Trust me these are the 6 most beautiful make-up looks for the festive period
Full drama to pared back
We all spend Christmas Day differently, from traditions to dress codes. While my family has always been super chill about Christmas and usually stick to the PJs and loungewear look, I know lots of other friends who get super dressed up for their festive lunches.
So it makes sense that we all have our own idea about Christmas Day beauty too; from those who keep it make-up-free to others who like to go all out with a touch of glitter or a statement lip. That's why I've selected six make-up looks that would suit a variety of different Christmas plans, from super laid-back vibes to the ultra-glam. Let these inspire you for the big day.
1. Cinnamon
A post shared by rhode skin (@rhode)
A photo posted by on
It would be remiss of me not to mention the cinnamon girl aesthetic as a legitimate Christmas option, which is everywhere at the moment, from trending manicures to new product launches. Take for example Rhode's limited edition Cinnamon Glaze Peptide Lip Treatment, which sent the internet into a frenzy with its gorgeous caramel tint and festive shimmer. Sadly, this product is now completely sold out, but the Rhode line as a whole can definitely help you achieve this look, with plenty of gorgeous warm brown tones across the lip and cheek offerings.
2. Modern red
A post shared by Allan Avendaño (@allanface)
A photo posted by on
I adore this lip look from make-up artist Allan Avendaño, which sort of straddles that space between neutral nude lipsticks to bold reds. A brick red still makes an impact but has a gorgeous muted character, meaning it's a gorgeous choice for Christmas Day plans with family or friends. Try Merit's lipstick in Tiger, which I've found to be the best brick red around. Pair it with jet-black winged eyeliner for a flawless finish.
3. Double mauve
A post shared by Meron Aboye Sengal Artist (@meron_aboya)
A photo posted by on
I love a chic matchy-matchy look, and this one celebrates this beautiful mauvey-pink hue, which is so pretty for special occasions. One of my favourite single eyeshadows of all time is Merit's Solo Shadow, and the colour Social offers that perfect mauve-clay-pink shade that looks stunning washed across the lid. Pair the colour with a pink-toned neutral lipstick with a glossy finish.
4. Subtle sparkle
A post shared by Violette (@violette_fr)
A photo posted by on
If you want to get your sparkle on but don't feel ready to go all out on the big day, take an understated approach with a subtle line of glitter under the eyes or across the upper lash line in place of liquid liner. The one by Half Magic Beauty makes achieving this look a total breeze, and it comes in a range of unique colours. You also can't beat a burgundy, wine-stained lip which can be created using a long-lasting stain that will stay put through even the most decadent of Christmas lunches.
5. Goldplated floral
A post shared by Violette (@violette_fr)
A photo posted by on
The only time I stray from my matte brown eyeshadow is when I reach for a rose gold; this is a metallic colour that looks beautiful on everybody, no matter how you wear it. I prefer a cream/liquid texture rather than a powder, as I think it looks more modern. This one by Armani is great, and the doe-foot applicator make it really easy to swipe and go across the eyelid.
Marie Claire Newsletter
Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!
6. Barely-there gloss
A post shared by Matilda Djerf (@matildadjerf)
A photo posted by on
For those of you like me who go for minimal make-up on Christmas day, a Matilda Djerf look is for you. Prioritise dewy, plump-looking skin first, then reach for a pretty cream blusher, hi-shine lip oil and some clear mascara for lashes and brows, et voila! You're done.
Rebecca is a freelance beauty journalist and contributor to Marie Claire. She has written for titles including Refinery29, The Independent, Grazia, Coveteur, Dazed, Stylist, and Glamour. She is also a brand consultant and has worked with the likes of The Inkey List on campaign messaging and branded copy. She’s obsessed with skincare, nail art and fragrance, and outside of beauty, Rebecca likes to travel, watch true crime docs, pet sausage dogs and drink coffee. Rebecca is also passionate about American politics and mental health awareness.
-
Why Kensington Palace was "careful" about releasing details around Princess Kate's birthday
By Jenny Proudfoot
-
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have released an emotional statement about the Los Angeles wild fires
By Jenny Proudfoot
-
As walking yoga becomes the latest wildly viral workout - top yogis debunk whether it's worth trying or another fad
The result of combining two forms of low-impact exercise.
By Rebecca Shepherd
-
This iconic brand is Europe's most popular premium skincare brand—these 9 products prove why
My best buys
By Matilda Stanley
-
I find the fake tan process painful, so take my word for it that this is the best gradual one around—especially for winter
Minimal effort = yes please
By Lucy Abbersteen
-
Take it from me, this is the manicure shade that'll dominate the season for a chic winter upgrade
How to embrace the shade of the season
By Rebecca Fearn
-
I'm no longer gatekeeping these are the best Makeup by Mario products to shop now (including a sensational foundation)
Incredibly in-demand
By Lucy Abbersteen
-
Want a new style for 2025? Jewellery experts explain the coolest earring options for each piercing placement
Yes, the curated ear is absolutely back
By Rebecca Fearn
-
As someone with fine hair I've discovered that hair creams are the best way to achieve cool girl texture
By Rebecca Fearn
-
This iconic, celeb-approved face mist is the ultimate way to refresh parched skin
It's like a quick-fix facial in a bottle
By Matilda Stanley
-
One bottle of this iconic moisturiser is sold every 3 seconds and it has always been my go-to for keeping dry and rough skin at bay
Loved by generations for a reason
By Matilda Stanley