As the clock ticks down to midnight and the world prepares to celebrate the dawn of a new year, it’s time to elevate your look and step into the festivities with confidence. New Year’s Eve is the perfect occasion to unleash your creativity and experiment with bold makeup looks that reflect your personal style and the excitement of the celebration. Whether you’re attending an extravagant party, enjoying an intimate gathering with friends, or ringing in the new year from the comfort of your home, the right makeup can enhance your overall look and make you feel fabulous.
In this guide, we’ve curated 20 stunning New Year’s Eve makeup looks that are sure to inspire your holiday glam. From shimmering eyeshadow and radiant highlighters to bold lip colors and intricate designs, each look is designed to help you shine brightly as you welcome the new year. Whether you prefer a classic and elegant appearance or want to go all out with glitter and sparkle, there’s a makeup idea here for everyone.
1. Classic Smokey Eye with Red Lip
A smokey eye and red lip combination is an undisputed classic. It’s a timeless, bold look that’s perfect for New Year’s Eve if you want to ooze confidence and sophistication.
- Eyes: The key to a flawless smokey eye is blending. Start with a dark charcoal or black shadow on the outer corners of your eyes, working it into the crease and blending into a softer color like a warm brown or taupe. To make the eyes pop, add a touch of shimmer in the inner corners. Finish with jet-black eyeliner and several coats of volumizing mascara for that sultry effect.
- Lips: For the perfect red lip, start by exfoliating and moisturizing your lips to ensure a smooth base. Line your lips with a matching red liner, then apply a matte or satin red lipstick for long-lasting wear. For extra glam, opt for a liquid lipstick in a true red shade like classic ruby or scarlet.
This bold pairing is ideal for formal NYE events, like black-tie parties, where you want to make a statement with a chic, sophisticated look.
2. Glitter Cut Crease
For those looking to embrace the extravagance of New Year’s Eve, the glitter cut crease is a show-stopping option. This look is about precision, sparkle, and drama.
- Eyes: Begin by applying a neutral base shadow across your lids. Using a fine brush, define your crease with a deep matte shadow (black or deep brown works well). Once you’ve perfected the crease line, apply a glitter shadow or loose glitter across your entire lid, stopping right at the crease for a sharp contrast. You can use glitter glue to ensure the glitter stays put all night.
- Finishing Touches: A winged liner will accentuate the cut crease, while a few coats of mascara or some false lashes will enhance the overall glam factor.
This look is perfect for over-the-top NYE celebrations, such as lavish club parties or large gatherings where you want to shine like a diamond.
3. Glossy Nude Makeup
For those who prefer a more natural look that still radiates sophistication, glossy nude makeup is perfect. It’s fresh, dewy, and youthful—ideal for a more understated NYE event.
- Skin: To achieve this glowing look, start with a hydrating primer, followed by a dewy foundation that provides light-to-medium coverage. Use a cream bronzer and highlighter to keep the skin looking radiant and fresh.
- Eyes and Lips: On the eyes, use soft, nude tones with a bit of shimmer on the lids. Glossy nude lips are key for this look—opt for a creamy nude lipstick topped with a clear or nude gloss for that wet-look finish.
This makeup is great for more casual or intimate gatherings where you want to look effortlessly chic without heavy makeup.
4. Bold Graphic Liner
For the daring makeup lover, bold graphic eyeliner is a fun way to add an artistic edge to your look. This trend lets you experiment with shapes, angles, and colors.
- Liner: Start by choosing a liquid or gel eyeliner for the precision you’ll need. From double wings to abstract shapes, the possibilities are endless. You could go classic with a cat-eye but extend it into more elaborate designs like floating eyeliner or geometric shapes. For extra flair, try using colored eyeliner such as neon or metallic tones, which will stand out on the dance floor.
- Keep it Minimal Elsewhere: Since the liner is the star of this look, keep the rest of the makeup simple with neutral lips and minimal eyeshadow.
This look is perfect for edgy NYE parties or fashion-forward events where you want to stand out as a trendsetter.
