Beauty
Here’s how to ace your Christmas party look according to make-up artists
By George Wales
6 years ago
You’ve got your outfit sorted, now for your make-up – here’s how to create a look approved by the professionals…
By this point you’ve probably spent a huge amount of time trying to find an outfit for the office party that finds the magic sweet spot between “boring and conservative” and “morning-after-the-party meeting with HR.”
However… have you thought about what you’re going to do with your make-up?
To help you avoid another seasonal meltdown, we spoke to professional make-up artists Chynara Kojoeva and Warren Dowdall to arm you with all the hero products and creative inspiration you could need to see you through the season.
Festive inspiration incoming…
1. Low-maintenance lips
The classic red lip is a party-ready standard, but the downside? Constant smudging.
Chynara recommends using the Hyaluronic Sheer Rouge in No 7 Bang Bang from By Terry, but making the look lower-maintenance.
The secret? Applying the lipstick a couple of times, then blotting it and smudging the corners.
“By doing this, you get a statement lip that’s defined, but soft, and more forgiving,” she explains.
Problem solved – you’re all set to tackle the canapés.
2. Prep with concealer
Want to put the attention on your eyes? You need to start with a good canvas.
Sweep the Bobbi Brown Instant Full Cover Concealer under the eyes, and press it into the skin with your fingertips.
“The warmth of your fingers will help the product melt into your skin, to give you a smooth, seamless and natural finish,” says Warren.
3. Brighten up your complexion
By the time Christmas Day rolls around, the winter weather will likely have put your complexion through the wringer.
Give your skin a pre-party freshen up with By Terry’s Brightening CC Serum, a skincare/make-up hybrid with a subtle golden undertone.
Just the thing to counteract dullness without leaving a layer of heavy coverage.
4. Double-up on eyeshadow
This year’s killer Christmas look? Golden eyes.
Less faff than an elaborate smoky eye, you can create this one with just two Bobbi Brown eyeshadows.
Warren recommends the Golden Bronze Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick to create the perfect golden base, layered with the Luxe Eye Shadow in Moonstone for added sparkle.
Finish off with a coat of mascara and you’re good to go.
5. Give lashes length and volume
Want a simple way to create party-ready lashes?
Chynara swears by the Lash-Expert Twist Brush Double Effect Mascara from By Terry, which acts like a pair of mascaras in one.
“The first brush position, with the bristles in a straight line, provides length.”
“Then, when you twist the brush, the bristles switch into a spiral pattern that will give added volume.”
Easy.
6. Use a long-lasting foundation
If you’re going from desk to dancefloor, you really don’t want to be mucking around with reapplying your foundation.
Save yourself the bother by selecting a long-wearing product like the Bobbi Brown Intensive Skin Serum Foundation, and taking a bit more care with your application.
“Instead of simply smoothing it on, use a stippling motion to work the foundation into the skin for a long-lasting even complexion,” explains Warren.
7. Try a rosy glow
Want to get that wintry fireside glow, without feeling like you’re in the midst of a hot flush?
The Compact-Expert Dual Powder Setting Veil from By Terry is the perfect way to cheat the look.
Start by sweeping the darker, matte shade under your cheekbones for a subtle shadowing effect.
Then finish with a sweep of the lighter shade along the tops of your cheekbones, et voila – instant rosiness.
8. Define your base
Create a more sculpted look with the Bronzing Powder from Bobbi Brown.
As well as giving your skin a golden, bronzed look, it also adds some welcome definition – but how best to apply?
“Start at the outer edge of your forehead,” explains Warren.
“Sweep down past the temples and along your cheekbone, then finish by brushing the bronzer along your jawline.”
“If you get stuck, just think of it as a figure-three motion.”
9. Layer up for drama
It’s Christmas, so there’s no place for minimalism when it comes to your make-up.
Chynara recommends a dramatic, shimmery eye, by smoothing By Terry’s best-selling Ombré Blackstar eyeshadow along the lash line.
Then blend upward and outward and layer up for added drama.
10. Use a lip brush
Rather than a quick application in the cab, take the time to upgrade your lip game by using a brush to created a fuller, more sculpted effect.
The Luxe Shine Intense Lipstick from Bobbi Brown comes in a host of festive shades, with hyaluronic acid and vitamin E keeping them soft and hydrated.
Mistletoe optional.
For further party make-up tips, ask a partner in-store at John Lewis & Partners, or shop the beauty hub online.
Sign up for the latest news and must-read features from Stylist, so you don’t miss out on the conversation.
By signing up you agree to occasionally receive offers and promotions from Stylist. Newsletters may contain online ads and content funded by carefully selected partners. Don’t worry, we’ll never share or sell your data. You can opt-out at any time. For more information read Stylist’s Privacy Policy
Thank you!
You’re now subscribed to all our newsletters. You can manage your subscriptions at any time from an email or from a MyStylist account.