This year’s holiday parties are no exception when it comes to doing things virtually, especially since our COVID level matches Santa’s suit right now. So you may be tempted to go with your normal makeup routine, which I’m sure consists of the bare minimum, but for a festive party, you need to turn it way up, especially to shine through on Zoom.
For advice on how to achieve a holiday look that dazzles through the lens, I called on professional experts for advice. Derek Selby is a 30 year industry vet, the beauty expert on Canada’s Cityline, and has been featured in numerous magazines and beauty campaigns. Taylor Fitzgerald is NYC based and you have seen her work on the runways during NY Fashion Week and in every major publication. I have personally worked with both of them and not only are they some of the best artists, they are also great people! For the best holiday party makeup tips that are Zoom-worthy, here’s what they had to say…
Prime Time
Derek advises, “Anything shiny will reflect in the light, so avoid anything too oily or glittery in the t-zone. Start with a matte primer like Benefit POREfessional or TATCHA The Silk Canvas applied all over the face to blur imperfections and reduce shine.”
To Powder or Not to Powder
Taylor chimed in on this. “Especially being home, over-setting the makeup for longevity isn’t totally necessary. Focus on the t-zone where the camera would pick up most of that shine. I love the Maifanshi Brightening Moisture Powder from Koh Gen Do because it is pressed, does not give a white cast, and doesn’t make the skin appear dull.”
The Eyes Have It
“It’s the time to experiment!”, said Taylor. “I love to spice it up for the holidays, and especially on Zoom, you don’t have to worry about travel, weather, or whatever it may be impacting the makeup look as much. Marc Jacobs SEE-QUINS Glitter Liquid Eyeshadow is a great way to brighten up your look while keeping it chic. I like to press it onto my eyelids with my ring finger and blend the edges with a small fluffy brush.”
Derek added, “Definition is very important, make sure you don’t skip the eyebrows and eyeliner. Now is the time to go for an extra coat of mascara. This will frame the eyes and open them! If you’re able, throw on a pair of false eye lashes.
Get Cheeky
“Overloading on blush for the camera can sometimes appear muddy via Zoom, especially if you use more muted tones”, warned Taylor. Try out a soft touch of a brighter color blush on the apples of the cheeks. You can always tone it down with your foundation brush and the excess foundation left on it, buffing it over your cheeks if you apply too much. Some of my favorite blushes are the Laura Mercier Blush Color Infusion in shades Strawberry, Peach, or Sangria. They are beautiful, bright colors that look fresh yet vivid when creating any look!
Pucker Up
Derek said, “A lot of people like to wear black because it’s easy, simple and chic. If you’re going to do this, make sure you either go with a bold color on your lips or reflective texture like shine or shimmer. For example, if you like a nude lip, go for glossy shimmery shade like MAC Lipglass in the shade C-Thru. If you like a red lip, like Chelsi & Roz both do, here are a few faves – MAC Lipstick in Ruby Woo, Armani Lip Maestro Liquid Matte Lipstick in Ecstasy, Tom Ford Lip Color in Cherry Lush or L’Oreal Colour Riche Satin Lipstick in British Red. If you’re wearing bright color clothes, match your lipstick shade to what you’re wearing or go nude!
Finishing Touches
Derek finished by saying, “Finally, look directly into that camera and smile! It will brighten your entire face and make your friends and family feel like you’re right there with them!
I loved chatting all things holiday makeup with my friends who I have missed seeing this year. Even though we are partying apart, we can still be together thanks to technology. Plus I’m glad to know that my makeup will be on point for all my online gatherings! xo, Chelsi