Creating the Ultimate Christmas Glam: A Make Up Artist’s Guide to Festive Beauty
Christmas is officially in the air - the shopping has started, lights are twinkling, and diaries are filling up with work dos, winter gatherings and festive nights out. And with the season in full swing, you may be searching for fresh inspiration for your Christmas make up looks.
Whether you’re going for classic glam, modern glow or a touch of sparkle, here are my go-to tips for creating the ultimate festive make up look - straight from my bridal and event kit.
1. Making a Statement with a Red Lip
A red lip is the timeless Christmas makeup moment. It’s bold, elegant, and instantly elevates any look - whether you’re keeping the eyes soft or going full glam.
In a previous blog post, I share some of my favourite red lipstick formulas. Honestly, it doesn’t matter which you go for. Here’s the golden rule: the right prep makes all the difference.
Prep for a Smooth, Comfortable Application
Red lipstick can be unforgiving without proper lip care, so begin with:
A gentle lip exfoliator to remove dryness
Laneige Lip Sleeping Mask for hydration and a smooth canvas
Make Red Lipstick Easier to Apply
If you’re not confident with bold lip application, try this make up artist trick:
Start with a lip liner (MAC Red Cherry is perfect) to outline and shape the lips
Fill in with your chosen red lipstick
Blot gently with a tissue, then
Press a light dusting of translucent powder over a fresh tissue against the lips for longer wear
This locks in the colour and keeps your red lipstick looking crisp all night.
2. Creating a Hydrated, Glowing Base
Winter skin can easily feel dull or dehydrated - but with the right prep and glow-boosting products, you can create a radiant, luminous base that still feels comfortable in colder weather.
Here are some of my instant-glow favourites from my professional kit:
A few drops pressed into the face, neck and décolletage gives immediate hydration and a glass-skin sheen. Lightweight, fresh, and the ideal base for make up.
The best winter moisturizer. Massage a small amount into the skin to revive dryness and create a soft, nourished glow. Beautiful used alone or layered after Magic Serum.
An excellent all-rounder.
Apply to the high points before foundation for a lit-from-within highlight
Or apply all over for a soft, sheer glow under your base
This trio ensures that even on the coldest days, your skin still looks awake, hydrated and radiant.
3. Add A Little Holiday Sparkle on the Eyes
No Christmas make up look feels complete without a little sparkle.
Whether you prefer subtle shimmer or full-on festive impact, glitter and metallic shadows instantly transform the eyes.
My top pick: Charlotte Tilbury Hypnotising Pop Shots
They offer a foil-like, buildable shimmer with minimal effort.
For application:
Use your fingertip to sweep a soft wash of sparkle across the lids
For more intensity, use a small packing brush to press the pigment onto the eyelid
Shades like Champagne and Gold flatter every eye colour and add that perfect holiday glow.
For more Make Up Tips & Festive Inspiration…
You’ll find more advice, product favourites and application techniques across my other blog posts. Whether you’re heading to a Christmas party, hosting at home or preparing for the new year, I hope these steps help you feel confident, radiant and festive.