The holiday season is here, and it's time to get festive! Whether you're attending multiple Christmas gatherings or simply want to add some sparkle to your routine, there’s an abundance of makeup ideas to inspire you.
Trade your usual lip color for a bright red, layer on some eye-catching glitter, or add a little extra blush for a rosy glow. Holiday makeup doesn’t have to be tricky—discover 15 dazzling holiday makeup looks that are as fun as they are fabulous.
1. Bold Blush
Instagram/ @kaleteter
Cold temperatures naturally create a flushed look, and if you'd like to maintain this rosy glow throughout the season, blush is your best friend. Sweep a vibrant pink blush onto the apples of your cheeks in an upward motion for a fresh, radiant appearance. Pair it with a striking lipstick, like this stunning raspberry shade worn by Dove Cameron, to complete the look.
2. Classic Christmas
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A timeless holiday makeup choice is pairing a bold red lip with winged eyeliner. This iconic combination never goes out of style, adding elegance and glam to any festive event.
3. Twinkling Tinsel
Instagram/ @patrickta
Embrace the sparkle this season by adorning your lids with shimmering eyeshadow that mimics the twinkling tinsel adorning Christmas trees. Opt for a subtle blush and a neutral lip to keep your eyes as the main focus of this festive look.
4. Fluffy Lashes
Instagram/ @cherishbrookehill
Faux lashes are an excellent way to elevate your holiday look. Choose lashes that flare out at the outer corners to add drama and depth. Extend your eyeliner into a wing shape to perfectly complement the voluminous lashes for a festive, captivating appearance.
5. Shimmering Shadow
Instagram/ @davidrazzano
This is the season to wear shimmering, holographic eyeshadows. When layering lighter and darker shades, you’ll create extra dimension and contrast. Finish the look with a glossy lip for an ethereal, holiday-ready vibe.
6. Smoky Glam
Instagram/ @kaleteter
Deep, dramatic eyeshadows make for a stunning holiday look, especially when paired with a bold lipstick. A smoky black shadow works beautifully on the eyes, while a deep berry lipstick adds the finishing touch to your festive glam. This classic combination brings a polished and sophisticated edge to your makeup.
7. Metallic Eyes
Instagram/ @danessa_myricks
Nothing says "holiday season" like metallic eyeshadow. Play with different metallic shades to create a memorable, eye-catching look. Begin by applying a waterproof eyeliner along your top and bottom lash lines, then layer metallic eyeshadow to build depth. Don’t forget to clean up any fallout for a flawless finish.
8. Icy Lips
Instagram/ @nikki_makeup
If you prefer a more minimalistic approach but still want to embrace the holiday spirit, frosted lips are the way to go. Start with your usual makeup routine, and top it off with a lip color that has a frosty finish. This simple touch will add a chic, festive flair to your look.
9. Berry Festive
Instagram/ @kaleteter
For those who love bold colors but want something different from red, raspberry is a great choice. This hue is perfect for adding a pop of color to your look or creating a full monochromatic vibe. Pair it with mauve-toned eyeshadow on the lids, cheeks, and lips for a cohesive, festive finish.
10. Gilded Gold
Instagram/ @kaleteter
Gilded gold is a perfect hue for both Christmas and New Year’s celebrations. Apply a metallic gold eyeshadow to the lids, whether in powder or cream form, and blend a darker shade into the crease for added depth. This festive and glamorous look will surely shine throughout the season.
11. Metallic Silver
Instagram/ @makeupvincent
Regina King dazzles in this bold metallic silver eyeshadow, which extends outward into a wing shape. Combined with black eyeliner and falsies, this shimmering look takes a classic smoky eye to the next level for a stunning holiday-ready appearance.
12. Merry and Bright
Instagram/ @nikki_makeup
If you’re in the mood for creative and daring makeup, go bold with vibrant colors this Christmas. This dramatic pink look, with its metallic shadow and lipstick, will certainly turn heads. The lively hues reflect the season’s cheer and are sure to leave a lasting impression.
13. Elegant Smoke
Instagram/ @nikki_makeup
For a sophisticated holiday look, a classic smoky eye paired with sculpted, glowing skin and defined lips can do wonders. Kelly Rowland showcases how to bring festive drama with ease, making this makeup look both elegant and effortlessly chic.
14. Siren Eyes
Instagram/ @nikki_makeup
Winged eyeliner is an easy yet dramatic way to enhance your eyes. Extend the liner from the inner corners to the waterline for a siren-like effect, paired with bold brows and a rosy lip. Adding a little extra drama to the eyeliner extends the look even further for the ultimate eye-catching finish.
15. Holiday Statement
Instagram/ @nikki_makeup
For a quick and impactful holiday look, opt for a bold matte red lip and leave everything else bare. If you're short on time but want to make an impression, a swipe of red lipstick will instantly elevate your complexion and transform your natural look into something glamorous.
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