit any event(s) you may have during this magical time of year.
Keep these favorite easy go-to holiday beauty looks in your pocket to pull from so you look party chic in no time—while looking like you took all the time in the world!
Social at the School or Office?
Get Cheeky
Rosy blush is your best friend at any age and automatically gives a more youthful and vivacious appearance. The goal level here is a ‘you made me blush’ look. Or perhaps an ‘I just got off the slopes’ flush. During the winter months, a cream blush is especially lovely, providing a more natural, dewy glow. Layering a powder blush over the cream base is key. Here’s how: after your base foundation is done, apply three dots of cream blush on each cheek, making a triangle. (Try Ilia Multi-Stick Cream Blush, Neen Going Rouge, Makeup by Mario Soft Pop Plumping Blush.) Use your fingers or a synthetic brush to blend up and out first, then blend any leftover inward and down slightly. If you find you blended too much and the color has faded, simply go back in and repeat. Next, use a big fluffy blush brush or fan brush to top with your powder blush, repeating the same directional swoops. (Try RMS Beauty Redimension Hydra Powder Blush.)
Pro Tip: Any extra product on the brush can be swiped over the bridge of your nose and buffed over eyelids. I like to pair a really rosy look like this with a sheer lip (either gloss or balm), brushed-up brows, curled lashes, and a coat or two of mascara.
Time to Soiree?
Lips Spread Cheer
Nothing says it’s the holidays more than a bright, cheerful red lip. Think Rudolph—reds so bright you’ll be the light at any party you attend for the night. First, make sure lips are exfoliated from any signs of chapping, and then prep with a non-glossy lip balm. (I love Chanel Boy De Chanel Lip Balm.) Using a matching lip pencil to your lipstick—or one only slightly darker—create your perfect outline. Then fill in your lips completely with the same pencil. (Try Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat in Red Carpet Red.) Next, apply your lip color on top. If you’re concerned about migration, make sure to stick with long-wear formulas. (Try MAC Powder Kiss lipstick or liquid lip in Ruby Woo and MAC SMASH, NARS Powermatte Lip Pigment in Dragon Girl.)
Pro Tip: Reverse line the outside of your lips using a flat concealer brush loaded with some pressed powder. (Use a shade that matches your skin or is slightly lighter for a highlight effect.) This helps prevent lip color from spreading and also helps perfect the shape to clean up any small smudges you might have. Lastly, smile at how festive you’re feeling, and don’t forget to check your teeth before going out!
Dinner Party?
Eyes that Sparkle and Shine
A fun way to brighten eyes of all ages without the mess of glitter is to use a metallic eyeliner in silver or gold. Find a liquid formula if you’d like to go bold with a winged look. (Try Fenty Beauty Glitty Lid Shimmer Liquid Eyeliner in Mel’odic Moves, Make Up For Ever Aqua Resist Color Ink 24HR Waterproof Liquid Eyeliner in 07 Silver Storm.) Or use a pencil formula you can smudge along the top and/or bottom lash line for a more subtle look that still makes your eyes shine. (Try Haus Labs Optic Intensity Eco Waterproof Gel Eyeliner in Titanium Shimmer, Victoria Beckham Satin Kajal Liner in Gold Lame.)
Pro Tip: I also love to double up and use a brightening nude eye pencil along the bottom waterline, which brightens and pops the eyes to the max. (I love Surratt Beauty Inner Light Baton.) Your eyes will be the center of attention, so try not to distract by keeping the rest of the face in neutral tones.
Happy wishes to all for a beautiful and beauty-filled holiday season!
Like these tips? Have questions? You can find me on IG @alianamoss 💋