5. Gold Glam
Gold is synonymous with luxury and celebration, making it a perfect color to incorporate into your New Year’s Eve look. A gold eyeshadow look paired with glowing skin exudes elegance and opulence.
- Eyes: Start with a warm brown or bronze shade in the crease to create depth. Then, pack a metallic gold eyeshadow onto your lids, blending softly into the crease for a seamless transition. You can even add a touch of glitter for extra sparkle. Finish the look with a bold cat-eye and voluminous lashes.
- Lips: Pair this gold glam eye with a nude lip to keep the focus on your sparkling eyes, or go for a soft rose lipstick to complement the warmth of the gold.
This look is perfect for more formal NYE events, such as dinner parties, rooftop gatherings, or any glamorous occasion.
6. Glitter Bomb Eyes
For the ultimate party look, cover your entire lids with glitter! Glitter bomb eyes are bold, unapologetically fun, and perfect for NYE when you want to dazzle.
- Eyes: To start, use a glitter adhesive on your lids to help the glitter stick and last all night. Then, apply loose glitter or a glitter-infused eyeshadow all over your lids. Stick to one color, like silver or gold, or get creative and mix different shades for a holographic effect. Keep the rest of your eye makeup simple to let the glitter do the talking.
- Keep it Balanced: With such bold eyes, keep your lips and skin makeup minimal. A nude lip and soft blush will balance the look without overwhelming it.
This makeup is ideal for loud, festive celebrations or all-night raves where you want your eyes to be the center of attention.
7. Classic Red Lip and Winged Liner
Sometimes, simple is best. A classic red lip paired with winged liner is timeless and chic, perfect for any New Year’s Eve event.
- Liner: Start by creating the perfect winged liner. Use a fine-tipped liquid liner for precision, starting thin at the inner corners and gradually thickening as you move outward, flicking the liner up at the outer corner for that perfect cat-eye.
- Lips: Choose a classic red lipstick—matte or satin depending on your preference. Be sure to line your lips beforehand to prevent feathering and ensure your lipstick lasts through the midnight toast.
This look is a go-to for any NYE celebration, from elegant dinners to cocktail parties, giving you an air of timeless glamour.
8. Soft Smokey Eyes with Nude Lips
For those who want a smokey eye without going too dark or intense, a soft smokey eye paired with nude lips offers a more romantic, wearable version of this classic look.
- Eyes: Use softer tones like taupe, grey, or light brown to create the smokey effect. Focus the darker shades on the outer corners of the eyes and blend them into lighter shades toward the center. For a bit of sparkle, add a shimmery champagne shade to the inner corners of your eyes.
- Lips: Opt for a nude lipstick that complements your skin tone, adding a touch of gloss for a polished finish.
This look is versatile and can be worn to semi-formal NYE parties or more casual gatherings.
9. Neon Pop
If you want to be bold, vibrant, and trendy, why not add a pop of neon to your makeup? Whether it’s a bold neon liner or a statement lip, neon is fun and unexpected for New Year’s Eve.
- Eyes: Start with a neutral base and apply neon eyeliner (such as electric blue, lime green, or hot pink) along your lash line or even in a winged shape. If you’re feeling extra daring, create a neon eyeshadow look across your lids using bright pigments.
- Lips: If you want the neon to be the focus, choose a bold neon lipstick like fuchsia, orange, or coral, and keep the rest of your face makeup minimal to let your lips do the talking.
This look is perfect for trendy NYE parties or bold fashion-forward events where you can stand out with fun, vibrant colors.
10. Monochrome Mauve
Monochromatic makeup is a chic, sophisticated trend that involves using the same tones across your eyes, lips, and cheeks for a cohesive, polished look. Mauve is an excellent color choice for a soft, elegant effect.
- Eyes: Apply a mauve-toned eyeshadow to your lids, blending it out softly for a smoky but romantic look. You can add a bit of shimmer to the center of your lids for extra dimension.
