Cool Girl Festive Makeup by Kim Brown

With the holidays just around the corner, it’s time to elevate your makeup from the everyday to something special and festive. Whether you opt for ‘clean’ skin and a bold lip, a kohl-rimmed eye, or even a Studio 54-inspired all-over shimmer, these are some of my favourite products to ensure you are party-ready.

Before diving into makeup, skin always is what matters the most. Well prepped skin ensures your makeup looks flawless and stays intact. Start with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities and follow up with a hydrating moisturiser. For those looking for extra pampering, many spas and clinics offer party-ready facials. Opt for treatments that include exfoliation and deep hydration to achieve that natural holiday glow.

At-home cleansers…

At-home moisturisers…

Foundations

A good base is so important. If your skin looks great, you automatically look healthy and glowing. I personally prefer sheer, light formulas, as skin should look like skin—just an elevated version of your own. Then, blemishes, dark circles, or redness can be corrected with a touch of concealer, so the rest of the skin remains fresh.

Favourite concealers…

A red lip and polished skin

The general rules are that warmer skin tones tend to suit warmer red shades, while cooler skin tones are better with blue-reds. It can also depend on what you’re wearing and your hair colour, but I think most people suit most reds when done in the right way. Try a few and see what you prefer. I tend to gravitate toward tomato shades, as I feel like they brighten my skin, but I also love a wintery berry stain. Matte or velvety finishes look more modern and don’t get as messy.

Prep your lips by gently rubbing them with a damp towel to remove any dry skin. Apply a little foundation over your lip line to help the lipstick last and prevent bleeding. For a sharp edge, use a lip brush for precision, and once your lipstick is on, go in with a lip liner. I find it’s always easier that way around, and it creates a better shape.

Favourites lipsticks…

Lip liners…

Kohl-rimmed eye

I personally love this look, reminiscent of Kate Moss in the ’90s. It can be lived-in or more polished, but to me, it always looks cool. An easy way to achieve this iconic look is by applying a soft black kohl liner close to the lashes and smudging it with a blending brush or even your fingers. You can tidy up any liner that has gone rogue with a cotton bud and some micellar water, but the lived-in look definitely works here. For a more precise look, apply the kohl first, then blend with a finer brush. To add a hint of sparkle, press a shimmer (metallic shades work well) eyeshadow into the centre of the eyelid and sweep outwards. A balm or highlighter also works well if you want sheen without shimmer.

Eyeliners…

Shimmer eyeshadows…

Balms & highlighters…

Studio 54 Shimmer

This look can be as bold or as subtle as you like. A sheer wash of colour swept across the lid or a bold, jewel glittery shimmer up to the brows. Think metallic blues, purples, or even a pop of iridescent teal—shades that channel that raw, rebellious energy of icons like Debbie Harry. These hues are all about making a statement, but in a way that feels fresh and wearable today. A soft, dewy highlighter (like the ones mentioned above Apologies for the incomplete response. Here is the continuation of the full text, with links added:

will keep the skin glowing and fresh, just that perfect lit-from-within effect. You can even dab a little on your eyelids for an extra luminous touch. Lip gloss is totally back, sported at fashion shows such as Chloe, Valentino, and Fendi. It’s the perfect balance to the bold eyes, giving the whole look that effortless, modern touch while staying true to the glamour of the Studio 54 era. If you’re opting for a bold eye, keep the lip gloss neutral with a light peach or pink shade

Eye shadows…

Lip glosses…

Merry Christmas!
Kim xx

Follow Kim: @kimbrownmakeup