Full out glam

So you are thinking ahead to that Christmas party or even further ahead to New Year’s Eve and you want a different look. You want to go full out glam, but this is a time when the makeup artist’s schedule is packed. There are a few things you can do yourself to achieve the look you want.

Before you settle on a look, consider your outfit. If you are wearing something bright and festive, like a bright red top, a colourful patterned dress or statement jewelry, keep your makeup very simple.

What kind of event is it and what is the venue. If it’s a dance party and the venue is a club which is darkish inside, you can choose a dramatic makeup look. If it’s dinner and there is bright lighting, keep the makeup softer and more natural, and stay away from shimmer and sparkles.

Start by applying a face primer that suits your skin type (matte for oily skin, hydrating for dry skin).

Then use a foundation with light to medium coverage

Christmas tree apart, indoor décor these days tends to be something with which the homeowner/decorator can make a statement. An indoor staircase is a perfect foil for such décor.

Railings, newel posts and bannisters are where the decorations should go. Putting anything on the stairs/steps could get in the way and cause tripping. You to even out your skin tone. Apply a thin layer of product to avoid a “cakey” look. For a flawless look, apply under eye concealer, only where darkness is — tilt your head down and apply concealer where the dark shadows are. Pat and blend gently until it looks smooth.

If you have any blemishes, apply a concealer that matches the colour of your foundation, and blend it to make it look seamless. Then set your base with a translucent powder.

If you have full, well-groomed eyebrows, simply shape with a clear brow gel. If you have bald spots and/or an irregular brow shape, fill them in with a brow powder or pencil. Use a light hand to fill in the sparse areas so they look more natural.

You can apply an eyeshadow primer all over the lid to create a smooth base before putting on your eyeshadow. The colours you use will depend on your outfit and where you are going.

Apply black eyeliner (liquid, pencil or gel, according to your preference) along the upper lash line, creating a wing. Add one or two coats of mascara.

Add a soft blush colour to your cheeks. Choose one that suits your skin tone.

If your eyeshadow is shimmery, you can go with either nude or red lipstick. Your lipstick choice should also compliment your outfit. do not want accidents at Christmas.

Styles to consider include garlands in green, gold or silver, depending on your colour scheme. Ribbons and bows will show up newel posts and spots of colour – red, white, gold, silver or green decorations add a nice contrast. Christmas lights add a nice finish and look exceptionally good at night. Go all out, but don’t go overboard!