Ali Webb
The holiday season is in full swing, and if you aren’t already feeling the rush of busy festivities galore, chances are you will soon. Whatever events are on your agenda this year, a celebratory outfit with the hair, makeup, and nails to match is absolutely key to looking your jolliest—and this year, we’re finding ourselves gravitating towards cherry red, bows galore, and a true holiday standby: glitter makeup. From eyeshadow palettes to sparkly liners to shimmery products for our cheeks and lips, a little sparkle is an easy yet effective way to take a look from everyday to party-ready, and Team Byrdie is here to bring you the best of the best. Ahead, see five of our favorite glitter makeup products that will have you shining as bright as the holiday lights, complete with details on the looks we create with them.
Madeline Hirsch, news director
Madeline Hirsch
Glittery eyeshadow is, quite simply, the best last-minute addition to any holiday party outfit—especially one that needs an extra bit of oomph. No one understands this like the British Queen of Glam, Charlotte Tilbury, who recently released the colorful pastel Beautyverse Palette ($75) to unleash your inner sugar plum fairy. I wore a mix of the pink and purple shades to a formal event recently, and it made me feel gorgeous, sparkly, and ready to celebrate.
Eden Stuart, editor
Eden Stuart
I love a low-maintenance glitter eyeshadow—something that really stands on its own. Half Magic’s Eyeshadow Single ($12) in the (perpetually sold-out) Blushing Lizard is exactly that. It imparts a stunning, almost glossy glitter finish that’s oddly chameleon-like: Wear it with radiant skin and glossy lips for a minimalist party look, or add some face gems and graphic eyeliner for something bolder. Thanks to the blue reflects, I find it looks really gorgeous paired with a neutral or blue-based red lipstick.
Ali Webb, associate editor
Ali Webb
When I have an evening event where I want to feel extra glam—whether that’s a party or one of the many concerts I’m constantly going to—I use a healthy dose of glitter to take my already-dramatic go-to winged makeup look to the next level. While plenty of shimmer shadow is usually involved, lately my hero product has been Urban Decay’s Moondust Liquid Glitter Eyeliner ($25) in shade Midnight Cowboy, a true gold. I’ve used it on its own and as an overlay on top of my black or brown winged liner, but I think my favorite way to wear it may be brushed over my inner corners and blended out for an ultra-sparkly brightening effect.
Star Donaldson, associate social media director
Star Donaldson
I love, love, love a glittery eye for every day, so when it comes to a New Year’s Eve glittery look, I feel like I’ve been practicing for it all year. I’ve been obsessed with Danessa Myricks Beauty’s Lightwork V Palette ($125), and the entire palette would be amazing for NYE, but I’ve been gravitating towards the light, frosty shades that give subtle Y2K vibes. This year, I’ll be using the shade Invincible to go over a dark smokey eye. I usually apply lighter glittery shades near the inner corner because it makes my eyes sparkle and complements my natural cat-eye shape. It’s also an easy way to play with glitter if you’re worried about adding too much (which, BTW, is impossible).
Abby Dupes, associate editor
Abby Dupes
I love glitter makeup looks, especially around the holiday season. I mean, who doesn’t want to look like the dazzling disco ball hanging above a festive feast? The only pet peeve I have with glitter is it literally gets everywhere, meaning loose powders are a no-go for me. That’s why I love Half Magic’s Chromaddiction Shimmer Eye Paint + Liner ($25). To give off Christmas vibes, I chose the shade A.S.M.R., which is a gorgeous champagne with shimmery blue reflects. The formula doesn’t budge, which is important if you’re like me and cry at the cheesiest of holiday movies.
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