Cover American model Gabbriette (Photo: Instagram/@gabbriette)
American model Gabbriette (Photo: Instagram/@gabbriette)
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Forget the predictable dustings of gold. This holiday season, we embrace molten metals, architectural shadows and the deep, ink-like pigments of the “Cardinal” lip
The arrival of the December social calendar often triggers a predictable reflex: the reach for pots of chunky glitter and high-shine gold. While such choices are traditional, the 2025 circuit demands a more nuanced approach. This season, the aesthetic shift moves away from our favourite glitters toward structural light and deep, saturated pigments.
Under the sharp lights of a gala or the dim warmth of a private dinner, these looks offer a sophisticated alternative to the standard holiday sparkle.
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The Molten Mouth
Traditional shimmer takes a back seat to a finish that mimics liquid metal. Rather than a gritty glitter, the focus here is a “Metal lip” that appears poured onto the skin. To ground this intensity, keep the complexion matte and sculpted. Use a cream contour to define the cheekbones and jawline.
The Lucia Frost
Above Open Nouveau Palette by Anastasia Beverly Hills
Open Nouveau Palette by Anastasia Beverly Hills
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Inspired by the Swedish celebration of light, this look uses cool tones to illuminate the face. The goal is a silver wash across the lids that feels airy. Pair a sheer metallic shadow with a black line along the lashes to maintain shape. To finish, add individual lash clusters to the outer corners. It creates a wide-eyed, bright effect that counters the fatigue of a long party season.
Cardinal Depth
The red lip is a holiday staple, but this year it loses its bright, candy-like quality. Instead, we look toward “Cardinal” shades—deep, ink-like crimsons with a velvet texture. Outline the lips with a matching liner to ensure the borders remain sharp. Contrast this heavy pigment with a bare eyelid and a touch of highlighter on the bridge of the nose. It is a look that feels deliberate.
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Sugarplum Flush
Above Sugarplum fairy makeup look by Jackie Wyers
Summer was about the sun, but winter belongs to something else entirely. This involves placing a berry-toned blush high on the cheekbones and blending it toward the temples. To keep it modern, avoid bronzer. The purple-pink hue provides enough dimension on its own, especially when paired with gloss on the lips.
The Coal-Lined Eye
For those who prefer a darker evening mood, the “Siren” eye returns via charcoal. Rather than a smoky eye that covers the entire lid, use a kohl pencil to line the waterlines and the inner corners. Smudge the edges with a brush to soften the transition. This creates a piercing gaze that feels rebellious against the backdrop of festive cheer. It is a look for the late-night hours, pairing with a neutral, 1990s-inspired brown lip.
The Button Nose
The focus shifts to a singular point of light. This technique uses a dot of champagne highlighter on the very tip of the nose to create a sharp, delicate silhouette. Keep the rest of the face soft with a diffused skin tint and a sheer pink lip. This aesthetic is feminine and avoids the heavy, layered feel of traditional party makeup.
Tinsel Shadows
Avoid the scatter of loose glitter by opting for a “Tinsel” shadow. Apply a single shade across the entire lid up to the brow bone. The result is a monolithic block of light that feels architectural. It is a bold statement that requires nothing but a coat of mascara and a groomed brow to complete the look.
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Angela Nicole Regis Guiral is the assistant digital editor of Tatler Philippines. She studied journalism and has since written features that look closely at how culture, lifestyle and social impact converge, while occasionally wandering into the worlds of style and travel.
