Christmas party season is upon us, so give you eyes some extra sparkle with statement eyeliner and bold colours
Smouldering eyes and red lips always prove popular at this time of the year. But I’m also getting quite a lot of requests for statement eyeliner. This always looks good on an almost bare lid, so it stands out.
One thing I love to do at the moment is create shading in the socket using earthy nudes and then line the lashes with a dark brown, black or blue liquid liner. Then, directly next to that line, I will use a contrasting liquid liner in gold or pink to make the statement. Urban Decay has some great metallic liquid liners and their Wired Transforming Liner (£18, urbandecay.co.uk) has black liquid liner at one end and a transforming metallic powder at the other. It’s available in five different colourways.
If you love a smoky eye then why not use shades of deep blue on the moveable part of the lid? This can be a refreshing alternative to browns, and looks great with brown eyes. If you have blue eyes then try olive or khaki greens for a pop of contrast. Green eyes can rock lilacs and deep purples, but don’t forget to tap off excess shadow and press the product on, rather than use a brush, which can scatter the pigment so it ends up under the eye.
If you’re going for bold eyes, then do them before your foundation in case there’s any fallout under the eye. Subtle lip colours also look great with dramatic eyes.
Eyebrows are discreet yet groomed this season, with brushed-up fluffy brows taking a back seat. I was never a big fan of that particular look, so it’s nice to see a more natural brow making a comeback.
If you’re going to try the double liner look then team it with a bold lipstick such as fuchsia pink or classic red.
Shimmer and highlighter can really enhance your look, but be careful where you use it. A light dusting on top of the cheekbones, a smidge under the eyebrow and a touch around the Cupid’s bow can all look sensational, but take care to avoid heavy glittery products – otherwise you may be best suited to adorn your Christmas tree!
Emani Vegan Illusion Quad Eyeshadowin Mulholland Drive, £26 emanivegan
These four shades are so versatile, and have a buildable formula that can take you from subtle daytime eyes to party peepers. I especially love the golden shade: it gives a festive feel and looks great on the inner corner of the eyes or even added to your favourite matte red at the heart of the bottom lip.
Chantecaille Lip Cristal, £43 chantecaille.co.uk
If you want an instant festive feel this stunning opalescent pink lipstick enhanced with pearl pigments should do the trick. The buildable lightweight formula glides on the lips, creating a soft shimmering effect. Plus, for every Lip Cristal sold, a tree will be planted by the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust in Kenya.
IT Cosmetics Beautiful Together Eye Trio, £30 itcosmetics.co.uk
Superhero mascara in black, Superhero No-Tug eyeliner in black and Brow Power pencil in taupe are great for glam-on-the-go eyes. Try the eyeliner inside the waterline if you want a smouldering look.