- Lips and Cheeks: Use a mauve lipstick that complements the eyes, and sweep a mauve blush across your cheeks for a seamless, monochromatic finish.
This look is perfect for intimate dinners or cozy NYE gatherings where you want to look effortlessly put together.
11. Metallic Smokey Eye
Take the classic smokey eye up a notch with metallic shades. A metallic smokey eye is perfect for adding a bit of edge and glam to your New Year’s Eve makeup.
- Eyes: Begin with a matte base in a deep brown or black shade. Then, pack a metallic shadow (silver, bronze, or copper) onto your lids, blending it seamlessly into the crease. Add a bit of highlighter to the brow bone and inner corners of the eyes to brighten and lift the look.
- Finishing Touches: A dramatic winged liner and a set of voluminous false lashes will make the look even more striking.
This eye-catching look is ideal for gala events, upscale parties, or anywhere you want to add a bit of drama and sparkle.
12. Frosted Eyeshadow and Lips
For a wintery, ice-queen vibe, try frosted eyeshadow and lips. This cool-toned makeup look is ethereal and perfect for outdoor NYE events or winter-themed parties.
- Eyes: Choose icy blue, silver, or lavender shades for your eyeshadow. Apply a shimmery, frosted shade across the lids and blend a soft grey or blue into the crease for definition. A hint of silver glitter in the inner corners will add a frosty sparkle.
- Lips: Frosted lips are making a comeback—choose a cool-toned, frosty lipstick or gloss in shades like silver, pale pink, or lavender to complement the eyes.
This look is perfect for creating a magical, winter-inspired makeup that sparkles in the cold night air.
13. Bold Burgundy Lips
A bold burgundy lip is a sophisticated alternative to classic red, perfect for New Year’s Eve if you want a deep, vampy look that still exudes elegance.
- Lips: Start by exfoliating and moisturizing your lips to ensure a smooth application. Then, line your lips with a matching burgundy liner to prevent feathering. Apply a rich, matte burgundy lipstick, and for a glossy look, top it with a clear or slightly tinted gloss.
- Keep the Eyes Simple: Pair the lips with neutral eye makeup—think light taupe or bronze shadow and a few coats of mascara. You want the lips to be the focal point.
This look is perfect for chic indoor NYE parties or intimate dinners where you want to look effortlessly glamorous.
14. Glitter Liner Accents
If you love glitter but want something a little more subtle than full-on glitter lids, try adding glitter accents with glitter liner. This approach is elegant but still festive, giving your eyes just the right amount of sparkle.
- Eyes: Start with a neutral eyeshadow look and apply glitter liner along your lash line or in the inner corners of your eyes for a delicate sparkle. You can use silver, gold, or even colored glitter to match your outfit. For a more dramatic effect, line your crease with glitter for a pop of glam.
- Pair with Neutral Lips: Keep the rest of your makeup simple with nude or soft pink lips to let the glitter accents shine.
This look is perfect for low-key celebrations where you want just a hint of sparkle without going over the top.
15. Soft Glam with Rosy Cheeks
For a soft, romantic makeup look that still has a touch of glam, go for glowing skin with rosy cheeks. This look is fresh, youthful, and perfect for a more understated New Year’s Eve.
- Skin: Start with a radiant foundation and apply a cream blush in a rosy pink shade to the apples of your cheeks for a natural flush. Highlight the high points of your face (cheekbones, bridge of the nose, cupid’s bow) for a glowing finish.
- Eyes: Keep the eyes soft with neutral tones and fluttery lashes. A bit of shimmer on the lids will add to the soft glam vibe.
- Lips: Opt for a soft pink or nude lip to keep the focus on the fresh, glowing skin.
This look is perfect for a romantic New Year’s Eve dinner or a small house party where you want to look polished but not overdone.
16. Metallic Lips
Metallic lips are a bold and modern statement that’s perfect for New Year’s Eve. Whether you choose silver, gold, or a bold metallic red, this look will make your lips the center of attention.
