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How To Create A Unique Makeup Look

When it comes to makeup, I really like to highlight one feature in particular. If I’m doing a bold lip, I like to keep the eyes a bit fresher. If I’m dedicated to a smokey eye that evening, I’m probably going to stick with a more neutral or sheer gloss. My features tend to get overwhelmed by two competing areas, but makeup is all about experimentation!

If you aren’t accustomed to wearing makeup or you simply want to branch out from your everyday look, I highly suggest taking some time in your day to experiment. Maybe you love the way a bold lip and dark eye look together on your face. Whatever it is, find what you like; there are absolutely no rules when it comes to makeup! 

What are some fun ways to easily upgrade your holiday makeup?

If you had to conjure up a mental image of “holiday makeup looks,” I’m sure the first thing that comes to mind is something involving lots of sparkle and red lipstick. While I will certainly be donning this exact look at least once this December, I also think it’s valuable to play with makeup and try fun, fresh looks. 

Below are some cool and creative looks to test out for any holiday parties you’ve got coming up this season.

Pops of Periwinkle

Shadow doesn’t have to go all over the lid in the same way a shimmer has to go in the inner corner of the eye! This look is perfect for a beginner wanting to test out inventive looks. Go simple with a fluffy brow gel, nude lip, and a bold periwinkle to highlight your eyes. Add your favorite pinky blush and you’ll be getting compliments all night long. 

Recreate the look:

Champagne Sparkle Shimmer

If you want to shimmer like the star on top of a tree this holiday season, this look is truly perfect for you. Pull no punches with a cream eye shadow; I promise it will last you well into the new year. Add a pair of wispy false lashes to flutter all night long, and complete the look with a deep pink lip oil. Glamorous, yet understated! 

Recreate the look:

Gold And Olive Grunge

A sultry smokey eye doesn’t always have to be made with neutral shadows. Lean into green with this show stopping eye look. This shadow duo could not be more perfect to complete the look: utilize the dark green on the outer and inner corner and be sure to leave plenty of clean lid space. Tap the gold shimmer into the center of your eye and finish your lips with a dark nude shade. Add faux freckles if you’re feeling feisty and go pour yourself another eggnog. 

Recreate the look:

Finish The Look: Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Lipstick & Liner Set

Cranberry Kiss

These mesmerizing duo-chrome eyes and bold cranberry lip will guarantee that you’ll be kissed under the mistletoe. Start strong with the blue before blending out with a solid pink shadow–or in this case, blush! Finish even stronger with a long-wearing liquid lip, topped with the glossiest gloss there is. Play around with your makeup and use it in ways it may not have been intended to–the results will thank you. 

Recreate The Look:

Finish The Look: Essence Extreme Shine Volume Lipgloss

Star On Top of the Tree

Don’t just look at the stars, become the stars. This is a classic example of gold shadow done new for the holidays. Experiment with shape and placement to create an entirely new look. Use this stunning gold highlighter all over the face and use a gold liquid liner to finish off the sun rays. You will literally glow all night long. Bonus points if you go completely monochrome and wear gold, too!

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Red and Green Glam

If you’re going to be bold, be bold. Rock the signature Christmas colors and then some with this totally beautiful, over-the-top look. My advice? Don’t overthink it and try to have fun while applying this look. Smudge out your shadow, apply your lipstick, and throw on some face pearls wherever you feel necessary. I promise, you’ll look fabulous. 

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Twiggy Twinkle Eyes

Okay, maybe this Twiggy inspired cut-crease isn’t exactly new, but that doesn’t mean it’s any less fun! You really can’t go wrong with a bold color and a strong graphic eyeliner. To achieve the iconic clumpy bottom lash, apply your mascara of choice and pinch your lashes together (carefully!) with tweezers. You’ll be everyone’s 1960s dream girl! 

Recreate The Look:

Red Hot Graphic Eye

Don’t shy away from a color as bold as red, embrace it. A matching graphic liner and blush color is a total recipe for success in my book. You’ll be the coolest of the cool girls, even when your makeup is looking red-hot. 

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Glowing Lips and Skin

Really, nothing is more classic for the holidays than a smokey eye, glittery lip, and fluffed up brow. However, if you really lean into all of the elements of this look, you can make it feel fun and exciting every single time. Go all out with the eye, really fluff up the brow, and make the lips as glittery as possible. Bonus points if you go so far as to put a champagne highlighter on before the gloss. 

Recreate The Look:

Finish The Look: NYX Professional Lift & Snatch Eyebrow Pen

Bold Glitter Brow

Last, but certainly not least, is everyone’s favorite 2023 makeup trend: the boldest of brows. Pick up a clean spoolie and dunk it in your silver liquid shadow. Run it through your brow hairs until you’ve reached your desired coverage. Keep the rest of the look simple with dewy skin and strong lashes. Art isn’t just meant to be given, this season, you’re meant to become it. 

Recreate The Look:

Whatever look you choose this December, I hope you found inspiration from our list of inventive holiday makeup looks. Remember, whatever you rock this winter, do it with intention and confidence. That’s the best look of all!