If you’re anything like us, you’ll feel two things by the time NYE approaches and you’re contemplating New Year’s Eve makeup looks.
First, you’ll be a bit partied out because, let’s face it, December is basically a month of non-stop social events rounded off with a few days of back-to-back occasions seeing family/friends.
But there’s also still the knowledge that whether saying bye to 2022 in pjs on the sofa or sequins at a party, you definitely, definitely want to do it wearing some excellent makeup.
And that’s where this mood board of New Year’s Eve makeup looks comes in. Whether you’re all about the sparkly eyes or very into a glossy lip, you’ll find something to spark inspiration here.
Oh, and whatever you end up doing, remember to take your makeup off before you go to sleep; I recommend putting your eye makeup remover or micellar next to your bed so you don’t forget.
Murder on the dancefloor
For an eyeshadow look that is as iconic as the music video it’s worn in, take inspiration from Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s Murder On The Dancefloor makeup. For this, blend a trio of shimmery lime, emerald and olive green eyeshadows with a smudge of black liner on the bottom lash to add depth. Don’t forget that high-gloss red lip.
Disco eyes
Add an icy highlighter as a base across your whole lid before using your finger (you’ll get better payoff vs using a brush) to press on a silver glitter shadow or pigment. Add a subtle touch of blue liner on the bottom lash because it’s NYE and why not?
Precious metals
Can’t decide between gold or silver? This eye look celebrates the best of both; apply a silver eye pigment on the inner corner of the eye, followed by gold in the middle section and bronze on the outer edge. Use a dense black shadow to neaten up the outer edge and finish with some half-lashes for a feline flick.
Pixie dust
If you aren’t a pro at blending pigmented shadows, instead try a duo-chrome or holographic eyeshadow. Simply apply all across your eyelid, swipe on a black mascara and let the magic of the shadow do its thing.
Spike out
Take graphic liner further by adding spikes to your inner eye, and underneath. Don’t forget to apply plenty of mascara for maximum effect.
A classic red lip, made modern
Apply the perfect festive red, then blur the edges and add a coppery smoky eye for an update on a classic.
Midnight dreaming
Take inspiration from the night with this multi-dimensional blue smokey eye. Use an azure matte blue and black shade for the base before patting on a shimmering blue shadow on top. Finish with a touch of highlighter on the centre of the lid for a truly ethereal look.
Star overload
Nothing says ‘party’ like sequins. Use a dewy moisturiser or dash of lash glue to make them stick, and remember not to put them too close to your eyes.
Defined shimmer
Add borders to your sheeny eyes for this futuristic and really flattering take on going out out makeup.
A glittery upgrade to your flick
There’ll always be a place for a feline flick in my makeup repertoire, but adding this cool shot of shimmer gives it a refreshing edge.
Matchy matchy
Coordinating your shadow to your outfit is suddenly a thing again, and it couldn’t be easier; just whisk a shadow around your eyes, then add mascara. Done.
Femme fatale
Use this as inspiration to strip things back to just really punchy lipstick with a bit of shadow for balance.
Crimson kiss
A red lip is timelessly classic, but this glitter-laced look is perfect for the biggest night out of the year.
Rainbow eyes
Use three or more densely-pigmented colours to create a rainbow effect, then finish the look with lashings of mascara.
Glossed smoke
Take a super dark halo of shadow or kohl, then add sheen via an eye gloss for a modern look that’s impactful.
Purple reign
Try this wash of purple paired with glossy, healthy skin and a nude lip for instant big glam.
Diamante’s are a girl’s best friend
Elevate your usual makeup with a smattering of a few diamantes.
Starry-eyed
These stencilled stars look fresh and make a statement. Remember to vary the sizes to open up the eye.
Gold flick
Shimmer? Yep. Glitter? Absolutely. Diamante flick? Load it on. This is your more is more makeup look.
‘90s understated
If you like your ‘90s makeup hues, try adding a hint of sheen to your lids for a bit of intrigue.