- Lips: Choose a metallic lipstick or use a metallic lip gloss over your favorite lipstick to create the effect. Silver and gold are classic metallic shades, but you can also try copper, rose gold, or even bold colors like metallic blue or purple for something truly unique.
- Keep the Eyes Minimal: With bold lips, keep the rest of your makeup simple. A bit of mascara and a touch of highlighter will keep the focus on your statement lips.
This look is perfect for edgy parties or nights out where you want to make a bold fashion statement.
17. Bold Colored Mascara
If you want a subtle yet playful pop of color in your makeup, bold colored mascara is a fun way to stand out on New Year’s Eve. Whether you choose blue, purple, or green, colored mascara is an easy way to add some fun to your look.
- Eyes: Apply colored mascara to your top and bottom lashes for a playful pop. You can either go bold by pairing it with a matching eyeliner or eyeshadow, or keep it subtle by sticking to neutral tones on the rest of your eyes.
- Keep it Balanced: Since the mascara is the star of the show, keep the rest of your makeup neutral with soft, natural lips and a light blush.
This look is perfect for fun, casual parties or quirky celebrations where you want to experiment with color.
18. Dewy Skin with Highlighted Eyes
Dewy, glowing skin is always in style, and on New Year’s Eve, it’s the perfect way to look fresh and radiant. Pair glowing skin with a subtle highlight in the inner corners of your eyes to brighten and lift your face.
- Skin: Start with a hydrating primer and a luminous foundation for a dewy finish. Apply a cream highlighter to the high points of your face to enhance the glow.
- Eyes: For the eyes, keep the lids neutral but add a bright highlight to the inner corners of your eyes using a shimmery or metallic eyeshadow. This will make your eyes look bigger and more awake.
- Lips: Finish the look with a glossy lip in a nude or pink shade to keep the focus on your radiant skin.
This look is perfect for outdoor events or parties where you want your skin to glow all night long.
19. Smokey Glitter Lids
For a dramatic and eye-catching look, combine the sultriness of a smokey eye with the sparkle of glitter. Smokey glitter lids are bold, glamorous, and perfect for a New Year’s Eve celebration.
- Eyes: Start by creating a classic smokey eye with dark, matte shadows (black or deep brown). Then, apply glitter across the center of your lids for a sparkling finish. Make sure to blend the edges so the transition between the matte shadow and glitter is seamless.
- Lips: Pair this bold eye with a nude lip to keep the focus on your dramatic, glittery lids.
This look is ideal for high-energy NYE parties or clubbing events where you want to stand out on the dance floor.
20. Velvet Matte Look
A full matte makeup look is luxurious and sophisticated, making it perfect for a formal New Year’s Eve event. From matte skin to matte eyes and lips, this look is all about a velvety smooth finish.
- Skin: Use a matte foundation and set it with a translucent powder to create a flawless, velvety base. Contour with matte bronzer and blush to add dimension without any shine.
- Eyes and Lips: Opt for matte eyeshadow in neutral tones, and pair it with a matte lipstick in your favorite shade. Whether you go for nude or bold, the key is to keep the finish matte and flawless.
This look is perfect for a sophisticated New Year’s Eve dinner or formal event where you want to exude classic elegance.
Conclusion
As you prepare to say goodbye to the past year and welcome new adventures, your makeup should reflect the excitement and joy of the occasion. The 20 New Year’s Eve makeup looks showcased in this guide offer a diverse range of styles, allowing you to find the perfect look that resonates with your personality and the vibe of your celebration. Each makeup idea is designed to empower you, helping you feel confident and beautiful as you step into the new year.
Remember, makeup is not just about aesthetics; it’s an expression of who you are and how you want to be seen. So, whether you opt for a classic red lip, shimmering glitter, or a bold smoky eye, embrace the opportunity to showcase your unique style. This New Year’s Eve, let your makeup be a reflection of your hopes and dreams for the year ahead, and celebrate in style as you make unforgettable memories with friends and loved ones. Here’s to a fabulous night and a bright, new beginning!
