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Glitter: How to be Classy, Not Trashy

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Iowa chapter.

We all know that glitter has a subtle way of catching eyes and noticeably bringing a little bit of sparkle and attention. On the same note, too much glitter can make a classy statement look like a messy art project. Here are the do’s and don’ts for glitter this holiday season. 

DO: Add a little shimmer to your makeup routine.

Perhaps a sparkly smoky eye is just the holiday look you didn’t know you needed. Whether you line your eyes with fine glitter or apply a bit to your lipgloss, it’s all about subtlety.

DONT: Turn your look into a costume.

A little sparkle goes a long way and start small with the areas you choose to accent. If you choose some bold glitter drama on your eyes, maybe keep your lipstick at a subtle matte or understated shade.

DO: Choose fine glitter over chunky pieces.

Fine glitter elegantly reflects light while chunky glitter tends to look cheap and out of place. Be extremely careful when applying glitter around your eyes, as it can be irritating to the super-delicate eye area. 

DON’T: Go head-to-toe in sequins.

Bold accents complement any outfit and generally look more tasteful that a overly-flashy flapper-style outfit. Think of key pieces and accessories that stand out instead. 

DO: Glitter nail polish in pretty holiday colors.

Just the right amount of just make sure to apply a base and top coat to ensure your holiday mani lasts!

DON’T: Put glitter directly in your hair.

Glitter hairspray and loose glitter tend to look tacky and costume-like. Instead, try a statement glitter headband or hair bow. Also, glitter gel and hairspray is a nightmare to wash out. Hair accessories can add emphasis to your look while effortlessly keeping your hair in place.

DO: Pair a shiny statement necklace with your favorite sweater.

A statement necklace can really tie an otherwise simple outfit together and can be very versatile in your holiday wardrobe 

DON’T: Glitter shoes.

While it’s tempting to like the idea of shoes that sparkle, we’ve all been 14 once, and those red glitter shoes Dorothy wore were in the Halloween department for a reason. 

DO: Add glitter accents to your home and gifts for the holidays.

Think gold glitter accenting monogram letters and mason jars. Glitter is great for gifts; a shiny gift box stands out great among others! 

 

Image sources: Google

 

Hello! I'm Erin, a University of Iowa student often found doing crafty things or jamming out to alternative music. I love flowers, puns, concerts, and traveling. I've lived on the east coast and the west coast but the midwest is the best.
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