From how to groom brows to best lipstick colours, here are 5 timeless makeup tips for festivals

Best lipstick colours: Bold lips are a festive classic. Red lips, in particular, are a timeless choice that adds instant glamour to any look (Image: Canva)

Festivals are here, and this is the perfect time to add a touch of glamour to your beauty routine. Whether you're attending a holiday party or hosting an intimate family gathering, a polished, radiant makeup look can enhance your overall appearance and complement the celebratory vibe.

• Prep your skin for a flawless base

The foundation of any beautiful makeup look is healthy, glowing skin. Before applying makeup, it’s crucial to prepare your skin to ensure that your products sit seamlessly. Start by cleansing your face to remove any impurities, followed by a hydrating toner or serum.

Moisturising is essential to keep your skin supple, especially in colder months when skin tends to become dry. If you're stepping out during the day, don't forget to apply sunscreen for protection from UV rays. A good primer can also be a game-changer. It smooths the skin's surface and helps your makeup last longer. Choose a primer that suits your skin type – mattifying for oily skin, or hydrating for dry skin.

• Create a dewy complexion

For a timeless and radiant complexion, opt for a dewy finish foundation. Matte foundations can sometimes look heavy, but dewy foundations offer a fresh and natural look, perfect for festive occasions. Apply a light to medium coverage foundation with a damp makeup sponge to achieve an even and luminous finish. Use a creamy concealer to brighten your under-eye area and cover any blemishes. Blend it in gently to avoid caking. For added glow, apply a liquid highlighter to the high points of your face—cheekbones, bridge of your nose, and cupid's bow.

• Accentuate your eyes

Eye makeup is where you can add some festive flair. A classic smokey eye is always a go-to for evening events. Opt for neutral shades like browns, golds, and taupes, which are universally flattering and add warmth to the face. Start by applying a light shade across your eyelids, followed by a darker shade in the crease to add depth. Blend the shades for a seamless look.

For a more subtle daytime look, keep the eyes simple with neutral tones, but add a touch of sparkle with a shimmer eyeshadow or eyeliner. The key is to keep the look balanced and sophisticated. Don’t forget to define your eyes with a sharp eyeliner. A winged eyeliner can add instant glamour, while tightlining your upper waterline can make your lashes look fuller. Finish with a few coats of volumising mascara or opt for false lashes for a more dramatic effect.

• Enhance your brows

Well-groomed brows can frame your face and complete your festive look. If your brows are sparse, use a brow pencil or powder to fill in the gaps. Choose a shade that closely matches your natural brow colour for a natural effect. If you prefer a more structured brow, you can use a brow gel to shape and set them in place. Always brush your brows upwards for a lifted, youthful look. The goal is to keep your brows looking full and natural, not overly done.

• Add a pop of colour to your lips

Bold lips are a festive classic. Red lips, in particular, are a timeless choice that adds instant glamour to any look. Whether you prefer a matte or glossy finish, make sure to choose a shade of red that complements your skin tone. For lighter complexions, opt for a blue-toned red, while those with deeper skin tones may look stunning in warmer, orange-toned reds.

If red isn’t your style, berry, plum, and nude shades are excellent alternatives that still offer a festive feel. To make your lipstick last longer, apply a lip liner before filling in your lips with your chosen shade. Blot with tissue and reapply for a long-lasting finish.