Glamorous Makeup for the Holidays

I love to the holidays...exchanging gifts, consuming way too many cookies, spending time with your family...what's not to love? One thing I absolutely enjoy is getting all dressed up and going a little more glamorous with my makeup. Typically I'm a "neutral" girl, but I think the holidays are the perfect time to try out something a little more special.  Here are two really easy ways to spice up your makeup for the holidays or any special occassion. What I love about makeup is that it can easily transform us!

I come across a lot of women who feel that they could never pull off a red lipstick. So not true! The key is to experiment...and don't get discouraged because there is one out there for you. First and foremost, think about the statement you are wanting to make. If you really want to stand out...try a deep blue red or like Penelope, a vibrant fire engine red. If you want to be more subtle try a sheer red gloss...for a softer version. I love doing this little trick with my clients - fill your lips in with a red pencil (either a true red or deeper brownish-red) and go over this with a shimmery soft lipstick in a neutral or gold shade. The neutral lip shade will tone down the liner but still look like a pretty softer version of red. Like I said...experiment! I think a lot of people get confused by the "warm" and "cool" rule, which isn't always necessary. You'll know once it's on if it looks right. Also, you don't have to spend a ton on lipstick...there are many great drug store brands out there. Once you find a cheaper version, you can always bump it up to a richer, more luxurious brand...but why pay more money if you don't have to.

You don't necessarily have to do the red lip and winged eyeliner together, but you certainly could...it's very old Hollywood glamour. I personally love the cat eye with a softer lip, like Angelina has here.  This winged liner is a little thicker than I normally do on my clients, but I'm loving it. I think the easiest form of liner right now to use are Gel Eyeliners. My absolute favorites are from MAC and Bobbi Brown. They both come in a pot, and you would need an eyeliner brush to apply. What I love is that they both are extremely long lasting, and will never smudge below the eye. Perfect for brides, working women or anyone who needs their eyeliner to last all day. I'm not against using an eye pencil, I'm just very stuck in my ways! If you like using black liquid liner, try using it with an angled eye liner brush. I put the product directly on the brush and it glides on perfectly...those little felt tipped brushes can be tricky and messy, I've never truely mastered those.  If you don't want to use black then opt for a charcoal or navy...even deep purple would be beautiful.