When House of Fraser* contacted me to collaborate this Christmas, it’s safe to say I did a little happy dance and replied to that email the second it had finished; all much to my baby’s amusement. What made this opportunity even more exciting is that they wanted me to create a glittery festive party look – sign me right up! Now, as much as I clearly adore makeup, I am definitely no MUA and would never in a million years claim to be so apologies if you think my eye look is a little basic (yes, I know I can see the mascara blobs in the photo below too *sigh*). I’m just a girl who loves makeup and is a little self-conscious in front of the camera.
As party season approaches, I have to recommend my favourite foundation, the Yves Saint Laurent ‘All Hours’ Matte Liquid Foundation (£33.50 | here). If you’re looking for a high-coverage, long-lasting foundation that will look flawless throughout your Christmas party (and the after-party for that matter) I can’t recommend this foundation highly enough. To read my full review click here. There’s also a matching primer and concealer available that I’m itching to get my hands on but high-end quality comes with a high-end price tag so fingers crossed Santa is listening.
The first product I was very kindly sent was the Bobbi Brown Evening Glow Eye Shadow Palette (£35 | here). I’d never tried their eyeshadows before and this little collection was love at first swatch. These are so buttery and easy to work with. They blend flawlessly and make the perfect base for applying a little extra sparkle on top if you’re feeling festive. While the range of shades isn’t anything groundbreaking this combination of rosy shades and smokey greys and browns are universally flattering and transition perfectly from everyday wear to full party glam. I simply apply the creamy white shade all over my lid, smoked out my crease and outer corner with second darkest shade with a fluffy brush and popped the gold shimmer into my inner corner with a dampened pencil brush.
For a sparkly Christmas look, how could I not mention the Stila Magnificent Metals Glitter & Glow Liquid Eye Shadow Collection? Perhaps one of the most hyped products of 2017, but with good reason. Stila describes this collection as “… jewels for the eyes!” and they couldn’t be more spot-on if they tried. I’ve included two sets of swatches above as it’s so difficult on camera to capture the blinding shine of these glowing glitter shadows. I have the shades Bronzed Bell and Rose Gold Retro (£23 | here). The liquid eyeshadow contains varying sizes of pearl and glitter which gives a truly captivating shimmer with minimal fuss or effort. The water-infused formula glides on effortlessly and is surprisingly lightweight and easy to blend. It’s very long-lasting and dries down quickly, however, I found that if you don’t wear a high-quality eyeshadow primer (UD’s Primer Potion for example) or glitter glue you will get a little fallout. For me, this isn’t a deal-breaker as it’s very minimal but eagle-eyed users may notice a touch of extra sparkle to your cheek if you don’t prep your lids in advanced. Simply apply all over your lid, blend and allow it to dry, I promise, it really is that simple. I initially thought the formula might dry a little patchy and need two coats, but this is full coverage glitter and it’s simply stunning and surprisingly fuss-free.
The Urban Decay Heavy Metal Glitter Eyeliners (£13 | here) also contain super-fine glitter but in a clear base that dried down quickly and stays put all night. These are perfect if you just want to add a band of glitter to your eye or for even using the fine-tipped applicator to add extra details to your finished look. There are currently 12 shades available including Midnight Cowboy (left) and ACDC (right).
My lipstick of choice when it comes to party glam has got to be Charlotte Tilbury’s Matte Revolution Lipstick in Sexy Sienna (£24 | here). If you are looking for a long-wearing lip product that’s a little bit extra special this Christmas, I highly recommend treating yourself to one of CT’s iconic, beautifully packaged lipsticks. The Matte Revolution formula isn’t as unforgiving as other matte lipsticks. It doesn’t completely dry down which means it doesn’t settle into any dry patches and it doesn’t feel uncomfortable. One swipe gives your full coverage cover with no streakiness. If you are creating a bold eye and want a simpler lip aka NikkieTutorials style, then Kim K. W. is the perfect light pinky beige nude that looks lovely on all skin tones.
Last step to complete your glam Christmas look? Drench yourself in Urban Decay’s All Nighter Setting Spray to make sure your makeup stays flawless all night long. I hope you enjoyed this style of post, as I said before I’m not expert at applying makeup but I sure love pretending to be!
House of Fraser has so many amazing makeup brands right now including all my favourites above. Click here to take a look at their collection online, which includes everything from foundation, lipstick, eyelash curlers and everything sparkly. Also, check out their Partywear Collection to find the perfect dress/suit/accessories this Christmas.
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