With party season in full swing, it may seem impossible to choose a makeup look because there are so many glamorous options out there. So, I scoured magazines, blogs and social media sites like Tumblr and Instagram for this year’s hottest beauty trends, and narrowed down the six best products. Whether your style is luxe, edgy or anywhere in between, these holiday must-haves will definitely kick any outfit up a notch. On your next Sephora or Ulta run, be sure to snag one or two of these goodies for the makeup lovers in your life—after all, it’s the season of giving.
Pat McGrath Labs Metalmorphosis 005 kit: Because no one does beauty quite like renowned makeup artist Pat McGrath, her limited edition Metalmorphosis 005 kit is at the top of my list. In a choice of four metallic finishes (silver, gold, copper or bronze), this kit truly lights up any complexion. No matter which you choose, you will be able to create a multitude of looks with a cream pigment, a pressed powder pigment, mixing liquid (which liquefies pigment) and a double-sided marker in black. Metalmorphosis can be used for a conventional highlight (think: cheekbones, browbones and cupid’s bow), or as a statement-making New Year’s Eve eyeshadow. $60, Sephora
Makeup Revolution Iconic 3 Redemption eyeshadow palette: These shimmery, champagne-inspired colors are sure to brighten your eyes this season. Makeup Revolution’s 12-shade palette creates romantic eyeshadow looks that flatter every skin tone and eye color. Use one or two shades for a natural, daytime look, and add drama with darker hues for an alluring evening look. $7, Ulta
NYX Soft Matte Lip Cream in Copenhagen: Velvet is one of this season’s chicest looks—so, why not put it on your lips? This velvety lip cream applies with the ease of your favorite childhood gloss, but packs a ton of sophisticated color. Create an eye-catching date-night ensemble by pairing Copenhagen, a rich oxblood shade, with neutrals like black, white, gray and denim to channel that impossibly stylish model-off-duty charm. $5.99, Ulta
MAC Cosmetics Retro Matte lipstick in Ruby Woo: Ruby Woo isn’t just a red lipstick; it is the red lipstick. For a standout lip color that never goes out of style, look no further. This jewel tone is bold enough to set you apart from a crowd of red-lipped ladies, yet classy enough to wear to the most formal of this season’s events. $17, MACcosmetics.com
NARS Hot Sand multipurpose illuminator: What would the holidays be without a little shimmer? This multipurpose illuminator works on eyes, face, lips and body, so you can glow from top to bottom. The sultry hue gives you a natural post-vacation glow without any sun or surf, and its sleek design make this product super easy to toss in your purse as you run out the door. Day or night, Hot Sand will give you a soft, sun-kissed sparkle wherever you need it. $39, Sephora
Milk Makeup Face Gloss: For the girl that struggles with intricate eye makeup, Milk’s Face Gloss is for you. Apply a coat to your eyelids for an unexpected, high fashion sheen. While eyeliner and shadows can be tricky to work with, this gel formula applies in one easy swipe. Not to mention, it is packed with vitamins that nourish the skin, so after continued use, you will glow without makeup. $20-$36, Sephora