I don’t know about you, but this summer feels a little different. It’s like it’s the first post-2019 season where we can all actually be together. 

To that end–and to mark what I’m absolutely positive is going to be a very excellent festive season–I think it’s time for us all to shake up our makeup. I mean, sure, you could swipe on your go-to bold lipstick or layer up on your favourite mascara, but if there was ever a year to have some serious fun with your face, the 2022 holiday season is just that. Here, I present to you three ways to up the makeup ante when the champagne starts flowing…

Those who know me know that I’m a passionate advocate (bully?) of the gorgeousness that is blue mascara in summertime. That hint of cobalt framing your eyes when you step into the sunshine? Stunning. It’s such an unexpected flash of colour that–and trust me on this–you’ll be raking in the compliments. And here’s the thing: swapping out your black wand for a coloured one has got to be one of the easiest ways to overhaul your look. 

Beginner

If you want to dip your toe into the look before committing to purchasing a coloured mascara (smart), you can DIY your own. Simply coat the lashes in a clear mascara and dust over with coloured eyeshadow or mix mascara primer with eyeshadow (cream or powder). To wear, layer your coloured ‘mascara’ over your go-to black for just the slightest tint or apply it on just the top lashes and black mascara on the bottom. 

When it comes to choosing a colour, burgundy is also good starter shade: sitting somewhere between the richness of black and the softness of brown, it’s super wearable. Our favourite is the  Charlotte Tilbury Pillow Talk Push Up Lashes Mascara in Dream Pop.

You can also pick a colour based on what might enhance what you’ve already got:

Blue: This stands out against brown eyes, and makes blue eyes pop. But on all eye colours, blue makes the whites of the eyes appear whiter (in much the same way that a blue-based red lipstick makes teeth appear whiter). Try: Shiseido Controlled Chaos Mascara Ink in Sapphire Spark.

Red: Complements brown and hazel eyes, those with paler complexions or pink and red undertones and redheads with red lashes (it can look more natural than black). Bonus: red makes the eyes appear bigger and brighter, too. It’s why Chanel added a shot of red, invisible to the naked eye, to their latest black mascara, Noir Allure.

Pink: Delivers a pretty contrast to blue eyes. 

Purple: Also a good one for brown and green eyes. 

Green: This will enhance green irises. 

Advanced 

Go for it! Coat both top and bottom lashes in coloured mascara or, if you’re feeling it, wear a different shade on the top and bottom for a two-toned look. You can also try lining your eyes with an eyeliner in the same shade as your mascara to really make the colour pop.

We’re always going to be team bright lipstick, but it’s almost Christmas and the sun is shining—so, why not migrate that vibrant colour slightly north and wear it on your cheeks or eyes? 

I’ve written a couple of stories filled with expert-approved tips on how to wear kaleidoscopic eyeshadow and blush (you can read them here and here) but here’s a bonus tip: start by taking things up a notch from your usual shade. So, if you regularly wear a lavender eyeshadow, try a still-subtle mauve or rich amethyst. If your cheeks are usually bathed in peach, consider a brighter melon or cool coral. See how pretty that looks?

What’s that saying? Rules were made to be broken! And that’s never been truer than when it comes to makeup. We’re all doing the no-makeup makeup and #CleanGirlAesthetic thing, and we won’t stop doing it, but there’s something so glamorous about looking super polished and ‘done’. The key to keeping this look modern is to ensure skin looks fresh and minimal (so maybe put down that full-coverage foundation and try a skin tint or sheer base instead) and to mix textures and finishes: think matte eyeshadow, glossy blush and satin lips, or maybe it’s shiny eyes, stained cheeks and matte lips. 

The most important thing to remember this party season? Wear your makeup with a smile. And don’t forget that drink—cheers!