As a Beauty Editor who appreciates clean, minimal glam, here are 14 stylish holiday makeup products I'm considering for 2025.
While I have a deep appreciation for bold, avant-garde makeup styles (which I frequently write about!), my personal makeup routine is quite minimalist. I seldom apply a full face of foundation and don’t typically take the time to create a precise cat-eye look. (This is more common than you might think among beauty editors; our routines often prioritize low maintenance!) However, I’ve been quite taken with several dazzling makeup products over the last few weeks, ranging from new releases that perfectly blend festive and minimalist styles to my go-to favorites that I reach for once the holiday gatherings start filling my calendar.
I've discovered that the secret to elevating your glam while maintaining a subtle overall appearance is to focus on just one feature. Similar to selecting a statement piece of jewelry (perhaps a lovely brooch), dedicating yourself to one standout element—whether it’s a shimmering eye shadow, a bold lip, or colorful lashes—allows you to enjoy a dramatic flair without overwhelming the look. It's a balance, as French makeup lovers would point out. In the spirit of understated holiday glamour, here are my favorite products to accentuate each feature, whether you’re looking for a stunning eye, a velvety lip, or cheekbones that sparkle under twinkling lights. Here are my 14 essentials for chic and minimal holiday makeup.
**MERIT Beauty**
Solo Shadow in Iris
This new shimmer pot from Merit is an eye shadow for those who aren't fans of traditional glitter. It has no actual glitter particles, instead offering a pearlescent glow within a creamy, blendable formula that you can apply with your fingers. Each shade draws inspiration from the metallic shadows favored by 1990s supermodels, and all six shades are definitely worth trying; I'm particularly fond of Iris, a soft, shimmery plum that instantly adds depth to my eyelids.
**COVERGIRL**
Eye Enhancer Wrap Tubing Mascara in Midnight Stride
On days when I don't feel up to applying eye shadow (which happens frequently, I must admit), I turn to a colorful mascara. It’s arguably the simplest way to enhance your eye look, and I always receive compliments when I wear blue, green, or burgundy mascara. This new navy mascara from Covergirl has been my recent favorite, not only for its vibrant color but also for its lightweight, long-lasting formula. (It's confirmed to be sweat- and snow-resistant!)
**MAKEUP BY MARIO**
Ethereal Eyes Eyeshadow Palette: Nature
Famed makeup artist Mario Dedivanovic recently shared how to achieve chic "cinnamon spice" holiday eyes, with his new Ethereal Eyes Eyeshadow Nature Palette being the highlight. This collection of shimmering gold, bronze, and copper shadows is all you need for a flawless eye look that appears as though you spent hours getting ready.
**Dior**
Rouge Dior Forever Liquid Sequin Duo
An essential from the Dior holiday collection, this dual-ended liquid lipstick has been a lifesaver for my holiday party lineup. It boasts impressive longevity and a finish that adds just the right amount of sparkle to my usual red lip. I adore the creamy, shimmery pigment alone, but adding the clear gloss on top adds a lovely, juicy finish.
**r.e.m. beauty**
Wicked Cherry Blossom Blush Palette
Typically, I shy away from cool-toned, bubblegum pink blushes (I prefer mauve hues), but something about the holiday season encourages me to brighten up. I’m enamored with the two shimmery shades in this three-pan palette. Pro tip: Blend them on both your lids and cheeks for a charming "sugar plum fairy" effect.
**CHANEL**
Baume Essentiel Multi-Use Glow Stick
While not a new product, I can't help but highlight the iconic Baume Essentiel from Chanel. It’s my go-to for achieving angelic skin all year round, particularly during the busy holiday season.
**Violette_FR**
Lune Liner Multichrome Liquid Eyeliner
French makeup artist Violette Serrat has crafted the most user-friendly (and stylish) glittery liquid eyeliners available. With an ultra-fine precision tip and multichrome pigments, it’s nearly impossible to apply it incorrectly. Each shade appears slightly different depending on the light; for instance, this fiery orange can show up as green or gold based on your surroundings.
**Gucci**
Luminous Face & Lip Gloss
This versatile makeup product is my multitasking favorite—it can be used for glossy lids, radiant cheekbones, and shiny lips. The balm gives an immediate glow without shimmer, making it seem as if your features are naturally illuminated by candlelight.
**ANFISA Skin**
Ân-Gloss Ceramide Lip Tint - Spice Cake
This sheer, rosy brown tint pairs well with everything. I love it for everyday wear (it’s perfect with a mauve lip
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As a Beauty Editor who appreciates clean, minimal glam, here are 14 stylish holiday makeup products I'm considering for 2025.
Celebratory yet subtle.
