‘Tis the season to sparkle! Whether you’re hosting the whole family, keeping things low-key or wanting to make a splash at the (virtual or IRL) company gathering, we’ve got your back with holiday hair, makeup and manicure ideas to get you through the season looking your most fabulously festive without breaking a sweat.
Go one step bigger.
You don’t need to go all out just because it’s the holidays, but if you have the urge to zshush up your beauty routine just a bit, think of it this way: go one step bigger than usual. If your makeup look is simple and natural, add lipstick. If you always wear your hair straight, try curls or a high ponytail. Change up your part and bring the Hollywood vibes with a deep side part, or use a volumizing or thickening spray to pump up your style. For a festive look that doesn’t take a ton of time, up the glamour by a notch or two. You’ll still feel like yourself but will shimmer just a bit extra.
Put a little glitter on it.
Nothing says “holiday party” quite like sparkle. We’re not saying you need to shellac your hair with glitter hairspray like you did back in the day — although if you’re all about that look, we support it! Add a bit of shimmer to your beauty look for a touch of holiday cheer without going full Liberace; think a pretty vintage brooch (maybe a family heirloom!) in your hair, a sparkling cat-eye or a ruby red glittering manicure that matches those pretty gift bows. Dust a bit of gold shimmer on your cheekbones and brow bones or get ready to ring in the new year with shimmering silver eyeshadow.
When in doubt, go red — or gold and silver.
Certain shades just bring the holiday vibes no matter what, especially bright poinsettia red or glimmering metallics that mimic the colors of a menorah or vintage glass ornaments. If you’re not sure how to bring a holiday vibe to your beauty look, opt for one of those shades. Think a red lip or red velvet bow for a romantic touch. Bring the holiday spirit via your manicure in seasonal shades; you could go classic with a red and green French manicure or get creative with metallic star or bow nail art on your tips and toes.
Accessories make the moment.
Just like a beautiful ribbon or sprig of holly enhances a pretty package, accessories can make all the difference in your holiday look — and they’re so easy! We’re huge fans of sparkling hair combs and gilded barrettes for a hint of glimmer and glam. Pull your hair into a low bun, wrap a piece around the base to cover the elastic, and add a few sparkly bobby pins or a comb. Pull your hair half up and pin it with a bow or accent your favorite hairstyle with a headband. Velvet, plaid or metallic textures are perfect for this time of year and are basically the simplest way to upgrade your style. Try a “bubble” ponytail and add a pretty ribbon to each section, or embellish a braid with a shimmering metallic tie. The options are endless and will take you from the early days of December to midnight on New Year’s Eve. Happy holidays!
