While winter beauty trends tend to be a logical extension of fall favorites (deep, rich hues, enchanting palettes, fuller coverage, etc.), winter beauty is also distinct thanks to the way the holidays inspire an added element of festivity and glamour–while providing the excuse to enjoy dazzling looks.
If you have the chance to take advantage of these trends, e.g., for a fun holiday get together, don’t think twice—these low-maintenance techniques are easy to master and can be replicated with non-toxic, vegan, and cruelty-free products. Without further ado, here’s your guide to mastering five of the chicest winter beauty trends, plus our product recommendations!
A Red Glitter Pout
This look is more runway than office party, but it would be a perfect touch for a more glamorous affair. Simply pick up a pot of red, extra-fine loose, cosmetic-grade glitter (like this glitter). Alternatively, a shimmery red eye shadow will work for a more subtle statement. Apply your favorite red lipstick, pat glitter on lips, focusing on the center/fuller parts of the lips where we want light reflected for emphasis Keep the rest of your face minimal for a striking effect. It’s also recommended to wear a full-coverage foundation–any bold statement lip can draw attention to uneven pigmentation.
All-over Highlight
If you’re feeling fearless or wish to appear like you’ve been wintering in the tropics, go for this ultra-radiant, luminous look. Add a drop of liquid bronzer to your foundation. Combine well, and apply to your entire face. Enhance the look by wearing copper eyeshadow on your lids. Don’t forget the rest of your body—a dry body oil (i.e. one that is easily absorbed), perhaps mixed with a few drops of liquid bronzer, will beautifully highlight your bod. Try Physicians Formula Bronze Booster Glow-Boosting BB Cream.
Innocent Rosy Glow
For more intimate affairs or a casual family gathering, an innocently rosy glow is a timeless option. Prep skin with a hyaluronic acid serum (like Pestle & Mortar HA Serum). This will help hydrate and plump skin. Follow with a dewey-finish foundation—I’ve been loving Alima Pure’s new Liquid Silk Foundation, which has medium coverage and a gorgeous soft-focus finish. Follow with a cream blush or cheek stain, and amp up your lashes for a doe-eyed look. Lily Lolo Vegan Mascara is super buildable and stays put all day.
The Non-School Girl Black Hair Ribbon
You will need a black velour or grosgrain ribbon cut to about 2 ¼ inches (like this one). From here, your options are endless. You can wrap it around a ponytail, use it as a headband (and stealthily secure it with bobby pins), or incorporate it into a delightfully messy bun. Whichever way you swing it, avoid hair that’s too perfect (i.e. pin straight or flawlessly curled). Bedhead or tousled waves will keep the look from being too Victorian-in-mourning or school girl (think Blair Waldorf—eek!). Here’s more inspo.
Festive Nails
The It colors of the season are Bordeaux (wine red) and deep blue. These can flatter almost any complexion—and the rule about keeping dark nails short is no more (at least for the time!). Feel free to rock these colors on your stiletto nails. Just be sure to keep them neat. There’s no nail sin worse than chipped dark polish. A gold or silver statement nail would be a fun addition to the look.
Try Kiss, Kiss Darling by Trust Fund Beauty
Or For the Love of Blue by Ani Michele
What are your favorite Winter 2016/2017 beauty trends?
Related: These Fuss-Free Makeup Tips Are Lifesavers on Busy Mornings
7 Totally Doable Holiday-Ready Beauty Tips from Top Makeup Artists
The Surprising Thing that Finally Cleared My Hormonal Acne
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Photos: Pexels, Respective brands, Mary Hood Luttrell